Coopers Rock State Forest Overlook
Bruceton Mills, WV
Sandstone cliffs above the Cheat River gorge, reached by a short walk from the main parking area. Come on a clear morning for the best light, and wear sturdy shoes on the rocky boardwalk and trails.
Coopers Rock State Forest covers 5,160 hectares (12,747 acres) in Monongalia and Preston counties and is cut through by Interstate 68. The main overlook looks out over the Cheat River, the Snake Hill Wildlife Management Area and Morgantown. According to tradition, the name goes back to a cooper who hid from the law here and kept making barrels in his mountain hideout.
If you want to see more, hike to Raven Rock, about 3 km (2 miles) away, with a rougher view into the gorge. In all, nearly 80 km (50 miles) of trails wind through the forest. The Civilian Conservation Corps built much of the facilities in 1936–1942. The main entrance is closed each year from December 31 to March 31 (as of October 2026); then you have to park at the lot by I-68 and walk. Allow an hour for the overlook; sturdy footwear is advisable.
- Nearest town
- Bruceton Mills, WV
- Category
- Scenic viewpoints
- GPS
- 39.6531, -79.7872
Hours, fees and access change. Confirm with the operator or park before you go.
Good to know
Best time to go
The most pleasant months are usually May–June and September. Still fine, with some compromises, in July–August and October. Cold, short days in December–February. (Estimate from long-term temperature averages, terrain and pass seasons)
Nearby
Campsites nearby
- Marvin's MountaintopCampsite6 mi from Coopers Rock State Forest OverlookTentsCaravans
- KOA HolidayMotorhome stopover13 mi from Coopers Rock State Forest Overlook · 137 pitchesTentsMotorhomesElectricityShowersToiletsWaste disposalDogs allowedWi-Fi
- Benner's Meadow Run Camping & CabinsCampsite17 mi from Coopers Rock State Forest OverlookTents
- Kentuck CampgroundCampsite22 mi from Coopers Rock State Forest OverlookTentsCaravansElectricity
- Herrington Manor State Park CabinsCampsite23 mi from Coopers Rock State Forest Overlook
- Double G RV ParkCampsite24 mi from Coopers Rock State Forest OverlookCaravansElectricity
All campsites in West Virginia · Campsite data: © OpenStreetMap contributors, ODbL 1.0 · Updated October 3, 2026
FAQs
Where is Coopers Rock State Forest Overlook?
Coopers Rock State Forest Overlook is in Bruceton Mills, WV, at GPS 39.6531, -79.7872. It is about 26 mi from Oakland.
Can you camp near Coopers Rock State Forest Overlook?
Yes. The nearest campsite listed in OpenStreetMap is Marvin's Mountaintop, about 6 mi away; within 25 mi there are 14 campsites and motorhome stopovers.
What is there to see near Coopers Rock State Forest Overlook?
Places worth a stop nearby: Fort Necessity National Battlefield (15 mi), Ohiopyle State Park (22 mi), Swallow Falls State Park (22 mi) and Fallingwater (24 mi).
When is the best time to visit Coopers Rock State Forest Overlook?
The most pleasant months are usually May–June and September. Still fine, with some compromises, in July–August and October. (Estimate from long-term temperature averages, terrain and pass seasons)