Where Legends Ride: Hidden History and Epic Adventures in Southern West Virginia

Jason Macumber

August 22, 2025

Sunrise over a lush, green forest with rolling hills, mist in the valleys, and a wooden observation tower on a grassy clearing in the foreground.

Southern West Virginia is a wild mix of scenic rivers, lush forests, and rich history. From epic off-roading and hiking trails to storied coal towns and quirky roadside stops, it’s the perfect playground for adventurers, history buffs, and road trip lovers alike.

Heritage Farm Museum & Village

A rustic wooden church with a cross on top sits among gardens and split-rail fences, surrounded by green trees and historic buildings in a rural setting.

Just outside Huntington, this Smithsonian-affiliated site brings Appalachian heritage to life with recreated log cabins, artisan demos, vintage vehicles, and seven themed museums—including a Children’s Activity Center and Transportation Museum. Visitors can zipline, hike, or ride UTVs through forest trails. Kids love the petting zoo, and families can stay overnight in rustic cabins or the Barn Retreat Center.

Rustic Ravines (Genoa)

Two people sit at a rustic wooden bar inside a cozy cabin with wood-paneled walls, hanging lights, and a couch with a white blanket in the foreground. The atmosphere is warm and inviting.

Just 27 miles south of Huntington in the Allegheny foothills sits Rustic Ravines, a wooded playground set on 300 acres with access to 50,000 acres of ATV trails. Book one of their unique rentals like an Amish‑crafted log cabin (Genoa or Frontier), a yurt, or even a historic lodge. Outdoor fun includes kayaking, archery, hiking, fishing, and even event spaces like a party barn or gazebo. It’s the perfect spot for a weekend getaway.

Morrison’s Drive Inn

A classic throwback right from 1947, Morrison’s Drive Inn is the ultimate retro pit stop. Famous for juicy hot dogs, crispy chicken, and homemade strawberry pies, it’s the kind of spot where you won’t leave hungry, and the locals treat you like family. Don’t skimp on the chili (it’s award-winning), and the jalapeno poppers are a real hit.

Chief Logan State Park & Hatfield‑McCoy Trail Access

Aerial view of a large complex with multiple buildings surrounded by lush green hills and winding roads at sunset, with a dramatic sky and mountains in the distance.

Located just minutes from the Hatfield‑McCoy ATV trail system, Chief Logan State Park is the ideal base camp for trail riders. The trailhead literally connects to the lodge parking lot. Stay overnight at one of the campgrounds, spend an afternoon fishing, or just lounge by the pool (there’s even a water slide). Visit during the spring, when wildflowers create an explosion of color throughout the park.

The Coal House (Williamson)

A statue of a Native American stands in a circular stone fountain in front of the Tug Valley Chamber of Commerce, housed in a black stone building next to a light-colored, multi-story structure.

In a one‑of‑a‑kind architectural flex, The Coal House in Williamson was built in 1933 entirely of local coal masonry, 65 tons, no less. Now home to the Tug Valley Chamber of Commerce, this structure is uniquely West Virginia and the heart of the region’s coal mining legacy. It’s also listed on the National Register of Historic Places, adding a layer of heritage prestige to its unique architecture.

West Virginia Mine Wars Museum

Museum exhibit wall titled “Life in the Coal Camps,” displaying a grid of numbered metal tags, mining tools, vintage photos, and artifacts related to coal mining life.

In the heart of Matewan, the West Virginia Mine Wars Museum brings to life one of the most powerful labor movements in U.S. history. Located at the site of the 1920 battle that sparked a national uprising, the museum honors the 10,000+ coal miners who stood up for justice, dignity, and human rights. Explore immersive exhibits filled with rare artifacts, personal stories, and powerful visuals that connect this local struggle to a global fight for workers everywhere.

Hatfield & McCoy Moonshine Distillery

In the mountains of Gilbert, this distillery crafts authentic moonshine using a family recipe passed down for generations, made from 100% West Virginia‑grown corn. Sample unique flavors like peanut butter and habanero moonshine, tour the distillery and see how the magic happens and make sure to stop by the gift shop for merch like glasses, hats and mugs. It’s a great way to experience a taste of Appalachian heritage.

Ashland ATV Resort

Two people wearing helmets drive an off-road vehicle on a dirt road past rustic wooden cabins, surrounded by trees with autumn foliage under a sunny sky.

If you’re hitting the Hatfield‑McCoy Trails, Ashland ATV Resort makes a solid home base. It’s set up with riders in mind, offering A‑frame cabins that are both practical and comfortable. Prefer camping? There’s space for that too. With an on‑site convenience store and easy access to the trails, it’s a low-key spot for off-roading enthusiasts.

Indian Ridge Trail (Hatfield‑McCoy Trail System)

A curved railway bridge crosses a lush, tree-filled river valley with vintage cars driving on it, set against green mountains under a cloudy sky.

The Indian Ridge Trail System is part of one of the biggest connected sections of the Hatfield-McCoy Trails, linking up with the Pocahontas, Pinnacle Creek, and Warrior systems. You’ll find a mix of trails here, from easy scenic rides to tighter, more technical routes. It’s a great way to explore southern West Virginia on four wheels. Ride into nearby ATV-friendly towns like Northfork and Keystone for food, fuel, and a chance to kick back between runs.

Campbell Falls at Camp Creek State Park

Several people stand and sit on layered rocks beside and above a small, gentle waterfall in a forested area with lush green trees surrounding a clear, shallow stream.

Just a short hike off Camp Creek Road, Campbell Falls offers a charming 15‑foot cascade that flows into a swimming hole, making it an ideal summer road trip spot. The path to the falls is short and easy to navigate, so you can easily stop for a swim and get back to your travels.