Foundation Launches Statewide Trail Repair Fundraising Drive

The West Virginia State Parks Foundation is seeking private donations to fund trail repairs and upgrades across state parks, state forests and rail trails.

Updated on Nov. 13, 2026 in Hiking

Foundation Launches Statewide Trail Repair Fundraising Drive

Live Poll

Would you donate money to help repair and improve public trails?

The West Virginia State Parks Foundation launched a statewide fundraising campaign to pay for trail repairs and upgrades in state parks, state forests and rail trails. The nonprofit announced the campaign on Wednesday, asking individuals, businesses and organizations to donate.

Why it matters

Trails face ongoing challenges from weather, erosion, heavy use and aging infrastructure, and a statewide State Parks marketing study found trails are the top gateway activity for park visitors. Private money is aimed at keeping trails safe, open and easy to use across West Virginia.

The campaign is a privately funded effort, with donations flowing toward trail improvements in state parks, state forests and rail trails. The specific dollar goal and list of selected projects were not provided in the source material.

The players

West Virginia State Parks Foundation

The nonprofit organization supports the state's parks, forests and trails through private fundraising and partnerships with local park foundations.

West Virginia Division of Natural Resources

The state agency manages West Virginia's state parks, state forests and outdoor recreation areas, and will help select which trail projects receive funding.

The details

The Foundation will work with local park foundations and the West Virginia Division of Natural Resources to choose which projects receive donated funds. Private donations will then go toward those improvements, which are intended to keep trails safe, open and easy to use.

- The Foundation announced the statewide campaign on Wednesday, November 11, 2026.

Season Trajectory

Trails have become the primary entry point for visitors to West Virginia's state parks, according to a statewide State Parks marketing study. Directing private money toward trail upkeep positions the Foundation to protect that core visitor draw as weather, erosion and heavy use take a toll on aging infrastructure.

Hikers planning trips to West Virginia state parks, forests and rail trails may benefit from upgraded trail conditions as donated funds are directed to repairs. Individuals who want to help can contribute to the campaign to support the trails they use.

The takeaway

Donating to trail maintenance is one direct way for residents and visitors to help keep West Virginia's trails safe and accessible. Choosing to give or volunteer locally can help sustain the trails you enjoy most.