Cranesville Swamp Preserve

Cranesville Swamp Preserve is a wetland located in a natural depression that creates cold temperature patterns throughout the year and supports multiple distinct plant communities. A wooden boardwalk allows visitors to walk through the wettest sections while protecting the sensitive environment from damage.

The Nature Conservancy purchased this site in 1960 and the federal government designated it as a National Natural Landmark four years later. This protection safeguarded an exceptional ecosystem from development and future damage.

The preserve serves as a place where visitors learn about wetland ecology and its role in the Appalachian landscape. People come here to understand how these habitats support rare plants that would not normally grow in this region.

The boardwalk is easy to walk and guides visitors safely through wet sections without special equipment. Visit during spring through fall when the trails are most accessible and conditions are dry enough for comfortable exploration.

The preserve harbors plant species from northern Canada that would not normally survive in this climate. These northern plants thrive here because of the cold pocket created by the natural depression where cool air becomes trapped.

Location: West Virginia

GPS coordinates: 39.53140,-79.48190

Latest update: December 8, 2025 21:03