Lost River State Park wilderness guide
State Park · WV
Horseback%20Riding Guide

Lost River State Park

Lost River State Park in West Virginia offers stunning landscapes and a rich array of outdoor activities, making it a perfect destination for nature lovers.

State Park3,9344+ Trails
DesignationState Park
Total Wilderness Area3,934
Elevation / TerrainDiverse Wilderness
Field Editorial Guide

About Lost River State Park

Lost River State Park in West Virginia offers stunning landscapes and a rich array of outdoor activities, making it a perfect destination for nature lovers.

Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage

Lost River State Park, located in the eastern panhandle of West Virginia, encompasses over 3,900 acres of scenic Appalachian wilderness. The park is renowned for its lush forests, rolling hills, and rich biodiversity which provides an idyllic backdrop for a variety of outdoor recreational opportunities. Established in 1937, the park also has historical significance, being home to the Lighthorse Harry Lee Cabin, a restored historic landmark associated with a Revolutionary War hero. Visitors can enjoy over 20 miles of hiking trails that provide access to picturesque views and peaceful surroundings. The ecology of the park is diverse, supporting a wide range of flora and fauna, including several species of birds, making it a haven for birdwatchers. Popular activities include hiking, horseback riding, and swimming in the outdoor pool, all of which attract visitors looking for both adventure and relaxation. The park's remote setting provides a peaceful retreat away from the hustle and bustle of city life.

Field Guide · State Park
Adventure Destinations

Notable Destinations Near Lost River State Park

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

Key Wilderness Highlights

✦ Cranny Crow Overlook – offering sweeping views of the park and surrounding areas✦ Lighthorse Harry Lee Cabin – a historical site linked to the American Revolution✦ Big Ridge Trail – perfect for exploring the park's diverse ecosystem✦ Hidden hiking paths leading to secluded areas of natural beauty
Wilderness Visuals & Gallery

Visual Guide to Lost River State Park

Wilderness Recreation

Outdoor Adventures in Lost River State Park

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 Lost River State Park.

Passes & Fees

Entrance Requirements & Interagency Passes

No entrance fee required, open to the public.

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 Lost River State Park

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

Lost River Campground

Located within the park, offering easy access to trails and facilities with modern amenities.

Reserve on Recreation.gov
Adventure Basecamps

Gateway Towns Near Lost River State Park

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

Mathias, West Virginia
⌖ 2.43 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Mathias, West Virginia

Mathias, WV offers solitude and scenic beauty for outdoor adventure lovers. Hike and camp under the stars, fish in clean streams, or birdwatch in serene parks.

Spring and Fall
Explore Town
Moorefield, West Virginia
⌖ 11.57 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Moorefield, West Virginia

Moorefield, West Virginia is a quiet mountain town offering hiking, paddling, fishing, and backpacking adventures in the Potomac Highlands. It's a great basecamp for those seeking peaceful river access and forest exploration.

Spring through Fall
Explore Town
Petersburg, West Virginia
⌖ 14.71 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Petersburg, West Virginia

Petersburg, WV offers peaceful access to the Appalachian Trail and South Branch Potomac River, perfect for hiking, canoeing, and fishing in a serene Appalachian setting.

Spring through Fall
Explore Town
Edinburg, Virginia
⌖ 17.60 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Edinburg, Virginia

Edinburg provides outdoor lovers a quiet gateway to Shenandoah National Park’s hiking, paddling on the South Fork Shenandoah River, and scenic biking through the valley. Ideal for those seeking peaceful adventures and natural beauty year-round.

Spring through Fall
Explore Town
Wardensville, West Virginia
⌖ 18.81 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Wardensville, West Virginia

Wardensville is a serene small town offering direct access to the George Washington National Forest and the gentle Cacapon River. It’s a perfect base for hiking, paddling, fishing, and mountain biking amid West Virginia’s scenic wilderness.

Spring through Fall
Explore Town
Timberville, Virginia
⌖ 19.55 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Timberville, Virginia

Timberville offers peaceful outdoor activities including paddling the North Fork Shenandoah River, easy hiking, and scenic road biking. A quiet getaway for nature lovers looking to explore rural Virginia’s river valleys and forests.

Spring through Fall
Explore Town
Expert-Led Wilderness Expeditions

Guided Experiences in Lost River State Park

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

Hand-Led Ride for Kids
ADVEXPEDITION
Fort Valley, Virginia
HorseADV Bookable

Hand-Led Ride for Kids

A gentle, hand-led 30-minute pony ride through shaded forest and a creek crossing in Fort Valley, Virginia — perfect for kids age six and up. Limited groups and trained handlers make this an easy, memorable introduction to horses and the Shenandoah outdoors.

HorseAges 6 and under • Advance Reservation RequiredCertified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip
3 Hour Rafting Trip Luray Caverns Combo
ADVEXPEDITION
Luray, Virginia
RaftingADV Bookable

3 Hour Rafting Trip Luray Caverns Combo

Experience the thrills of whitewater rafting on Shenandoah River with Shenandoah River Outfitters. Perfect for all skill levels, this 3-hour trip combines adrenaline with scenic views that highlight Virginia’s natural beauty.

RaftingAges 3+ • Up to 6 People per Raft • Caverns Special Rates: includes trip and caverns ticketsCertified Outfitter
From$41
Book Trip
Whitewater Bealer's Ferry to Burner's Bottom 11 mile
ADVEXPEDITION
Luray, Virginia
Water ActivitiesADV Bookable

Whitewater Bealer's Ferry to Burner's Bottom 11 mile

Join Shenandoah River Outfitters for an 11-mile whitewater rafting trip through scenic Virginia. Experience exhilarating rapids, stunning views, and expert-guided safety through scenic river landscapes.

Water Activities5 Hours Class I-II Rapids Some Experience PreferredCertified Outfitter
From$57
Book Trip