West Virginia Counties Map

Nestled in the heart of Appalachia in the Eastern United States, West Virginia is renowned for its rugged natural beauty, rich history, and vibrant culture. The state’s heritage is closely linked to coal mining and formative events in the country’s history, both of which influence West Virginia’s identity today.

West Virginia (WV) on the US Map

The 55 counties in West Virginia are full of natural wonders and historical landmarks. Each has its own history, attractions, and culture. In this post, we’ll look at a West Virginia Counties Map before learning more about the state’s most notable counties.

Map of West Virginia Counties

Below is a map of the 55 counties of West Virginia (you can click on the map to enlarge it and to see the major city in each county).

Interactive Map of West Virginia Counties

Click on any of the counties on the map to see its population, economic data, time zone, and zip code (the data will appear below the map). Data is sourced from the US Census 2021.

List of the Counties of West Virginia:

Largest Counties in West Virginia by Population

Kanawha County 

Kanawha County, created in 1788, is the most populous county in West Virginia, with Charleston as its county seat and the state’s capital. This county plays a pivotal role in the state’s government, economy, and culture. The Capitol Complex in Charleston, with its stunning gold dome, is a notable landmark and houses the West Virginia State Museum, which chronicles the state’s rich history.

The Kanawha River runs through the county, providing a scenic backdrop to the urban landscape and opportunities for water-based activities. The county is also home to the Kanawha State Forest, a popular destination for hiking, mountain biking, and observing wildlife, showcasing West Virginia’s natural beauty.

Charleston hosts numerous cultural events, including the annual Charleston Sternwheel Regatta, which celebrates the city’s riverfront with boat races, concerts, and fireworks. Kanawha County’s blend of urban amenities and natural landscapes, combined with its cultural heritage and community events, makes it a central hub of activity and exploration in West Virginia.

Berkeley County  

Berkeley County, established in 1772, is located in the Eastern Panhandle of West Virginia, making it one of the state’s oldest and most historically rich counties. Martinsburg, the county seat, is known for its historical architecture and the Martinsburg Roundhouse, a site significant for its role in the Civil War and the first national labor strike in 1877.

The county is part of the growing Washington-Baltimore metropolitan area, attracting residents and businesses with its blend of historical charm and modern conveniences. Berkeley County’s proximity to the Potomac River allows for a variety of outdoor activities, including fishing, kayaking, and scenic walks along the C&O Canal Towpath.

Agriculture remains a vital part of the county’s economy, with apple orchards and farming playing a significant role in the local and state markets. The county is also home to several annual festivals that celebrate its heritage and community, such as the Mountain State Apple Harvest Festival, which draws visitors with parades, crafts, and apple-themed events.

Monongalia County      

Monongalia County, formed in 1776, lies in northern West Virginia, with Morgantown as its county seat. Morgantown is renowned for housing West Virginia University, a major research institution that significantly contributes to the county’s vibrancy and cultural diversity.

The county offers a mix of urban and natural attractions. The Monongahela River provides scenic beauty and recreational opportunities, including boating and fishing, while the Rail-Trail system offers miles of pathways for walking, biking, and exploration, connecting Morgantown to surrounding areas.

Monongalia County’s economy benefits from a blend of education, healthcare, and technology sectors, with the university serving as a major employer. Additionally, the county’s festivals and events, like the West Virginia Wine and Jazz Festival, draw visitors for unique experiences that showcase local talent and produce.

Cabell Count

Cabell County, established in 1809, is located in the western part of West Virginia along the Ohio River, with Huntington as its county seat. Huntington is a vibrant city known for its active arts scene, historic downtown area, and Marshall University, which adds a youthful energy and hosts a variety of cultural and sporting events.

The Ohio River provides a backdrop for Huntington’s Harris Riverfront Park, offering leisure and recreation activities such as boating, fishing, and scenic walks. The city is also home to the Huntington Museum of Art, which features extensive collections and a conservatory, further enriching the county’s cultural offerings.

Railroad enthusiasts enjoy the Heritage Farm Museum and Village, showcasing the region’s history and development. Additionally, the Ritter Park Historic District offers a glimpse into Huntington’s architectural past, with beautifully preserved homes lining the park’s edges.

Wood County

Wood County, formed in 1798 and named for then-governor James Wood, is situated along the Ohio River in the northwestern part of West Virginia, with Parkersburg serving as the county seat.

The city of Parkersburg is known for its historical significance, particularly during the Civil War, and for Blennerhassett Island Historical State Park. The park, accessible by sternwheeler, features the reconstructed Blennerhassett Mansion, museum, and walking trails, offering visitors a glimpse into early American life.

