Coopers Rock State Forest facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Coopers Rock State Forest |
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Cheat River from Raven Rock Overlook
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 Coopers Rock State Forest
Location in West Virginia
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| Location | West Virginia, United States |
| Area | 12,747 acres (51.59 km2) |
| Elevation | 2,159 ft (658 m) |
| Operator | West Virginia Division of Natural Resources and West Virginia Division of Forestry |
Coopers Rock State Forest is a huge forest in West Virginia, covering about 12,747 acres. It's located in Monongalia and Preston counties. This beautiful forest sits right next to Cheat Lake and the amazing Cheat River canyon. The Cheat River is well-known for exciting whitewater rafting adventures in the eastern United States. It's a popular spot for outdoor fun and exploring nature.
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Forest History and Development
Coopers Rock State Forest got its unique name from an old legend. The story says that a man, who was a "cooper" (someone who makes barrels), was hiding from the law near what is now a famous overlook. He continued his trade, making barrels in his secret mountain spot. He sold them to people in nearby towns. This cooper lived and worked in the forest for many years.
Much of Coopers Rock was built and improved by the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) between 1936 and 1942. The CCC was a program during the Great Depression that put young men to work on important projects. Many of the sturdy picnic shelters and other buildings they made from American chestnut wood are still standing today. These historic structures are even listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
How Coopers Rock is Managed
The Coopers Rock forest is split into two parts by Interstate 68. The northern part of the forest is managed by the forestry program at West Virginia University. This area is less developed, meaning it has fewer buildings or paved paths.
The southern part of the forest is managed together by the West Virginia Division of Natural Resources and the West Virginia Division of Forestry. This section is more developed because it's a major place for people from the Morgantown area to visit and enjoy outdoor activities.
Fun Things to Do at Coopers Rock
Coopers Rock offers many different ways to have fun outdoors. The forest is open all year. However, the main entrance to the southern part of the park closes from December 1 to March 31 each year. During winter, visitors need to park at the first lot off I-68 and walk into the park.
Amazing Overlooks
Main Overlook Views
The forest is most famous for its stunning views of the Cheat River in Cheat Canyon. You can drive right up to the main overlook. This spot was also built by the CCC. It gives you fantastic views of the Cheat River, the Snake Hill Wildlife Management Area across the river, and Morgantown to the west. The overlook is on a large rock connected to the land by a footbridge. While the main overlook has steps, there is another nearby overlook that is easier to access for everyone.
Raven Rock Overlook
For a more natural view, many people enjoy the hike to Raven Rock. This hike is about 2 miles long. At Raven Rock, you'll find large boulders and a point that sticks out into the canyon. There's also a high-voltage power line crossing the Cheat River here. If you hike to this spot with pets or younger children, please be careful. There are no railings, so it's important to watch your step and stay away from the edges.
Hiking Adventures
Coopers Rock has a great network of nearly 50 miles of hiking trails. These trails are generally good for cross-country skiing during the winter months.
One trail, about 3 miles long, leads to the former Mont Chateau State Park at Cheat Lake.
The Rock City Trail takes you through "Rock City." This is a long, narrow space between tall rock formations, almost like a natural canyon.
Rock Climbing Fun
Coopers Rock is a popular place for bouldering. Bouldering is a type of rock climbing done on large rocks or "boulders" without ropes. There are many different climbing challenges here. It's also a good spot for top-roping, where a rope is set up from above for safety. However, adding new permanent anchors (bolting) is not allowed.
Camping at McCollum Area
The McCollum Camping Area is a campground at Coopers Rock with 25 campsites. It's open from April 1 to October 31. All campsites have electric hookups, and there's a showerhouse in the campground. You can also get Wi-Fi access if you are staying at a registered campsite.
Henry Clay Iron Furnace History
Besides the overlooks, the Henry Clay Iron Furnace is one of the most well-known parts of the forest. You can reach it by hiking the Clay Furnace or Clay Run trails. This furnace was built between 1834 and 1836. It was used to make "pig iron," which is a basic type of iron.
The furnace could make about 4 tons of iron every day! It employed around 200 people and operated until 1847. The Henry Clay Iron Furnace was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1970, recognizing its importance in history.
