Hawks Nest State Park

Known for its awesome whitewater rafting, Hawks Nest State Park offers 270 acres of hiking trails, waterways, and forested landscapes to explore and enjoy. Boat enthusiasts are encouraged to drop anchor in Hawks Nest Lake. This 118-acre body of water offers two concrete boat slips that are available to all park guests free of charge. 

Motorboats are allowed provided that show all appropriate registration. If you'd like to bring your canine along, you may do so at your discretion. Fishing is done on Hawks Nest lake as well, with trout and panfish being among the species available here. Make sure to bring all equipment necessary for the sport, as no rental services exist.

If you've yet to obtain your fishing stamps and state license, you can get both of these at www.wvfish.com or at several West Virginia sporting goods retailers. Canines are allowed to be off leash on the shoreline, provided guests take care of any messes they might leave behind. Make sure to check out Hawks Nest Pool if you'd like to go for a swim. 

The Hawks Nest Pool facilities are open seasonally and are only available to guests staying overnight. Access is provided with a 24-hour keyed entry system, the cards for which are received upon entry. Sorry dog owners, but canines are prohibited from any of the poolside amenities and structures. 

With 11 miles of total trails, Hawks Nest State Park offers guests several chances to get a close-up look a the diverse landscape that surrounds them. These trails vary in difficulty, so make sure to grab a trail make at the park's central office before setting off on your journey. Dogs are welcome to accompany you on your hike as long as they restrained throughout their visit. Guests are asked to clean up any messes that their pets might leave behind.