Cabins Near Holly River State Park
Tucked away in a remote Appalachian valley, Holly River State Park is one of West Virginia’s best-kept secrets. Surrounded by dense forests and cool mountain air, the park is known for its stone-and-timber cabins, quiet trails, and cascading waterfalls. It’s an ideal destination for travelers craving solitude and rustic charm.
Whether you’re seeking a digital detox or a cozy nature retreat, the best cabins near Holly River State Park offer peaceful seclusion and front-door access to some of the state’s most untouched landscapes.
🗺️ Driving Distance to Holly River State Park
The park is located in Hacker Valley, WV, one of the most remote corners of central West Virginia:
- From Charleston, WV: ~2.5 hours (110 miles)
- From Morgantown, WV: ~2.5 hours (115 miles)
- From Roanoke, VA: ~3 hours (150 miles)
- From Pittsburgh, PA: ~3.5 hours (165 miles)
The journey itself is scenic—expect winding mountain roads, roadside waterfalls, and scenic overlooks along the way.
🏡 Best Cabins Near Holly River State Park
Choose from on-site handcrafted cabins surrounded by forest or private homes nearby with a rustic mountain feel.
1. Holly River State Park Cabins (On-Site)
- Constructed in the 1930s by the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC), these cabins exude character and craftsmanship
- Built from native stone and timber with open fireplaces, screened porches, and hardwood floors
- Configurations include one- to three-bedroom options
- Furnished with full kitchens, hot water, and heating for spring through fall use
- Cabins are spaced apart, providing privacy and immersion in the woods
- Guests often comment on how quiet and rejuvenating their stay is—cell service is nonexistent, and Wi-Fi is minimal
- Book via WV State Parks
2. Mountain View Cottage – Hacker Valley (Airbnb)
- Clean, cozy 2-bedroom home on private land just 10 minutes from the park entrance
- Full kitchen, gas grill, smart TV, washer/dryer
- Firepit with mountain views and plenty of space to roam
- Great for couples, small families, or weekend getaways
- View on Airbnb
3. Secluded Creekside Cabin – Diana, WV (VRBO)
- Private cabin nestled along a bubbling creek with large porch and outdoor seating
- One-bedroom plus loft, sleeps up to 6
- Pet-friendly with fenced yard and walking access to woods and water
- Peaceful, quiet, and a 25-minute drive to Holly River State Park
- View on VRBO
🧭 Things to Do at Holly River State Park
Spanning 8,100 acres, the park offers dozens of ways to connect with nature. With no crowds and little development, this is pure West Virginia wilderness.
🔹 Hiking & Waterfall Trails
- Over 40 miles of marked trails ranging from easy riverside strolls to challenging mountain ascents
- High Rock Trail: A short but steep climb to a 2,800-foot overlook—breathtaking in fall
- Potato Knob Trail: Moderate loop trail through old-growth forest
- Shupe’s Chute Trail and Upper Falls Trail: Two of the most scenic routes for waterfall seekers
- Trails are well-marked but primitive—expect stream crossings and rugged terrain
🔹 Fishing, Wading & Swimming
- Holly River and its tributaries are stocked with rainbow and brown trout in spring and fall
- Families love wading in shallow bends and skipping stones by the old mill
- The park’s quiet fishing holes offer some of the most peaceful angling in the state
🔹 Wildlife & Nature Watching
- Deer, black bear, fox, and raccoons are common
- Birders may spot pileated woodpeckers, barred owls, and scarlet tanagers
- April through June is peak wildflower season, with trillium, lady’s slipper, and rhododendron blooming throughout the park
🔹 Recreation & Amenities
- Tennis courts, volleyball, and horseshoe pits
- Nature center with educational exhibits and ranger-led programs (in season)
- Playground and picnic shelters perfect for families
- Seasonal Holly River Restaurant offers down-home meals and West Virginia hospitality
🔗 Booking Tips & Travel Info
🔸 Best Time to Visit
- Spring (April–June): Cool weather, wildflowers, and flowing waterfalls
- Summer (July–August): Great for families, swimming, and shady forest hikes
- Fall (September–October): Stunning foliage, crisp air, and fewer crowds
- Winter: Cabins are closed, but nearby VRBO options may be available
🔸 What to Bring
- Food and cooler (grocery options are 40–60 minutes away)
- Flashlights, headlamps, and backup batteries (no outdoor lighting at cabins)
- Hiking poles, bug spray, and weather-appropriate clothing
- Books, games, and anything you need for unplugged evenings
Booking Resources:
🌿 Plan Your Forest Hideaway
If tranquility is what you crave, Holly River State Park is where you’ll find it. With handcrafted stone cabins, forest-lined trails, and the sound of the river as your soundtrack, this is a true Appalachian retreat.
Book one of the cabins near Holly River State Park, grab your hiking boots and a good book, and let the mountains work their magic.
