A photographers playground during fall, this hidden gem of a park offers exciting activities all year.
What to know before visiting Babcock State Park in West Virginia
Babcock State Park is located less than 20 miles north of New River Gorge National Park and 60 miles east of Charleston, West Virginia. The park is comprised of 4,127 acres of land, however the most popular destination within the park is the Glade Creek Grist Mill. Glade Creek Grist Mill is a functional replica of Cooper’s Mill which once stood on the grounds and is a massively popular location with landscape photographers and artists.
Babcock State Park offers around 17 miles of hiking trails within the park in addition to fishing, boating, kayaking and geocaching.
Traveling to, and getting around, Babcock State Park
Address: 486 Babcock Road, Clifftop, WV 25831
Travelers flying into the area can fly to Yeager Airport in Charleston, West Virginia and then drive 67 miles to Babcock State Park.
Babcock State Park is free to visit and the visitor center is located at the Glade Creek Grist Mill parking lot.
The Babcock State Park Campgrounds is located 3 miles north of the Grist Mill parking lot off Clifftop Road (RT 11).
Babcock State Park throughout the year
The park office and Glade Creek Grist Mill are both accessible throughout the year, however various parts and roads within the park close during the winter months.
During the Fall season, especially during peak fall colors, the Glade Creek Grist Mill becomes a prime destination for artists and landscape photographers. Finding a parking spot can be difficult during this time as spaces are limited with not much room for overflow parking.
Park Services and Emergency Contact
In case of an emergency: Dial 911
Park Information…………………………….. 304.438.3004
Campground Reservations…………….. 304.438.3004
Staying Connected at Babcock State Park (Cellular and WiFi Availability)
Cellular reception was spotty at the Glade Creek Grist Mill area due to the area being located within a gorge area. Driving a few miles up the road puts cell phones back in range of service. The campgrounds offer wifi availability for visitors as well.
Camp Supplies and Grocery Stores Near Babcock State Park
Warning: Babcock State Park is a distance away from any town offering groceries and supplies. The nearest town Rainelle, WV and is located around a 30 minute drive from the campgrounds. Firewood can be acquired by numerous locations near the campgrounds.
Babcock State Park Camping Guide – Campgrounds
Babcock State Park Campground – 52-unit campgrounds including electric and full hookup spots. Location: 38.00696, -80.94865 Phone: 330.438.3004