Cass Scenic Railroad and Lost River State Parks to receive upgrades, including new campgrounds

CHARLESTON, WV (WVNS) — An announcement came from Governor Justice regarding developments at Cass Scenic Railroad State Park and Lost River State Park today, noting investments to improve tourism and outdoor recreation in West Virginia.

Cass Scenic Railroad State Park will add its first campground, involving approximately 100 campsites, more modern amenities, and preservation efforts. Lost River will add 35 campsites with a more modern style to improve its existing retreat areas. These investments total approximately $13 million and both projects are estimated to be completed by mid-2025.

The camping projects are an extension of the ongoing investment and improvement in West Virginia State Parks. During his time in office, Governor Justice has overseen over $250 million worth of enhancement projects that have reached completion.

I’m incredibly proud of the hard work going into the campground upgrades at Cass Scenic Railroad State Park and Lost River State Park. Each day, the world continues to discover the world-class recreational opportunities in West Virginia. By improving our campgrounds and preserving the rich history of our parks, we’re inviting more visitors to see for themselves why our state pars are the best in the country.

Jim Justice | Governor of West Virginia

Cass Scenic Railroad State Park will soon have a campground located on the water, which will offer 100 available campsites equipped with water and electrical services. It will also feature two bathhouses, check-in stations, an RV dump station, and feature paved roads. The $8,034,810 construction project began in August 2024 and is projected to be finished by July of 2025.

The new campground will be located on the site of the former Deer Creek Extract Plant, which was crucial during World War I, producing and supplying hemlock and spruce bark extracts for tanneries. Though the plant closed in 1928 and many of the surrounding buildings deteriorated, signage and efforts to preserve the foundations of the buildings will be taken that will honor the history of the area.

Lost River State Park will also experience upgrades with an increase in campsites, featuring water access and electrical services, an RV dump station, as well as paved roads and utility access. The investment in this project totals $4,863,423 with a projected completion of June 2025. Lost River State Park already offers access to 25 cabins, a pool, and scenic forest landscapes. Visitors to this park can engage with nature and its serene beauty.

For more information regarding Cass Scenic Railroad State Park, Lost River State Park, and other parks in the Mountain State, visit their website here .

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