Amidst the hustle and bustle of daily life, it’s easy to get lost in the chaos and forget nature’s wonders. If you’re craving an escape from the monotony of city life, look no further than Greenbrier State Park.
Nestled in the heart of south-eastern West Virginia, this 5,200-acre forest is a haven of natural beauty, offering a wide range of recreational activities like fishing, swimming, hiking, and mountain biking.
With its rich history dating back to the 1700s and proximity to charming towns like White Sulphur Springs and Lewisburg, Greenbrier State Park promises an unforgettable adventure that will leave you renewed and rejuvenated.
How To Reach Greenbrier State Park?
Greenbrier State Park is in Caldwell, West Virginia. The park can be easily accessed by car from several major regional cities. If you drive from the east or west, take Interstate 64 to exit 175 (White Sulphur Springs).
If driving from the north, take Interstate 81 to exit 225 (Staunton). From there, take Route 11 south to Lexington, Virginia, and then Route 60 west to the park.
If you are flying to the area, the nearest airports are Greenbrier Valley Airport (LWB) in Lewisburg, West Virginia, and Roanoke-Blacksburg Regional Airport (ROA) in Roanoke, Virginia. Both airports are approximately one hour’s drive from the park.
Activities To Do at Greenbrier State Park
Whether you’re looking for a relaxing day in nature or an adventurous outdoor excursion, there’s something for everyone. Here are some of the top activities to do at Greenbrier State Park:
1. Hiking
The park boasts over 15 miles of scenic trails that wind through the lush forests and meadows, offering stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. The Kate’s Mountain Loop Trail is a popular option that takes you to the top of Kate’s Mountain, offering breathtaking panoramic views
2. Biking
Greenbrier State Park is a great destination for cyclists, with miles of trails and roads to explore. The nearby Greenbrier River Trail is popular for its flat terrain and picturesque scenery.
3. Fishing
The park’s lake is stocked with various fish species, making it a popular angler spot. Whether you prefer fly fishing or spin fishing, you will surely find a great catch at the park.
4. Swimming
The park’s swimming area is a popular spot for people to cool off on a hot summer day. With clear, refreshing water and a sandy beach, it’s the perfect place to relax and soak up the sun.
5. Camping
They offer various camping options, from tent sites to cabins, making it easy to enjoy an extended stay in the great outdoors. The park’s campground features hot showers, a playground, and a camp store.
6. Horseback riding
You can also enjoy guided horseback rides to explore the park’s scenic trails on horseback. It’s a great way to experience the park’s natural beauty from a new perspective.
7. Hunting
The park allows hunting in designated areas during specific seasons. Hunters can pursue a variety of game, including deer, turkey, and small game.
8. Museums & Historical Sites
If you are interested in history, explore nearby attractions like the White Sulphur Springs National Fish Hatchery, Organ Cave, and Historic Lewisburg. These sites offer a glimpse into West Virginia’s rich cultural heritage and natural history.
Accommodation
Greenbrier State Park offers two accommodation options for visitors:
Cabins
The park has several cozy and rustic cabins that provide a comfortable stay. These cabins have amenities such as electricity, heating, and air conditioning. They also have a fully-equipped kitchen, a bathroom, and a living area with comfortable furniture. Depending on your group size, you can choose from one, two, or three-bedroom cabins.
Camping
The park offers camping facilities for those who want to be closer to nature. They have several campsites that can accommodate tents, trailers, and RVs. The campsites have picnic tables, fire rings, and grills. There are also modern restrooms and shower facilities available for campers.
Trail You Must Explore
Greenbrier State Park offers a variety of trails that are worth exploring for nature enthusiasts and hikers. Here are some of the top trails to check out:
- Kate’s Mountain Loop Trail – This 3.3-mile loop trail offers scenic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. It is a moderate to strenuous hike that takes approximately 2-3 hours to complete.
- Old Field Loop Trail – This easy 0.7-mile loop trail takes you through a field once used for farming. Perfect for birdwatching and wildlife spotting.
- Black Bear Trail – This 1.5-mile trail takes you through a hardwood forest, offering opportunities for wildlife sightings. It is a moderate hike that takes approximately 1-2 hours to complete.
