Explore West Virginia’s Natural Wonders Through Its State Parks and Tourism Impact, Here’s All You Need to Know

Published on December 13, 2025

West Virginia state parks have provided a service to protect and preserve the beauty of the Mountain State for over five decades, and likewise contributed toward economic gains and community quality of life. Scott Durham is a long-time leader within the West Virginia State Park system that has watched these parks act not just as places of recreation, but of vital importance to the tourism, economy, and natural stewardship of the Mountain State. In a recent conversation, Durham reflected on the greater impacts of the state park system and noted that the advantages extend far beyond the scenic overlooks and cabin reservations commonly associated with the parks.

The Hidden Value of State Parks: Beyond the Obvious

West Virginia’s state parks are often perceived as simple getaway spots, offering outdoor recreation like hiking, swimming, and camping. However, Durham emphasized that their true value extends far beyond these surface-level experiences. The parks provide essential support to individuals dealing with life’s challenges, offering quiet, calming spaces for reflection and rejuvenation.

“Many people who are facing tough times find solace in our parks,” Durham explained. “Whether it’s the quiet of a trail or the peacefulness of a lake, these places offer a way for individuals to overcome obstacles and regain emotional stability.”

Even for residents who might not actively visit parks, knowing that they are there provides a significant boost to the community’s overall quality of life. The availability of these natural sanctuaries contributes to a general sense of well-being and emotional health, a factor that often goes unnoticed but is essential in creating vibrant, happy communities.

State Parks as Catalysts for Physical and Mental Health

In addition to offering peace and solitude, West Virginia’s state parks contribute to physical health by providing spaces for exercise, such as hiking, biking, and swimming. The parks’ varied landscapes create opportunities for outdoor activities that can help reduce the risk of diseases such as heart disease, diabetes, and cancer. Studies show that spending time outdoors, particularly in natural environments, can lower stress levels, boost mood, and improve mental clarity.

Durham highlighted how parks allow visitors to not only reconnect with nature but also with themselves. “A state park is a place where we can re-create ourselves,” he said. “It’s about more than just physical health; it’s about emotional restoration.” This aspect is particularly significant in a time when mental health awareness is gaining traction, and nature therapy is recognized for its therapeutic benefits.

Fostering Adventure, Education, and Family Connections

State parks also play an essential role in personal development and education. Durham pointed out that the parks offer adventures for all levels, whether it’s a short, relaxing hike or a more challenging outdoor pursuit. “Even a short hike on a gentle trail is an adventure for some people,” he explained. “Facing the challenge of an adventure brings self-confidence and helps people overcome other challenges in their lives.”

Moreover, state parks serve as open-air classrooms where visitors can learn about the natural world and the environment. Educational programs are commonly offered for school groups, families, and tourists, enabling people to deepen their understanding of nature, wildlife, and conservation efforts. Parks like these provide the perfect venue for hands-on learning, making nature both accessible and educational.

Additionally, the parks offer families an opportunity to bond and create lasting memories. “Families use parks to build traditions,” Durham noted. “From picnics and reunions to playgrounds and nature walks, state parks allow families to connect, strengthen relationships, and make memories that last.”

State Parks as Community Anchors and Economic Drivers

Beyond personal benefits, state parks serve as community anchors, helping to bring people together and creating spaces for social interactions. Whether it’s a church outing, a community picnic, or a chance encounter between visitors, parks foster relationships and create a sense of shared ownership and pride. As Durham explained, “A state park is an attractive and safe place for groups to gather.”

The presence of a well-loved park can also boost community pride. Local residents take pride in knowing that people come from near and far to enjoy the park, which increases their appreciation for the natural beauty and cultural significance of their surroundings. “In West Virginia, the state park system is part of the state’s identity,” Durham added.

Economically, state parks contribute significantly by generating revenue for local businesses. Visitors to the parks support surrounding areas, spending money on lodging, dining, fuel, and retail. Furthermore, as Durham explained, “State parks help stabilize local economies during downturns and accelerate recovery when private tourism rebounds.” During economic hard times, when other sectors may suffer, state parks continue to draw visitors, ensuring a steady influx of revenue into local communities.

Parks as Economic Engines for Tourism

West Virginia’s state parks are critical to the state’s tourism economy, with their economic impact extending well beyond park borders. In 2023, state parks and forests generated over $480 million in direct spending, benefiting local economies. For every dollar spent inside the parks, several additional dollars are spent in nearby communities, further enhancing the local economy.

As tourism becomes an increasingly important part of the state’s economy, Durham highlighted the role of parks in supporting local businesses. Many local businesses depend on park visitors for survival, particularly in rural areas where other sources of income may be limited. Visitors to the parks also contribute to local tax revenues, helping to fund additional community services and infrastructure improvements.

Environmental Stewardship and Long-Term Preservation

State parks do more than offer a place for recreation—they protect some of the state’s most important natural resources. West Virginia’s parks preserve lands of scenic, historic, and ecological importance that might otherwise be lost. This environmental protection ensures that future generations can enjoy these spaces as well.

Durham emphasized the role that parks play in environmental education, with many visitors developing a deeper interest in conservation and environmental stewardship. “Parks inspire people to care for the environment in their everyday lives,” he said. The connection that visitors form with nature often leads to long-term commitments to sustainability and environmental protection.

The Long-Term Impact of State Parks in West Virginia

Looking back on his decades of service, Durham concluded that the true value of West Virginia’s state parks lies in their enduring impact on the state’s people, economy, and environment. “The benefits of West Virginia State Parks are endless,” he stated. They provide not only a space for relaxation and recreation but also a foundation for economic development, environmental protection, and community-building.

State parks continue to be among the most reliable public investments in West Virginia, offering long-term benefits that will last for generations. Whether it’s through promoting health and well-being, fostering a sense of community, or stimulating the local economy, these parks are invaluable assets to both residents and tourists alike.

State Parks as a Cornerstone of West Virginia’s Future

In realizing the growth of tourism in West Virginia, the presence of state parks is a fundamental part of this growth because they have the potential to serve multiple purposes that cut across the healthy living, economic, and preservation components, signifying the importance of state parks to the growth of West Virginia because by harnessing this potential, West Virginia is ensuring that in the future, it has the means to attract people with its natural resources, history, and cultural background.