Georgetown Lake | Anaconda

Information

Landmark: Georgetown Lake
City: Anaconda
Country: USA Montana
Continent: North America

Georgetown Lake, Anaconda, USA Montana, North America

Chief Logan State Park is a state park located in Logan County, West Virginia, approximately 50 miles southwest of Charleston.

Visual Characteristics

The park encompasses 11,137 acres of forested terrain. Dominant tree species include oak, maple, and pine. The terrain features rolling hills and steep ravines, with the Guyandotte River flowing through the western portion of the park. Elevations range from approximately 700 feet along the river to over 2,000 feet on the higher ridges.

Location & Access Logistics

The park is accessible via State Route 10. From Charleston, take I-64 West to US-119 South, then merge onto State Route 10 West. The park entrance is approximately 50 miles from Charleston via this route. Ample parking is available at the park's main facilities, including the lodge, amphitheater, and various trailheads. Public transportation options directly to the park are limited; bus services typically terminate in the city of Logan, requiring a taxi or private vehicle for the final 5 miles to the park entrance.

Historical & Ecological Origin

Chief Logan State Park was established in 1932 on land formerly owned by the Logan Coal and Industrial Company. The park is named after Chief Cornstalk, a leader of the Shawnee tribe who signed the Treaty of Camp Charlotte in 1774. Ecologically, the area is part of the Appalachian mixed mesophytic forest region, characterized by high biodiversity.

Key Highlights & Activities

Activities include hiking on 30 miles of marked trails, ranging from easy nature walks to strenuous climbs. The park features a 1,000-seat outdoor amphitheater hosting summer performances. Fishing is permitted in the Guyandotte River and park lakes. A 50-acre lake offers opportunities for boating (non-motorized) and swimming during designated seasons. Wildlife viewing is common, with deer, turkeys, and various bird species present.

Infrastructure & Amenities

The park provides a lodge with overnight accommodations, a restaurant, and meeting facilities. Restrooms are available at the lodge, picnic areas, and trailheads. Shaded picnic shelters are located throughout the park. Cell phone signal (4G/5G) is generally available in developed areas but can be intermittent in more remote sections. Limited food vendors operate seasonally at the lodge and amphitheater; visitors should plan to bring their own food for most visits.

Best Time to Visit

For hiking and general park exploration, the months of April through October offer the most favorable weather. Spring (April-May) provides blooming wildflowers, while autumn (September-October) offers fall foliage. The best time of day for photography is generally early morning or late afternoon for softer light. Swimming and boating are typically available from Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day weekend.

Facts & Legends

A notable historical artifact within the park is the Chief Logan Monument, dedicated to the Shawnee leader. Local folklore includes stories of the "Whispering Pines," a section of the park where visitors report hearing faint voices carried on the wind, attributed by some to the spirits of early settlers or Native American tribes.