Day Trips from Parkersburg
← All Parkersburg day tripsDay Trips from Parkersburg: Waterfalls & Swimming Holes
The best waterfalls and swimming holes within driving distance of Parkersburg, WV. Dramatic cascades, hidden gorges, and swimmable falls that reward the drive. Trail info, drive times, and ratings included.
8 waterfalls near Parkersburg
Big waterfall and swimming hole
36000-, 36050
Just 2 hrs 38 min from Parkersburg, rated 5.0 stars, a popular destination with plenty to see and do.
Best time to visit: Spring and fall offer mild weather and smaller crowds at most attractions.
Conkles Hollow State Nature Preserve
Rockbridge, OH 43149
Just 1 hr 21 min from Parkersburg, rated 4.9 stars by 2,671 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Lower Waterfall
Logan, OH 43138
Just 1 hr 18 min from Parkersburg, rated 4.9 stars, a popular destination with plenty to see and do.
Best time to visit: Spring and fall offer mild weather and smaller crowds at most attractions.
Brush Creek Falls
Athens, WV 24712
Just 2 hrs 40 min from Parkersburg, rated 4.8 stars by 528 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Blackwater Falls State Park
Davis, WV 26260
Just 2 hrs 44 min from Parkersburg, rated 4.8 stars by 6,499 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Cucumber Falls
Dunbar, PA 15431
Just 2 hrs 28 min from Parkersburg, rated 4.8 stars by 308 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Cathedral Falls
Gauley Bridge, WV 25085
Just 1 hr 57 min from Parkersburg, rated 4.8 stars by 2,457 visitors, packed with outdoor activities and adventure.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for most outdoor activities. Winter for snow sports where available.
Dundee Falls
OH 44624, USA
Just 1 hr 42 min from Parkersburg, rated 4.6 stars by 917 visitors, packed with outdoor activities and adventure.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for most outdoor activities. Winter for snow sports where available.
Frequently Asked Questions About Waterfalls Day Trips from Parkersburg
What are the best waterfalls near Parkersburg, WV?
The best waterfalls near Parkersburg range from roadside cascades to backcountry falls requiring a hike. Check the cards above for top-rated options with drive times and real visitor ratings.
Are there swimmable waterfalls near Parkersburg?
Some waterfalls near Parkersburg have designated swimming areas at their base. Always check current conditions and posted rules before swimming. State park waterfalls with established trails are generally the safest options.
How hard are the hikes to waterfalls near Parkersburg?
Difficulty varies widely. Some waterfalls near Parkersburg are visible from parking areas or short boardwalks. Others require moderate to strenuous hikes of 2-6 miles round trip. Check individual trail descriptions before heading out.
When is the best time to see waterfalls near Parkersburg?
Spring (March-May) typically offers the highest water flow after snowmelt and rain. Waterfalls are beautiful year-round though. Winter ice formations are dramatic, and fall foliage framing a waterfall is hard to beat.
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