CHARLESTON, W.Va. (WVDN) — West Virginia State Parks officials today announced the opening of the first five stargazing cabins at Coopers Rock State Forest, adding a new way for visitors to stay overnight and experience one of the state’s most popular outdoor destinations.
“Coopers Rock has always been a favorite place for hiking, climbing and camping, and these new cabins give our guests another way to enjoy it by providing unparalleled stargazing opportunities,” said Dillard Price, acting chief of West Virginia State Parks. “With modern amenities and a setting that’s truly Almost Heaven, these cabins will make one of our most iconic forests an even more unforgettable destination.”
Once completed, these stargazing cabins will add a total of 12 cabins and supporting facilities to the forest. Construction on the first five cabins began in March 2023 and was completed in mid-August 2025. Construction on the remaining seven cabins and additional facilities is ongoing and expected to be completed in time for the 2026 summer travel season.
“Recent research shows that travelers are escaping overpopulated, light-filled areas in search of stargazing opportunities,” said West Virginia Tourism Secretary Chelsea Ruby. “West Virginia is one of the best places for stargazing on the East Coast. With three International Dark Sky Parks and plenty of places in the state where clear, starry skies are easily visible, we want to create as many opportunities as possible for travelers to take in the nighttime views from the comfort of their accommodations. These cabins at Coopers Rock are a great step in that direction.”
The design of the A-frame stargazing cabins received a 2025 Honor Award from the American Institute of Architects (AIA) prior to reservations opening. Each cabin features two bedrooms, full furnishings, modern amenities, Wi-Fi and a telescope. Two of the current five cabins are ADA accessible, and sleeping accommodations vary to suit different group needs, including options with king, queen and twin beds.
To book your cabin today, visit WVstateparks.com. For photos of the new stargazing cabins at Coopers Rock State Forest, click here.
About West Virginia State Parks
West Virginia’s state parks and forests are the vacation destination of choice for more than seven million people each year. Made up of 36 parks, nine forests and three rail trails, the West Virginia State Parks system provides endless opportunities for family fun and adventure. Make memories that last forever. Book your adventure at WVstateparks.com.
West Virginia State Parks is managed by the West Virginia Division of Natural Resources, a division of the West Virginia Department of Commerce.
