Kumbrabow State Forest wilderness guide
State Forest · WV

Kumbrabow State Forest

Kumbrabow State Forest offers a serene retreat in West Virginia, known for its lush forest, stunning vistas, and diverse wildlife.

State Forest9,4744+ Trails

Designation

State Forest

Total Wilderness Area

9,474

Elevation / Terrain

Diverse Wilderness

Field Editorial Guide

About Kumbrabow State Forest

Kumbrabow State Forest offers a serene retreat in West Virginia, known for its lush forest, stunning vistas, and diverse wildlife.

Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage

Kumbrabow State Forest, located in the mountainous region of West Virginia, encompasses over 9,474 acres of rich hardwood forest. Established in 1934, it stands as one of the state's most remote and beautiful recreational areas, characterized by rugged terrain, cascading waterfalls, and vibrant seasonal foliage. Home to dense stands of red spruce and a variety of wildlife, including black bears and white-tailed deer, the forest provides a genuine escape into nature. During the spring and summer months, visitors can enjoy a network of hiking trails that reveal panoramic views of the Allegheny Highlands, while in fall, the forest transforms into a brilliant canvas of colorful leaves. Kumbrabow's history includes roots in the logging industry, but today it's primarily a destination for outdoor enthusiasts seeking solitude and adventure. Key attractions include Mill Creek Falls and several rustic camping areas, drawing campers, hikers, and anglers alike.

Field Guide · State Forest
Adventure Destinations

Notable Destinations Near Kumbrabow State Forest

Scenic viewpoints, outdoor landmarks, and notable points of interest within 60 miles.

Key Wilderness Highlights

✦ Mill Creek Falls - a stunning waterfall accessible via a short hike✦ Elk habitat offering unique wildlife viewing opportunities✦ Cleveland Run – a prime fishing spot for native brook trout✦ Hidden mossy trails showcasing untouched forest beauty
Wilderness Recreation

Outdoor Adventures in Kumbrabow State Forest

Explore curated guides for top outdoor sports, trail networks, and wilderness activities.

The Ranger Station

Visitor Logistics & Essential Planning

Everything you need to know about entrance passes, seasons, visitor centers, road transit, and wildlife safety in Kumbrabow State Forest.

Passes & Fees

Entrance Requirements & Interagency Passes

No entrance fees; free access year-round.

Wilderness Checklist

Carry paper topographic map & compass in remote zones.
Store all food and scented items in approved bear canisters.
Check wildfire / smoke advisories before backcountry departure.
Pack out everything you pack in (Leave No Trace).
Wilderness Stays

Camping & Overnight Stays in Kumbrabow State Forest

Frontcountry developed campgrounds, backcountry wilderness permit guidelines, and starry-night camping advice.

Adventure Basecamps

Gateway Towns Near Kumbrabow State Forest

Stay, dine, and gear up in these mountain towns and scenic basecamps surrounding the park.

Huttonsville, West Virginia
⌖ 8.76 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Huttonsville, West Virginia

Huttonsville, WV is your gateway to the majestic Monongahela National Forest. Enjoy hiking, backpacking, and fishing with vibrant landscapes and abundant wildlife.

Spring and Fall
Explore Town
Durbin, West Virginia
⌖ 12.38 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Durbin, West Virginia

Durbin is a peaceful mountain town offering rugged hiking, thrilling whitewater kayaking, and scenic train rides. Surrounded by Monongahela National Forest, it’s a great base for exploring Appalachian wilderness and seasonal snow sports.

Late Spring through Fall
Explore Town
Snowshoe, West Virginia
⌖ 13.21 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Snowshoe, West Virginia

Snowshoe, WV offers thrilling outdoor adventures with world-class skiing, diverse mountain biking, and scenic hiking. Perfect for enthusiasts ready to explore the Allegheny Mountains.

Bartow, West Virginia
⌖ 14.84 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Bartow, West Virginia

Bartow offers access to pristine mountain forests, cascading waterfalls, and peaceful river corridors. Ideal for hiking, mountain biking, paddling, and backpacking, it’s a quiet hub for exploring West Virginia’s Monongahela National Forest.

Late Spring through Early Fall
Explore Town
Green Bank, West Virginia
⌖ 17.01 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Green Bank, West Virginia

Green Bank, West Virginia, offers peaceful mountain hiking, exceptional stargazing, and abundant wildlife watching in the National Radio Quiet Zone. Surrounded by protected forests, it’s a secluded spot for nature and astronomy lovers.

Spring through Fall
Explore Town
Hacker Valley, West Virginia
⌖ 18.55 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Hacker Valley, West Virginia

Hacker Valley is a peaceful West Virginia mountain town ideal for hikers, paddlers, and backpackers seeking quiet trails and rivers surrounded by forest and wilderness.

Spring through Fall
Explore Town
Expert-Led Wilderness Expeditions

Guided Experiences in Kumbrabow State Forest

Explore scenic backcountry routes and epic wilderness adventures with certified local mountain guides, naturalists, and outfitters.

Paddle the Quiet Shoreline: A Day at Lake Moomaw
ADVEXPEDITION
Covington, Virginia
KayakADV Bookable

Paddle the Quiet Shoreline: A Day at Lake Moomaw

Operated by Alleghany Outdoors, this all-day rental offers kayaks, canoes, paddleboards and a 10 x 10 floating dock on Lake Moomaw; this guide explains pickup, delivery and multi-day options.

KayakPT2HCertified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip