WILD&WELL
Healthy Public Lands, Healthy West Virginians!
Welcome to Wild and Well! We're all about enjoying West Virginia's amazing public lands while boosting your health. Whether you're hiking through lush forests, paddling down winding rivers, or biking scenic trails, there's something here for everyone. Our goal is to get you outside, active, and loving the natural beauty of our state. Join us in celebrating Healthy Public Lands, Healthy West Virginians, and see how nature can be your best ally in feeling great and staying fit.
"Nature itself is the best physician." — Hippocrates
Engaging in National Public Land Use Day in West Virginia
Saturday, September 27, 2025
Get ready to celebrate our public lands in West Virginia with a series of exciting statewide events! This year, we have a diverse lineup of activities planned across our beautiful state parks, forests, and historical sites. From guided hikes and educational workshops to volunteer clean-up projects and family-friendly festivals, there's something for everyone to enjoy. Join us in preserving and appreciating our natural treasures while connecting with fellow nature enthusiasts. Check out the schedule below to find an event near you and be part of this nationwide effort to support and enjoy our public lands. Click on arrows for additional details!
Blackwater Falls State Park
Naturalist guided 1.5-mile hike on the Shay Trace and Cherry Lane Trails. Meet at the Sled Run parking lot at 10AM.
Cacapon Resort State Park
Laurel Trail 2.5-mile hike. Meet at the Nature Center at 9:30AM.
Canaan Valley National Wildlife Refuge
Volunteer led hike starting at 11:00 AM on the Freeland Boardwalk. The hike will focus on beaver health and include information about personal and community health as well.
Coonskin Park
Starts at 9:00 AM — Enjoy coffee and donuts, help with trail maintenance, grab lunch, and explore Coonskin Park’s trails on foot or bike.
Kanawha State Forest
Davis Creek Trail Interpretive Hike 1.5 miles. Meet at the Nature Center at 10:45AM and hike starts at 11AM.
North Bend State Park
Park Ranger guided hike on the 1.5-mile Fishermans Trail/ Park at Jughandle day use area. Hike starts at 5PM.
Pipestem Resort State
Park clean-up! Join the naturalist for a garbage grab along the Long Branch Lake Shore at 10AM.
Twin Falls Resort State Park
Twin Oaks Trail hike. Hike starts at 8 AM by the trail head.
Tygart Lake State Park
Join the park naturalist for a lake paddle. Bring your own boat, kayak, canoe, or paddle board and meet the Marina Parking Area at 10AM.
Watoga State Park
Naturalist guided hike on the 2.5-mile loop of Bearpen Trail and Lake Trail. Hike starts at 9AM.
Connecting Nature and Health Through Public Lands
Public lands make up approximately 16.5% of West Virginia's total area, creating a patchwork of protected natural spaces for all to enjoy. These treasured natural resources include sprawling national forests, scenic national parks, tranquil recreation areas, vital wildlife refuges, and beloved state parks and forests. These lands aren't just beautiful — they're essential habitats for native wildlife, crucial watersheds that protect our drinking water, and living museums of Appalachian biodiversity.
From the rugged peaks of Spruce Knob to the ancient gorges of New River, these public lands tell the story of West Virginia's unique natural history and cultural heritage. Spending time in these natural spaces isn't just good for the soul; it's also beneficial for your health. Here are some ways that enjoying West Virginia's public lands can enhance your well-being:
Reduced Stress and Improved Mood
Spending time in nature has been shown to lower stress levels and improve mood.
Enhanced Cognitive Function
Exposure to natural environments can boost cognitive function and brain activity.
Lower Risk of Chronic Diseases
Regular physical activity in green spaces can reduce the risk of chronic diseases such as cardiovascular disease.
Better Mental Health
Natural settings can help alleviate symptoms of depression and anxiety.
Improved Physical Activity
Public lands provide ample opportunities for hiking, biking, and other forms of exercise, promoting overall physical health.

Discover the Healing Power of Forest Bathing
Forest bathing, rooted in the Japanese practice of Shinrin-yoku, involves leisurely walks through the forest to immerse oneself in nature's sights, sounds, and scents. This therapeutic practice promotes physical and mental well-being by reducing stress, lowering blood pressure, boosting mood, and enhancing overall health.
Valuing the Economic Impact of Our Public Lands
West Virginia's public lands are not just healthy and beautiful; they're also great for our economy. In 2015, state parks and forests welcomed 7.1 million visitors who spent $226.5 million across the state. Nearly half of this spending—$103.6 million—came from visitors outside West Virginia, bringing new money into our local communities. This spending supported around 3,209 full-time jobs and generated $91.6 million in income for West Virginians.
For every $1 of tax revenue invested in State Parks, an impressive $13.15 was generated in new money that wouldn't exist without these natural treasures. This shows how protecting our public lands can boost our economy and benefit everyone in the Mountain State from an economic perspective.
Source: West Virginia State Parks Economic Impact Study FY15

