Watoga State Park opened to the public in July 1937

 Watoga State Park is the largest state park in West Virginia, covering 10,100 acres (41 km2) in Pocahontas County. It was named after the Cherokee word for "starry waters."

The land that forms the nucleus of Watoga was originally acquired in January 1925, when the park was initially planned to be a state forest. In May 1934, a decision was made to instead develop the site as a state park.

The Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) was heavily involved in the development of Watoga State Park. CCC crews built the park's roads, trails, bridges, dams, and other infrastructure. They also built the park's cabins, lodge, and other buildings.

Watoga State Park opened to the public in July 1937. The park was a popular destination during World War II, when many people visited to escape the hustle and bustle of city life.

After the war, work on the park continued. The first camping area opened in 1953, and eight deluxe cabins opened in 1956.

Watoga State Park is home to a variety of recreational activities, including hiking, camping, fishing, boating, and swimming. The park also has a golf course, a museum, and a nature center.

In 2011, the Watoga State Park Historic District was added to the National Register of Historic Places. The district includes the park's CCC-built infrastructure, as well as some of the park's original buildings.

Today, Watoga State Park is a popular destination for people from all over the state. It is a beautiful and serene place to enjoy the outdoors.

Here are some of the notable features of Watoga State Park:

• Watoga Lake: The park's namesake lake is a popular spot for fishing, boating, and swimming.
• The CCC-built cabins: These rustic cabins are a popular choice for overnight guests.
• The Watoga State Park Museum: This museum tells the story of the park's history and its role in the Civilian Conservation Corps.
• The Watoga Trail System: The park has over 30 miles of hiking trails, ranging from easy to challenging.
• The Greenbrier River Trail: This 72-mile long rail trail passes through the park and provides a scenic way to explore the area.