Governor Morrisey Announces Reservations Open for WV Glamping

Governor Patrick Morrisey announced today that reservations are officially open for 32 new glamping accommodations across four West Virginia state parks.

The new lodging options, which combine traditional outdoor experiences with modern amenities like furnished interiors and comfortable beds, are available for the 2027 season.

This expansion aims to capitalize on a massive surge in the state’s outdoor recreation sector.

Governor Morrisey Announces Glamping Reservations Now Open at Four West Virginia State Parks — Governor Patrick Morrisey

The project functions as a public-private partnership between the West Virginia Division of Natural Resources and Out & West, LLC, a company based in Lewisburg. Under the terms of the agreement, Out & West provides the necessary investment to construct, operate, and maintain the canvas-style accommodations.

The state maintains ownership and oversight of the parks and will receive revenue to support ongoing park operations. This model allows the state to increase its lodging capacity without utilizing taxpayer funds for construction costs.

The Governor made the announcement at Pipestem Resort State Park, where a furnished demonstration unit was available for viewing. He said that these partnerships help build on existing momentum by attracting more visitors and creating new opportunities for West Virginia workers.

The introduction of "glamorous camping" changes how the state manages its natural assets to meet changing consumer preferences. While traditional camping remains a staple, the addition of furnished seating, lighting, and outdoor gathering spaces targets a demographic seeking nature without sacrificing comfort.

The economic stakes for local communities are tied directly to the success of these sites. Increased overnight stays typically translate to higher spending at local restaurants, retail shops, and service providers, potentially deepening the $9.4 billion economic impact seen in previous years.

However, the move toward private-sector involvement in state-owned lands can sometimes draw scrutiny regarding the long-term management of public resources. While the state retains oversight, the reliance on private entities like Out & West to drive development is a central component of this growth strategy.

Reservations for the upcoming season can be made through WVstateparks.com.