Mineral County Between River and History

From green lowland valleys, Mineral County’s landscape stretches to the Allegheny Front, which rises 3,000 feet above the North Branch of the Potomac. Rivers, lakes, and historic sites offer different ways to shape your stay: you may be interested in activities on the water or in learning about the region’s architectural and transportation history.

River, Lake, and Wildlife

Jennings Randolph Lake extends for 5.5 miles along the North Branch of the Potomac between Garrett County, Maryland, and Mineral County, West Virginia. The lake provides habitat for birds, other animals, and fish. Boat ramps for fishing and boating, beach and picnic areas, and the Robert W. Craig Campground are among the recreational options there.

At the fishing access near Barnum, there is about a mile of riverbank along the North Branch of the Potomac. The river is regularly stocked with brook trout, brown trout, rainbow trout, and golden trout; stocking schedules may vary. If you’re planning a rafting trip, Barnum Whitewater Area is the starting point for a seven-mile journey on the North Branch. The route includes Class I, II, and III rapids. Release conditions and dates may vary, so check them before making your plans.

In the western Potomac watershed, Clyde’s offers kayak and tube rentals, shuttle services, introductory lessons, and themed outings. Confirm arrangements before you arrive if you plan to take advantage of any of these offerings.

Trails Through Landscape and History

Larenim Park is located at the site of the Barrens and includes more than three miles of hiking trails. Public hunting is also permitted there with a license. Another way to discover historic sites is the Mineral County Heritage Trail: this self-guided driving route can be traveled on any day of the year. Individual buildings along the route may not be open.

The history of the Northwestern Turnpike can be explored at Traveller’s Rest. Built in 1928 as a stagecoach stop serving the road, the building houses an exhibit on the Twin Mountain and Potomac Railroad. Ashby’s Fort Museum is dedicated to the first fort on the Virginia frontier, whose construction George Washington ordered during the French and Indian War.

Regional architectural history is also reflected in various places. Claysville Church is the oldest timber-frame church building in Mineral County. During the Civil War, it served both the Union and the Confederacy; people with differing sympathies were welcome there. Eusebia Presbyterian Church is one of the county’s two oldest active congregations.

The three-story Carskadon Mansion, with eight bedrooms, was built around 1866 and was formerly the home of Thomas R. Carskadon. It was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 2002. Stewart’s Tavern is a historic log cabin that now serves as a museum. The Old Furnace, meanwhile, is the only iron furnace in Mineral County.

Collections and Local Traditions

The Mineral County Historical Society Museum displays Oliver Frederick Liller’s complete uniform and personal military kit from World War I. Another exhibit area, Funeral Corner, includes a coffin receiving basket, funeral home memorabilia, a portable autopsy table, and a typical mourning dress. The Nancy Hanks Cabin is a replica of the cabin where Nancy Hanks was born.

The Gohongaronta Gallery houses a scale replica of the Wright brothers’ 1903 airplane, which made the first powered flight possible. The replica is 40 percent of the original size. The annual Mineral County Fair showcases livestock exhibits by young people from the county and their agricultural skills. Two different sugar shacks produce West Virginia maple syrup and offer tours year-round; confirm tour arrangements before you arrive.

For your hotel stay, river activities, scenery, and regional history can each provide a different focus. Consider which of these interests you want to shape your trip, and check variable release dates or tour arrangements in advance if your plans depend on them.

Discover more destinations: Keyser, Cabell County, Summers, Marion, Monongalia, Wetzel County, Fayette County, Hancock County.

For the overview of the wider region: West Virginia.