The park's location is built upon the site of the historical town of Volcano, which was destroyed by a massive fire in 1879.
The 48-acre lake was constructed in 1970 as a flood control project for the area.
Mountwood Park hosts one of the largest competitive mountain biking trail networks in the state of West Virginia.
Remnants of the historic Laurel Fork and Sand Hill Railroad, which once serviced the oil industry, are still visible within the park boundaries.
The park features an outdoor amphitheater used for community events and seasonal gatherings.
Mountwood Park is a 2,600-acre regional recreation area situated in Wood County, West Virginia. The centerpiece of the park is a 48-acre lake created by an earthen dam, which serves as a hub for fishing and boating activities. The park contains over 50 miles of multi-use trails designated for hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding. It serves as a significant site for local history, featuring the ruins of the Volcano community, an oil boom town that thrived in the late 19th century. Visitors can access primitive and full-hookup campgrounds, picnic shelters, and an archery range on-site. The topography is characterized by rolling Appalachian foothills and dense hardwood forests. It is managed by the Mountwood Park Commission and provides year-round access to outdoor recreational facilities.
The spillway and overlook area near the main lake dam.
Check the official trail map before heading out, as the extensive network can be challenging to navigate without a guide.
Bring insect repellent, as the forested environment and lake proximity can lead to high tick and mosquito activity.
If planning to use the lake, ensure your watercraft complies with local park safety regulations regarding motor types.
Attempting to hike the more technical mountain bike trails without appropriate gear, as these are designed for high-speed cycling.
Park facilities and campgrounds follow seasonal availability; primitive camping remains open longer than full-hookup sites.
Practice 'Leave No Trace' principles; keep pets on a leash in designated areas and clean up after them.
