A Quiet & Colorful Retreat in Almost Heaven
Almost Heaven lives up to its name in autumn — the Top of West Virginia's rolling hills, Tomlinson Run State Park, and quiet country roads offer a genuinely restorative fall retreat.
Discover natural beauty, outdoor adventure, and a rich sense of history at Tomlinson Run State Park. Located at the very top of West Virginia’s Northern Panhandle, the park offers far more than its quiet reputation might suggest, making it an ideal destination for a fall getaway.
Tomlinson Run spans 1,398 acres, and is divided into two distinct landscapes. The wilderness area invites visitors into a world of heavily forested hills, sandstone and shale cliffs, winding streams, and native wildlife. Meanwhile, the developed section provides all the classic amenities that make state park vacations memorable. Guests can enjoy camping, hiking, fishing, boating, disc golf, swimming, and lakeside picnics. Four picnic shelters provide gathering spaces for family reunions and special occasions, while countless scenic spots invite visitors to spread out a blanket and enjoy lunch surrounded by nature.
For those who want to linger a little longer, Tomlinson Run offers some of the most unique overnight accommodations in the state park system. In addition to 48 traditional campsites, the campground features camper cabins and two cozy yurts. These circular, weather-tight structures provide a comfortable introduction to camping, complete with furnishings and outdoor essentials. Whether roasting marshmallows around a campfire, gazing at a sky full of stars, or waking to the sounds of the forest, guests can experience the simple pleasures of life outdoors.
While there are so many amenities available at the park throughout the warmer months, autumn may be the most magical time to visit. As the hillsides transform into brilliant shades of gold, orange, and crimson, hikers can explore scenic trails that range from easy strolls to longer adventures. The popular Laurel Trail follows the peaceful waters of Tomlinson Run Stream through the heart of the wilderness area, while the Big Foot Trail traces the shoreline of the park’s 29-acre lake. Along the Jody Hulka Trail, visitors will find one of West Virginia’s famous “Almost Heaven” swings which offers a perfect spot to pause, take in the colorful scenery, and capture a memorable photo.
The park’s history is woven into the landscape itself. Several grist mills once operated along Tomlinson Run during the 1800s, and in the 1930s the land was transformed into a state park through New Deal-era development projects. Workers from the Works Progress Administration constructed the lake’s dam, and some of the original trails they built remain in use today.
In a region often celebrated for its industrial heritage, Tomlinson Run State Park offers travelers a quiet and authentic “Almost Heaven” escape.