Beartown State Park

Beartown State Park is a natural area in Pocahontas County featuring massive sandstone boulders, deep crevices, and cliffs shaped through geological processes over millions of years. The roughly 45-acre park displays impressive rock formations that visitors can explore on protected walkways.

The Nature Conservancy acquired the land in 1970 through a donation from Mrs. Edwin Polan in memory of her son who died in Vietnam. This gift enabled the long-term preservation of this geologically significant site for future generations.

The park takes its name from cave openings where black bears sheltered through winter and from narrow passages between rocks that resemble streets in a town.

A half-mile boardwalk guides visitors through the area while protecting the natural surroundings and providing access to rock formations. Wearing comfortable shoes and staying on marked paths helps ensure safety and preserves the environment.

Erosion and faulting of Pottsville Sandstone created a network of passages between rock walls that form a natural stone maze. This system developed over millions of years as natural forces broke the stone into unexpected patterns.

Location: West Virginia

Inception: 1970

Elevation above the sea: 1,035 m

Website: https://wvstateparks.com/park/beartown-state-park

GPS coordinates: 38.05220,-80.27560

Latest update: December 6, 2025 17:41