Gov. Justice checks new stargazing cabins at Coopers Rock State Forest

BRUCETON MILLS, WV (LOOTPRESS) – On Monday, Governor Jim Justice visited a construction site at Coopers Rock State Forest to check on the progress of the new stargazing cabins.

The cabins will open this fall, and reservations will start being accepted on August 1st.

The new cabins are part of a list of more than $200 million of improvements made to West Virginia’s state parks system under the governor’s leadership.

“This is another exciting day for West Virginia with the addition of these incredible cabins,” said Governor Justice. “Coopers Rock State Forest is a gem within our state park system, and as we continue to draw visitors from around the world, it’s important that we maintain and enhance its amazing condition and reputation. This stunning park is among our most frequently visited, and the projects we’re working on here will further put this forest on the map.”

The five new stargazing cabins are located along the main ridge between Raven Rock and the main overlook; seven more cabins will be added in spring 2025. The cabins will be perfectly positioned to provide guests the opportunity to enjoy one-of-a-kind stargazing with the cabin’s fully equipped telescopes.

Brett McMillion, the Director of Natural Resources, stated, “It’s amazing to see these improvements coming to fruition at Coopers Rock State Forest. Governor Justice has brought the West Virginia State Parks system to much higher levels with his vision and guidance.”

Investments have been made across the state at the state’s 36 parks, nine forests and three rail trails. The projects include creating two new state parks, Cacapon Resort State Park’s new lodge, renovations at every lodge and cabin in the system, hundreds of new campsites built or upgraded, new recreational facilities, and much-needed infrastructure upgrades systemwide.

“We continue to see folks interested in unique lodging, and I’m thrilled to see our state’s first stargazing cabins nearing completion,” said West Virginia Tourism Secretary of Tourism Chelsea Ruby. The investments made at Coopers Rock State Forest have been substantial with over $15 million at the state forest.

Upgrades include new stargazing cabins, a modern 25-site RV campground, a new laundry and firewood facility, and major water and wastewater treatment improvements. All contracts awarded in the recent investments have been awarded to West Virginia firms and companies.

The first five cabins and new campground to Wolfes Excavating in Clarksburg. The additional seven cabins are being built by Zetti Contracting LLC in Morgantown. Engineering was completed by CEC with architectural work performed by ZMM.