Oak Hill Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, things to do, where to stay, and how to get around in Oak Hill, West Virginia, with our comprehensive travel guide.


Introduction to Oak Hill

Nestled in the heart of New River and Greenbrier Valleys in West Virginia, Oak Hill is a charming town that boasts of natural beauty, cultural significance, and historic significance. With an abundance of outdoor adventures, scenic views, museums, and historical places to explore, Oak Hill offers an all-around getaway for adventurous travelers. Whether you’re an avid hiker or a history buff, there’s something for everyone in this scenic town.

List of Places to Visit in Oak Hill

If you’re wondering where to start your Oak Hill adventure, here’s a list of the must-visit attractions in town that encompass the natural and cultural charm.

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • New River Gorge National River Visitor Center: This visitor center is the perfect starting point to learn about the natural and cultural history of Oak Hill. Exhibits showcase the area’s unique geology, diverse plant, and animal life, and the river’s significance in shaping the region’s history.

  • Hawks Nest State Park: The Hawks Nest State Park is a historical gem that includes a reconstructed 1930s era pioneer homestead and an exhibit hall that showcases the cultural and natural history of the area.

  • Kanawha Falls: This is a significant historical landmark that was detailed under the survey of George Washington. It is a great location to learn about the history and significance of Kanawha Falls.

Natural Attractions of Oak Hill: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • New River Gorge Bridge: The New River Gorge Bridge is an engineering wonder and the longest steel arch bridge in America. It offers an unparalleled view of the New River Gorge, and adventure seekers can experience scenic views via bungee jumping.

  • Summersville Lake: Summersville Lake is among the cleanest freshwater lakes in the country and is popular among swimmers, anglers, and boaters.

  • Fayetteville Antique Mall: Fayetteville Antique Mall is a charming place to discover antique goods, vintage items, and unique souvenirs.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Oak Hill

Oak Hill is a paradise for hikers and bikers, who can explore the scenic beauty of the area through a network of trails. Here are a few gems:

  • Endless Wall Trail: A moderately challenging trail that runs along the rim of the New River Gorge, offering stunning views of the river and the surrounding wilderness.

  • Kaymoor Miners Trail: This trail takes you through the history of the coal mines of the Kaymoor area as you hike towards the abandoned Kaymoor Mine.

  • Summersville Lake Retreat Trail System: This trail system is a must-visit in the fall season when the autumn colors paint the trees in vibrant colors.

Best Things to Do in Oak Hill: Activities and Tours

Oak Hill offers an array of activities and tours for travelers to explore the town. Here are a few must-try activities:

  • Whitewater Rafting: With the New River flowing straight through town and several outfitters offering trips, whitewater rafting is a top adventure activity that adventurous travelers must try.

  • Paintball: An adrenaline rush awaits paintball enthusiasts in Oak Hill. Skirmish paintball is an excellent family-friendly activity that is a hit among groups and girl’s weekends.

  • Sightseeing Tours: Different tours give travelers a chance to visit the filming location of many famous TV shows and movies filmed in West Virginia.

Week-Long Itinerary for Oak Hill

Here’s an ideal week-long itinerary for travelers to make the most of their Oak Hill Journey:

Day 1: Arrive in Oak Hill and explore the New River Gorge National River Visitor Center, Kanawha Falls, and other cultural landmarks.

Day 2: Hike or bike the Endless Wall Trail, and experience the beauty of New River Gorge Bridge.

Day 3: Explore the local antique markets, shops, and galleries that adorn Oak Hill.

Day 4: Whitewater rafting in the New River led by local outfitters or breath-taking views experienced via hot air balloon ride.

Day 5: Tour the fascinating Hawks Nest State Park, its exhibit hall, and a reconstructed 1930’s-era pioneer homestead.

Day 6: Take a guided sightseeing tour to check out the regional filming locations of popular TV shows and movies, or explore nearby towns in New River Valley.

Day 7: Relax, enjoy the local cuisine, and indulge in the myriad of activities available in Oak Hill.

Food and Drink Scene of Oak Hill

Oak Hill offers a vast range of dining options and bite-size treats. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Pepperoni Rolls: This is an iconic West Virginia food that was concocted by coal miners as an easy to eat meal for their lunch.

  • Biscuits and Gravy: A southern classic, biscuits and gravy is a favorite breakfast staple among locals.

  • Ramp Burgers: Ramps are a type of wild onion that grows in the Appalachians. They are a must-try delicacy served in various forms in Oak Hill.

