Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage
Bluestone State Park, located in southern West Virginia, is a popular destination within the Appalachian region. This state park sprawls across the rugged terrain at the confluence of the Bluestone and New rivers. Established in 1950, the park covers over 2,100 acres and offers visitors a wide array of recreational activities. The focal point of the park is the Bluestone Lake, a 2,040-acre reservoir created by the Bluestone Dam on the New River. This lake provides opportunities for boating, fishing, and swimming. The park is also surrounded by lush mixed hardwood forests, making it a haven for wildlife enthusiasts and those interested in birdwatching. Its trail system offers a variety of hiking experiences, with each trail providing unique viewpoints of the lake and the surrounding forested hills. The park's history is rooted in the efforts of conserving the beauty and ecological significance of the region, along with providing a space for public recreation. Bluestone State Park also plays a role in the conservation of native plant and animal species, acting as a refuge for many that thrive in its naturally preserved landscape.
