West Virginia

West Virginia, nestled in the Appalachian region of the United States, captivates with its diverse landscapes, from rolling hills to rugged mountains. This webpage centers on free camping opportunities within the Mongonghella and George Washington National Forests, inviting adventurers to embrace the state’s natural wonders. With a focus on hiking, biking, kayaking, and more, West Virginia offers a spectrum of outdoor activities. The majestic forests and pristine waterways of the national forests provide an idyllic backdrop for camping and exploration. From traversing scenic trails to embarking on cycling escapades, the state caters to various interests. West Virginia’s tranquil lakes and rivers beckon kayakers and water enthusiasts, ensuring unforgettable experiences. Amidst the Appalachian splendor, West Virginia stands as an outdoor haven where nature’s beauty and recreational pursuits harmonize to offer an enriching and memorable adventure.

https://www.wikiwand.com/en/West_Virginia

Monongahela National Forest – The Gateway

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Monongahela National Forest – The Gateway

Driving east of Elkins along what is today a quiet stretch of “Old Route 33,” motorists pass between columns of the stone portal known as the “Gateway to the Monongahela National Forest.” Built without fanfare and handcrafted by the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) in 1934, this unique, one-of-a-kind, stone structure quickly became a prominent roadside landmark and recognizable Monongahela National Forest icon.

National forest gateways or portal signs were designed to be both boundary marker and roadside architecture, advertising to the motoring public that they were entering or leaving federally managed forest lands. Monongahela National Forest planned to build more, similarly-styled, stone gateways along highways across the Forest. However, none, other than the one east of Elkins, were ever built. In 1935 standardized plans for portal design, adopted by the agency’s Eastern Regional Office, changed the Forest’s plans.