Local Beverages

  • Ale-8-One: This is a refreshing ginger ale found exclusively in West Virginia.

  • Smooth Ambler Spirits: This is a top-notch distillery in the state, producing various spirits and whiskeys that are perfect for a nightcap.

Where to Stay in Oak Hill: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Oak Hill offers travelers an array of accommodation options that range from quirky hostels to cozy inns and luxurious hotels. Here are a few highly recommended stays:

  • The Historic Morris Harvey House: This Victorian mansion turned bed and breakfast offer guests spacious rooms, comfortable beds, and exceptional amenities.

  • Ace Adventure Resort Yurts: The resort features spacious yurts that combine the comforts of home with the fun of camping.

  • Lafayette Flats Boutique Vacation Rentals: These are boutique properties ideal for travelers looking for unparalleled comfort, style, and charm.

What to Buy in Oak Hill: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Oak Hill offers an array of unique souvenirs and locally made products that visitors can take home to serve as a reminder of their trip. Here are a few items to look for:

  • Coal jewelry: Jewelry made from coal is a unique West Virginia souvenir that serves as an excellent keepsake.

  • Antique finds: Oak Hill is home to a range of antique markets that offer a treasure trove of vintage finds.

Local Culture and Customs of Oak Hill

Oak Hill embraces its Appalachian roots and values local traditions while also welcoming travelers with open arms. The town often hosts festivals and events throughout the year, showcasing its customs, music, and arts.

Best Time to Visit Oak Hill

Oak Hill experiences four distinct seasons, with the best time to visit being in the spring, summer, and fall when the weather is mild, and the outdoors is ideal for different activities.

Do’s and Don’ts of Oak Hill

Here are few things travelers should keep in mind during their trip to Oak Hill:

Do:

  • Research ahead of time: Make sure you do your homework about the town’s cultural landmarks, outdoor activities, and local customs.

  • Respect the environment: As Oak Hill is a hub for outdoor activities, it is essential to respect the environment by leaving it as natural as possible.

Don’t:

  • Litter: Littering not only harms the environment but also screams disrespect towards the town and its people.

  • Drive recklessly: It is essential to drive with care on the winding roads of Oak Hill, as they can be treacherous for the unfamiliar.

Safety and Health

Oak Hill is a safe destination for travelers, but like any other place, it is imperative to stay vigilant and take the necessary precautions while exploring. Here’s what you need to know about safety and health when visiting Oak Hill:

Safety in Oak Hill

  • Use Common Sense: Be aware of your surroundings and use your common sense particularly when in crowded places.

  • Water Safety: Exercise caution when participating in adventure sports like white-water rafting and swimming in the river.

Health in Oak Hill

  • Stay Hydrated: It is essential to stay hydrated as you explore the outdoors of Oak Hill.

  • Be prepared for allergies: Oak Hill is known for the abundance of pollen, and it is essential for visitors with allergies to take necessary precautions beforehand.

Getting to Oak Hill: Transportation Options and Logistics

Here’s how to travel to Oak Hill:

Airports Near Oak Hill

The nearest airport to Oak Hill is the Beckley - Raleigh airport, which is a 20-minute drive from the town.

Bus Stations Near Oak Hill

Oak Hill does not have its own bus station, but a Greyhound bus station operates in Beckley, two miles north of Oak Hill.

Other Options

Visitors can drive to Oak Hill and take a rental car to get around the surrounding areas.

How to Get Around in Oak Hill

Renting a car is the most convenient way to get around Oak Hill, but if you’re looking for sustainable options, walking and biking around the town, are the most eco-friendly modes of transportation.

Where to Go Next from Oak Hill: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Here are a few nearby destinations that you could visit post exploring Oak Hill:

  • Charleston: The state’s capital has a vibrant culture and history, along with stunning architecture and restaurants.

  • Lewisburg: This is a charming town that is popular for its historic district, shopping, and dining.

  • New River Gorge Bridge: This bridge is a renowned landmark and connects two regions of the New River Gorge..

Conclusion

Oak Hill, with its natural beauty, cultural charm, and iconic landmarks, offers a memorable getaway for travelers. The town is an excellent example of how history, culture, and nature, coexist in harmony, making it the ideal escape for adventure lovers and history buffs. So pack your bags, and head out to Oak Hill for an unforgettable experience of West Virginia’s hospitality.