Top hidden gem picnic spots in West Virginia: Study

CLARKSBURG, W.Va. (WBOY) — There’s nothing better than eating lunch with a view and some privacy, and according to a recent survey, three of the best off-grid places for a picnic are in West Virginia.

A survey by Mixbook found the 125 most desirable remote picnic spots, with the West Virginia picks all landing in the top 60. All three of these spots have an iconic view without you having to lug your lunch on long hiking trails.

Harpers Ferry National Historic Park – #25

There are tons of picnic spots with views overlooking the Potomac and Shenandoah or some of West Virginia’s most historic buildings. If you don’t want to pack your own picnic, there are lots of restaurants you can pick up from instead.

If you do want to bring food from home, know that there is very limited parking in the national historic park and you may have to park and take a shuttle .

Babcock State Park – #35

Babcock State Park is home to one of the most iconic views in West Virginia, and it’s right along the road—a perfect place to stop with your lunch. Take a photo with the Glade Creek Grist Mill, which is considered a world-class attraction, according to West Virginia State Parks, or with the Almost Heaven swing in front of it .

For this one, it’s definitely best to bring your own food. The closest restaurants are a decent drive away.

Coopers Rock State Forest – #60

Like Babcock, the biggest attraction at Coopers Rock is visible right as you get out of your car. Sit at the main overlook for some of the best views in the state or enjoy one of the nearby picnic shelters. Don’t forget to take a photo with the Almost Heaven swing there.

Unless you’re planning on driving through Morgantown on your way to pick up food, this is definitely more of a box lunch than a takeout picnic spot.

To see the full list of hidden gems nationwide, click here .

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