Camp Creek State Forest | Hinton

Camp Creek State Forest is a protected area located near Hinton, West Virginia. It encompasses approximately 5,730 acres of mixed hardwood forest.

Visual Characteristics

The forest is characterized by rolling hills and steep ravines covered in dense deciduous trees, primarily oak and hickory. The Camp Creek itself is a clear, shallow stream with a rocky bed. Elevation ranges from approximately 1,000 feet to over 2,000 feet above sea level.

Location & Access Logistics

Camp Creek State Forest is situated 10 miles southwest of Hinton, West Virginia. Access is via State Route 20. Turn onto Forest Road 101 (gravel) for access to the main forest area and campground. Parking is available at designated trailheads and the main picnic area. No public transport services the forest.

Historical & Ecological Origin

Established in 1937, Camp Creek State Forest was created to reforest and manage land previously impacted by logging. Ecologically, it is part of the Appalachian mixed mesophytic forest region, supporting a diverse range of flora and fauna.

Key Highlights & Activities

Hiking is available on 35 miles of marked trails, including the 10-mile Ridge Trail and the 3-mile Waterfall Trail leading to Campbell Falls. Fishing is permitted in Camp Creek. Primitive camping is available at the main campground. Birdwatching is a common activity due to the forest's biodiversity.

Infrastructure & Amenities

The main picnic area offers covered shelters and picnic tables. Restrooms with flush toilets are available at the picnic area and campground. Camp Creek Campground has 20 primitive campsites. Cell phone signal is intermittent to non-existent within the forest boundaries. No food vendors are located within the forest; nearest services are in Hinton.

Best Time to Visit

For hiking and general exploration, the months of April through October offer the most favorable weather. Fall foliage viewing is optimal in late September and October. Campbell Falls is most impressive following periods of significant rainfall, typically in spring and early summer. Mid-day offers the most direct sunlight for photography, though early morning and late afternoon provide softer light.

Facts & Legends

A local legend speaks of a hermit who lived deep within the forest in the early 20th century, subsisting entirely off the land. His exact whereabouts and fate remain a subject of local folklore. The forest is known for its population of black bears.

Nearby Landmarks

• Bluestone State Park (15km Southwest)
• Pipestem State Park (20km Southwest)
• New River Gorge National Park and Preserve (40km Northeast)
• Hinton Historic District (10km Northeast)