The Economic Power of America's Public Lands
Public land use in the U.S. significantly boosts the economy by supporting nearly 783,000 jobs and generating $201 billion in economic output annually. Visitor spending in national parks alone contributes $26.4 billion and supports over 415,000 jobs. These lands also drive local economic growth and provide substantial revenue for governments.
Source: National Park Service: Bureau of Land Management
Celebrating and Honoring Our Public Lands
Celebrate and honor the bond between West Virginians and our public lands! Join National Public Lands Day events, volunteer for conservation projects, and enjoy outdoor activities. Share your experiences on social media and support these natural treasures to keep them wild and well for future generations!
Learning More About National Public Lands Day
Annual Celebration of Our Public Lands Use
Held annually on the fourth Saturday of September, National Public Lands Day is the perfect opportunity to get outside and immerse yourself in nature!
Get Outdoors & Be Active
Whether you're hiking scenic trails, paddling along serene waterways, participating in engaging nature events, or doing conservation work there's something for everyone to enjoy.
Learn More About This Important Initiative
Visit the National Park Service and the National Environmental Education Foundation websites to learn more!

Explore and Preserve Our Public Lands
National Public Lands Day, celebrated on the fourth Saturday of September, is the largest single-day volunteer effort for public lands in the U.S. Last year, over 130 national parks hosted events, with 7,600 volunteers contributing 41,500 hours of service. On this day, all national parks offer free admission, encouraging everyone to explore and appreciate these natural treasures.
Source: National Park Service
"For more than a decade, I have had the privilege to witness and participate in the wonderfully communal experience of National Public Lands Day. On this exhilarating day, Americans from all walks of life, families, and neighbors, work side-by-side to give back to the parks and open spaces that give them so much. National Public Lands Day consistently shows that the spirit of goodwill is alive and well." — Diane Wood
Experiencing the Joy of West Virginia's Public Lands
Land Adventures
Explore hundreds of miles of hiking and biking trails winding through ancient forests, across mountain ridges, and beside cascading waterfalls. Set up camp under star-filled skies or enjoy a family picnic in designated recreation areas surrounded by natural beauty.
Water Adventures
West Virginia's rivers, lakes, and streams offer world-class opportunities for kayaking, fishing, and swimming. Experience the thrill of paddling the New River's rapids, cast a line for native brook trout in mountain streams, or cool off in the refreshing waters of Summersville Lake.

Discover the Richness of West Virginia's Public Lands
West Virginia is nearly 80% forested, making it the third most forested state in the U.S. The state boasts 35 state parks and 9 state forests, covering about 164,000 acres, offering a variety of recreational activities. Monongahela National Forest spans nearly a million acres across 10 counties, providing a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. Public lands also include significant historical sites like Prickett’s Fort and Droop Mountain Battlefield. These lands are vital to West Virginia's tourism economy, attracting visitors with their natural beauty and recreational opportunities.
Sources: WV Rivers and WV News
West Virginia State Parks Mountaineer Mile Trails
There is no better place to get outside and get moving than West Virginia’s stunning state parks! When Governor Morrisey launched the Mountaineer Mile to encourage West Virginians to walk at least one mile daily, parks were the perfect place to start. Governor Morrisey has designated a Mountaineer Mile trail in 32 state parks – so browse the routes at the linked WV State Parks Mountaineer Mile website and kick off your journey to better health!
Going for a Walk in the Woods
Complete designated one-mile trails across 32 state parks. Perfect for all fitness levels and ages.
Check-in & Track Progress
Log your miles using the customized AllTrails map to track your progress while contributing to trail usage data.
Improve Health & Wellbeing
Join hundreds of West Virginians already experiencing better physical and mental wellbeing via regular outdoor activity.
Building Partnerships Through Our Public Lands
West Virginia offers abundant opportunities to make a difference on our public lands. Join organized cleanup events at popular recreation sites like Blackwater Falls State Park or Monongahela National Forest. Participate in trail maintenance workshops with the West Virginia Trails Coalition or help with wildlife habitat restoration alongside the West Virginia Division of Natural Resources.
Environmental education programs need volunteers to share conservation knowledge with visitors and school groups. Whether you have just an hour or an entire weekend to give, your contribution matters. Connect with local conservation organizations, state park offices, or federal land management agencies to find the perfect volunteer opportunity that matches your interests and availability!
West Virginia Rivers Coalition
The West Virginia Rivers Coalition champions the health of the state's rivers and streams, empowering communities to protect these vital waterways.
Join their mission to ensure safe, clean water for all West Virginians!
WV Rivers Coalition
West Virginia State Parks System
The West Virginia State Parks System offers a treasure trove of outdoor adventures across 36 state parks, nine state forests, and three rail trails.
Whether you're hiking, camping, fishing, or simply enjoying the natural beauty, there's something for everyone.
West Virginia Trail Association
The West Virginia Trail Association (WV TRAIL) is dedicated to promoting and expanding non-motorized trails across the state. By advocating for trail development, maintenance, and community involvement, they aim to enhance outdoor recreation and support local economies.
West Virginians for Public Lands
West Virginians for Public Lands is dedicated to protecting and enhancing the state's public lands for all to enjoy. By advocating for conservation, organizing community events, and promoting outdoor recreation, they ensure these natural treasures remain accessible and vibrant.