Champe Rocks facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Champe Rocks |
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 Location in West Virginia
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| Location | Pendleton County, West Virginia, USA |
| Nearest city | Seneca Rocks, West Virginia |
| Range | Appalachians |
| Coordinates | 38°53′29″N 79°18′42″W / 38.89139°N 79.31167°W |
| Climbing type | traditional and sport crag |
| Height | 330 feet |
| Ratings | Mixed leaning towards expert |
| Grades | I and II |
| Rock type | Tuscarora quartzite |
| Quantity of rock | Month's worth |
| Development | Developed |
| Cliff aspect | East and west |
| Season | Spring to fall |
| Ownership | National Forest (but most direct access is through private land) |
| Camping | None |
| Classic climbs | Psychotic Reaction (5.9), Fintasia (5.11+), Enchampement (5.11+) |
| Stars |   |
Champe Rocks are two big rock formations in Pendleton County, West Virginia, USA. You can easily see them from West Virginia Route 28. They are part of the Spruce Knob-Seneca Rocks National Recreation Area. These rocks, along with the famous Seneca Rocks, are some of the biggest examples of white or gray Tuscarora quartzite in eastern West Virginia. They are a popular challenge for people who enjoy rock climbing.
Champe Knobs is the name of the hills from which Champe Rocks rise. These knobs are connected to the River Knobs. The River Knobs include other similar "razorback" ridges or "fins". Examples are Judy Rocks at Judy Gap and Nelson Rocks at Nelson Gap. Champe Rocks stand 2,257 feet (about 688 meters) above sea level.
The Story Behind Champe Rocks
Champe Rocks are named after a brave soldier named John Champe (1752–1798). He was a Sergeant Major during the American Revolutionary War. He became a secret agent to try and capture the American traitor General Benedict Arnold.
George Washington himself chose Champe for this important mission. Champe pretended to join the British side. He came very close to catching Arnold. However, Arnold changed his plans at the last minute, and the mission had to be called off. After the war, Champe, who was born in Loudoun County, Virginia, settled down near these rocks.
Visiting Champe Rocks
Champe Rocks are located inside the Spruce Knob-Seneca Rocks National Recreation Area. You can clearly see them from West Virginia Route 28. However, there is no direct public path to reach the rocks. To get there, you would need to cross private land. Because of this, not many people climb Champe Rocks.