- Rocky Ridge Trail – This 1.7-mile trail offers a challenging hike through rocky terrain. It offers scenic views of the surrounding forests and is a popular trail for birdwatching.
- Holsapple Trail – This 1.4-mile trail is an easy hike through a hardwood forest, with wildlife spotting and birdwatching opportunities.
Check out some of the best Greenbrier State Park photos to have an idea before you go.
Greenbrier State Park Camping
The park offers camping options for those who want to experience the beauty of nature up close. There are 16 standard campsites and 6 tent-only campsites available for reservation. The campsites have picnic tables, fire rings, and bathhouse access with hot showers and flushing toilets.
In addition to the standard and tent-only campsites, the park also offers six cabins that can accommodate up to four people each. The cabins have electricity, heat and air conditioning, beds, and a kitchenette with a microwave, mini-fridge, and sink. Outside, each cabin has a picnic table, a fire ring, and a grill.
Whether you prefer tent camping or the comforts of a cabin, Greenbrier State Park offers a peaceful and scenic setting for a camping adventure. Reservations for campsites and cabins can be made online or by calling the park office.
Greenbrier State Park Reviews
Thankfully, online reviews for Greenbrier State Park are generally positive, with many visitors praising the park’s natural beauty, well-maintained trails, and range of recreational activities. Some reviewers have also mentioned the park staff’s helpfulness and the facilities’ cleanliness.
You can look for more detailed reviews on TripAdvisor, Yelp, and Google.
Places To Visit Nearby
There are several interesting places to visit near Greenbrier State Park. Here are some of the top recommendations:
Moncove Lake State Park
This park presents a plethora of recreational activities including hunting, fishing, swimming, boating, hiking, and birdwatching. Whether you plan to visit alone, with family or friends, the park’s pristine natural environment is perfect for spending quality time and creating everlasting memories.
The Greenbrier
Known as “America’s Resort,” this National Historic Landmark has been a cherished getaway since 1778. The Greenbrier is famous for its mineral springs, championship golf courses, boutiques, fine dining, and recreational activities.
Organ Cave
This National Natural Landmark is a must-visit for anyone interested in exploring caves. With over 45 miles of mapped passages, Organ Cave holds the distinction of being the second-longest cave of East Coast. It is a fascinating destination that offers you a unique opportunity to explore its underground marvels.
Lost World Caverns
By making a descent of 120 feet beneath the earth’s surface, you can explore a vast wonderland of stalactites and stalagmites in these caverns. Guided tours are available with advance reservations.
Historic Lewisburg
This charming town is filled with buildings of architectural interest dating back to 1784. Explore the city’s rich history and culture through various museums and exhibits, including those highlighting colonial life and the Civil War Battle. The city also offers a variety of unique shopping experiences with antique and specialty shops, as well as quaint inns, bed & breakfasts, and art galleries to enjoy.
Budget
The ideal budget for a visit to the park would depend on various factors such as the length of stay, accommodation type, activities planned, and personal spending habits.
Camping fees range from $20-$30 per night, depending on the campsite and season. Cabins can cost between $85-$150 per night, depending on the season and amenities. You can also opt for nearby hotels or vacation rentals, ranging from budget to luxury options.
Regarding activities, hiking, swimming, and exploring the park’s trails are free of charge. However, some activities, such as horseback riding, fishing, and golfing, may have associated fees. Additionally, you should budget for food, transportation, and any souvenirs or additional expenses.
Overall, a budget of $100-$150 per day for most accommodations, activities, and food would be reasonable. However, it can vary based on your personal preferences.
Final Thoughts
Greenbrier State Park offers a delightful escape into nature, where you can relax, unwind, and engage in various outdoor activities. The park’s natural beauty, rich history, and diverse wildlife provide a unique and immersive experience for people of all ages.
Whether you prefer camping, hiking, fishing, or simply enjoying the tranquillity of the park’s scenic beauty, they got something for everyone. So, plan your visit to this picturesque park and experience the enchanting beauty of nature at its finest.
