Bluestone National Scenic River

Bluestone National Scenic River in West Virginia is a stunning natural attraction known for its scenic beauty and rich historical background. Located in the southern part of the state, the river stretches for approximately 10 miles and is surrounded by lush forests, rocky cliffs, and crystal-clear waters.

The river's historical significance dates back centuries, as it played a crucial role in the region's early settlement and economic development. Native American tribes, including the Delaware and Shawnee, utilized the river as a transportation route. In the 18th century, European explorers and fur traders began to navigate its waters, facilitating the growth of trade and commerce in the area.

Visitors to Bluestone National Scenic River can partake in numerous outdoor activities. The river is ideal for kayaking, canoeing, and paddleboarding, offering adventurous opportunities to explore its gentle rapids and serene stretches. Fishing enthusiasts can try their luck in the river's abundant waters, which are teeming with various species of fish, including bass and trout.

Hiking is a popular activity in the surrounding area, with several scenic trails that wind through the adjacent woodlands. These trails provide opportunities for nature observation, birdwatching, and photography, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the area's natural splendor.

Aside from the river itself, there are several nearby attractions that visitors can explore. Bluestone State Park offers camping facilities, swimming, and picnicking areas, making it an ideal spot for a family outing or a weekend getaway. For history enthusiasts, the nearby town of Hinton provides a glimpse into the past with its well-preserved historic district, featuring charming architecture and a range of shops and restaurants.

In conclusion, Bluestone National Scenic River in West Virginia is a captivating destination that combines awe-inspiring natural beauty with a rich historical background. Whether it's enjoying water activities on the river, hiking through the surrounding forests, or exploring nearby attractions, visitors to this area will find themselves immersed in a truly memorable experience.

Bluestone National Scenic River is nestled within the picturesque state of West Virginia. Located in the southern part of the state, this stunning river flows through a rugged and scenic landscape characterized by rolling hills, lush forests, and rocky gorges. The river is a tributary of the New River, winding its way through the heart of the southern West Virginia coalfields region. With its remote and unspoiled surroundings, the Bluestone National Scenic River offers visitors a tranquil and natural retreat, showcasing the inherent beauty of the state's geographical diversity.

Address & Contact

3405 Pipestem Drive
Pipestem, WV 25979
Driving Directions
Phone: 304-465-0508
Web: Link

Weather & Seasonality

The best time to visit Bluestone National Scenic River for pleasant weather and outdoor activities is in the months of May, June, and July. During these months, the average maximum temperatures range from 70 to 79 degrees Fahrenheit, providing comfortable conditions for outdoor exploration. Additionally, the average minimum temperatures during this period stay above 58 degrees Fahrenheit, ensuring mild evenings. The average monthly precipitation ranges from 3.7 to 4.6 inches, indicating a moderate amount of rainfall, which should not significantly disrupt outdoor plans.

Activities

Some of the activities you can do in Bluestone National Scenic River are: Guided Tours Junior Ranger Program Wildlife Watching Birdwatching Biking Hiking Boating Fishing Hunting and Gathering Hunting Paddling Canoeing Kayaking Mountain Biking Freshwater Fishing

Topics

Learn about these topics at Bluestone National Scenic River: Animals Birds Geology Fish River and Riparian Rock Landscapes and Features Trails Forests and Woodlands Mountains Deciduous Forests Farming and Agriculture

Visitor Centers

Sandstone Visitor Center

Sandstone Visitor Center is located in New River Gorge National Park and Preserve near Sandstone, WV, and is the primary National Park Service information site for Bluestone National Scenic River. Information can also be obtained at Bluestone State Park and Pipestem State Park, both which border Bluestone National Scenic River.

Passport Stamp locations

The following locations have passport stamps for your "Passport to Your National Parks" booklet: Sandstone Visitor Center.

Campsites within or near Bluestone National Scenic River

This park doesn't have any campsites within its boundaries (or we haven't found them yet)).

Hotels within or near Bluestone National Scenic River

Econo Lodge Near Bluefield College

Located in Bluefield, Econo Lodge Near Bluefield College is a 4-minute drive from Sharp Hospital and 6 minutes from Bluefield State College. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 3400 E Cumberland Rd, Bluefield, West Virginia 24701
Web: Link

Quality Hotel and Conference Center

Located in Bluefield, Quality Hotel and Conference Center is connected to the convention center, within a 10-minute drive of Mercer Mall and Sharp Hospital. Featured amenities include a 24-hour business center, complimentary newspapers in the lobby, and dry cleaning/laundry services. Planning an event in Bluefield? This hotel has facilities measuring 3948 square feet (355 square meters), including conference space. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 3350 Big Laurel Hwy, Bluefield, West Virginia 24701
Web: Link

Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, Princeton, WV

Located in Princeton, Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, Princeton, WV is in the mountains, within a 15-minute drive of Princeton Railroad Museum and Concord University. Featured amenities include a 24-hour business center, complimentary newspapers in the lobby, and a 24-hour front desk. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 111 Halls Ridge Rd, Princeton, West Virginia 24740
Web: Link

Comfort Inn

Located in Bluefield, Comfort Inn is a 1-minute drive from Jefferson National Forest and 6 minutes from Fincastle Country Club. Featured amenities include a business center, a 24-hour front desk, and a safe deposit box at the front desk. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 38769 Governor G C Peery Hwy, Bluefield, Virginia 24605
Web: Link

Economy Inn

Located in Bluefield, Economy Inn is within a 10-minute drive of Jefferson National Forest and Bluefield State College. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 3206 East Cumberland Road, Bluefield, West Virginia 24701
Web: Link

Rock Ridge Rentals LLC

Located in Pipestem, this cabin is a 2-minute drive from Pipestem State Park and 9 minutes from Pipestem Visitor Center. Featured amenities include a computer station and a 24-hour front desk. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 114 Rock Ridge Road, PO Box 162, Pipestem, West Virginia 25979
Web: Link

MacArthur Inn

With a stay at MacArthur Inn in Narrows, you'll be a 3-minute walk from New River and within a 5-minute drive of Jefferson National Forest. Featured amenities include dry cleaning/laundry services and a 24-hour front desk. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 117 MacArthur Lane, Narrows, Virginia 24124
Web: Link

Twin Falls Resort State Park

When you stay at Twin Falls Resort State Park in Saulsville, you'll be in a regional park and steps from Twin Falls State Park. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: RR 97, Saulsville, West Virginia 25882
Web: Link

Bluefield Inn

Located in Bluefield, Bluefield Inn is within a 5-minute drive of Sharp Hospital and Jefferson National Forest. Featured amenities include a business center, dry cleaning/laundry services, and luggage storage. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 2109 Jefferson Street, Bluefield, West Virginia 24701
Web: Link

Three Rivers Studios

Located in Hinton, Three Rivers Studios is within a 5-minute drive of New River Gorge National Park and Preserve and Bluestone Lake. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 211 3rd Avenue, Hinton, West Virginia 25951
Web: Link