Green lowland valleys and a distinctive ridge give Mineral County a striking contrast in scenery: the Allegheny Front rises 3,000 feet above the North Branch of the Potomac. The river and Jennings Randolph Lake add another dimension to explore. Meanwhile, churches, museums and historic buildings tell different chapters of the county’s history.
Experience the River and Lake
Jennings Randolph Lake stretches 5.5 miles along the North Branch of the Potomac between Garrett County, Maryland, and Mineral County, West Virginia. The lake provides habitat for birds, other wildlife and fish. Recreational amenities include boat ramps for fishing and boating, beach and picnic areas, and the Robert W. Craig Campground. Nature watching and waterside activities go hand in hand here, and the lake can be enjoyed in more than one way.
The fishing access at Barnum offers about a mile of riverbank. The North Branch is regularly stocked with brook char, brook trout, rainbow trout and golden trout; stocking plans may vary. Those interested in whitewater can start a seven-mile rafting route at the Barnum Whitewater Area. Its rapids are rated Class I, II and III. Release conditions and dates may vary, so it is recommended that you check them before your trip.
Discover History Along the Way
The Mineral County Heritage Trail is a self-guided driving route that can be traveled any day of the year. Some buildings along the route may not be open. If a particular building is important to your visit, check its opening hours in advance. The historic sites reveal different facets of the county’s history: Traveller’s Rest was built in 1928 as a stagecoach stop serving the Northwestern Turnpike and houses an exhibit on the Twin Mountain and Potomac Railroad.
Claysville Church also connects architectural history with the history of the Civil War. It is the oldest frame church building in Mineral County and served both the Union and the Confederacy during the war; people of both sympathies were welcome. Carskadon Mansion offers a different perspective: Built around 1866, this three-story historic residence with eight bedrooms was the former home of Thomas R. Carskadon and was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 2002.
Ashby’s Fort Museum is dedicated to the first fort on the Virginia frontier, whose construction George Washington ordered during the French and Indian War. A historic log cabin at Stewart’s Tavern is now a museum. The Old Furnace is the only iron furnace in Mineral County. Eusebia Presbyterian Church is one of the county’s two oldest active congregations. Together, these sites show the varied traces of everyday life, religion and industry.
Museums, Collections and Other Perspectives
Personal and community mementos take center stage at the Mineral County Historical Society Museum. Exhibits include the complete uniform and personal military pack of Oliver Frederick Liller from World War I. A funeral corner features a coffin receiving stand, artifacts from a funeral home, a portable autopsy table and a typical mourning dress. This unusual collection offers a different perspective from the exhibits on military history and regional buildings.
Further insights await at Nancy Hanks Cabin, a replica of the cabin where Nancy Hanks was born, and the Gohongaronta Gallery. The gallery houses a scale replica of the 1903 Wright Flyer, which made the first powered flight; the replica is 40 percent of the original size. Armstrong Mansion is also included on the Keyser Historical Walking Trail.
Trails, Events and Regional Experiences
Larenim Park is located at the Barrens site and has more than three miles of hiking trails. Public hunting is also permitted there with a license. For a different kind of exploration, Mineral County has two different sugar shacks that produce West Virginia maple syrup and offer tours year-round. Confirm tour dates and arrangements before you travel.
At the annual Mineral County Fair, young people from the county showcase livestock and their agricultural skills. Those who want to explore the water more actively can find kayak and tubing rentals, shuttle services, introductory courses and themed trips at Clyde’s in the western Potomac watershed. Check operating arrangements before your trip. Mineral County can be explored through its scenery, regional history or waterside activities, depending on your interests.
Discover more destinations: Keyser, Boone County, Upshur, Marion, Berkeley County, Marshall County, Harrison, Hardy County.
For the overview of the wider region: West Virginia.
