Blackwater Falls State Park is named for the falls of the Blackwater River whose amber-colored waters plunge five stories then twist and tumble through an eight-mile-long gorge. The "black" water is a result of tannic acid from fallen hemlock and red spruce needles. The falls are one of the most photographed sites in West Virginia. Cool mountain air in Summer, exceptional scenic vistas in Fall, snowy wonderland in Winter, superior fishing and camping opportunities in Spring, make a trip to Blackwater Falls State Park an affordable, family adventure anytime of year. Recreational opportunities include hiking, horseback riding, swimming, boating, fishing, biking, cross country skiing, sledding. The park offers over 10 miles of hiking trails. The Blackwater River is stocked weekly with trout from early spring through early summer. The section of the Blackwater River that runs through the park is a catch and release area. It is stocked regularly with trout. Fishing is also allowed at Pendleton Lake.

• Take the short walk along the Elakala Trail to Elakala Falls where the waters of Shay Run reach Blackwater Canyon's edge and cascade down the vertical wall.
• View Pendleton Falls at a roadside pull-off about 1/2 mile from the Lodge. These Falls are the cascades of Pendleton Run coming from the park's swimming and boating lake.
• Enjoy a view of Blackwater Lodge and Canyon from Pendleton Point Overlook, at the canyon's deepest and widest point.