Wood County also boasts a strong community spirit, evident in events like the Parkersburg Homecoming Festival and the Mid-Ohio Valley Multi-Cultural Festival, which celebrate the area’s heritage and diversity. The Oil and Gas Museum in Parkersburg highlights the region’s role in the early oil industry, adding to Wood County’s array of attractions.

Smallest Counties in West Virginia by Population

Wirt County

Wirt County, established in 1848, is the smallest county in West Virginia by population. Located in the western part of the state, its county seat, Elizabeth, embodies the quintessential small-town atmosphere, with a tight-knit community and scenic landscapes. The county is characterized by its rolling hills, forests, and the Little Kanawha River, which meanders through Elizabeth, providing opportunities for fishing and boating.

The area is known for its outdoor recreation, including hunting and hiking, particularly in the Hughes River Wildlife Management Area, which offers expansive spaces for nature enthusiasts to explore. Wirt County’s history is preserved in the Beauchamp-Newman Museum, housing genealogical resources and historical documents.

Community events, such as the annual Wirt County Fair, bring residents together for entertainment, agricultural displays, and competitions, reflecting the county’s rural heritage and local pride.

Pendleton County

Pendleton County, created in 1788, is nestled within the scenic Allegheny Mountains of West Virginia’s eastern panhandle. Franklin, the county seat, is a picturesque town that serves as a gateway to outdoor adventures and the area’s rich history. This county is renowned for its breathtaking landscapes, including the Spruce Knob, the highest point in West Virginia, offering panoramic views and exceptional hiking trails in the surrounding Spruce Knob-Seneca Rocks National Recreation Area.

Seneca Rocks, a striking crag and a popular destination for rock climbers and sightseers, stands as a testament to the natural beauty that defines Pendleton County. The area’s pristine rivers and streams, such as the North Fork South Branch Potomac River, attract fishing enthusiasts and provide beautiful settings for kayaking and canoeing.

Pendleton County’s agricultural roots are visible in its rolling farmlands and the community’s support for local produce and goods. The county also hosts events that celebrate its heritage and the great outdoors, including the Treasure Mountain Festival, which commemorates the legend of hidden gold and showcases local crafts, food, and music.

Calhoun County

Calhoun County, formed in 1856, is situated in the heart of West Virginia, characterized by its rugged terrain and dense forests. Grantsville, the county seat, offers a snapshot of small-town life with a welcoming community and a rich history. This county is a haven for those seeking solitude and a connection with nature, with the Little Kanawha River providing a pathway for kayaking and fishing amidst serene landscapes.

The county is known for its vast tracts of public lands, including the Stumptown Wildlife Management Area, which offers opportunities for hunting, fishing, and wildlife observation. Calhoun County’s rural roads wind through picturesque countryside, leading to hidden natural treasures and offering scenic drives for visitors and locals alike.

The annual Calhoun County Wood Festival in Grantsville celebrates the area’s logging heritage and community spirit with music, crafts, and a lumberjack competition. Despite its remote location, Calhoun County maintains a strong sense of identity and pride, with residents committed to preserving the natural beauty and cultural heritage of their region.

Other Notable Counties in West Virginia

Greenbrier County

Greenbrier County, established in 1778, is nestled in the southeastern part of West Virginia, featuring a landscape of rolling hills and verdant valleys. The county seat, Lewisburg, is recognized for its historical architecture, vibrant arts scene, and the annual West Virginia State Fair, drawing visitors for its blend of entertainment, agriculture, and culture.

The luxurious Greenbrier Resort, located in White Sulphur Springs, offers world-class amenities, including golf courses, spa services, and casino gaming, set against the backdrop of the Allegheny Mountains. This resort has hosted numerous dignitaries and offers a glimpse into upscale leisure activities.

Outdoor enthusiasts are drawn to Greenbrier County for the Greenbrier River Trail, a 78-mile-long trail ideal for hiking, biking, and horseback riding, showcasing the natural beauty of the region. The county is also a destination for anglers and paddlers, with the Greenbrier River providing ample opportunities for fishing and water sports.

Historic sites abound, including the North House Museum in Lewisburg, which offers insights into the area’s past, and the Confederate Cemetery, a reminder of the county’s Civil War history.

Hancock County

Hancock County, the northernmost county in West Virginia, was created in 1848. It is bordered by the Ohio River to the west, making it a strategic location for commerce and industry throughout its history. The county seat, New Cumberland, offers a quaint, small-town atmosphere, while the larger city of Weirton, stretching to the Ohio border, provides more urban amenities and services.

The county is known for the Tomlinson Run State Park, which offers a variety of recreational activities, including camping, fishing, and hiking, set against the picturesque backdrop of West Virginia’s rolling hills. The park’s diverse ecosystem supports a wide range of wildlife, making it a popular spot for nature enthusiasts.

Hancock County’s position along the Ohio River has historically contributed to its economy, particularly in manufacturing and steel production, shaping the community’s character. Today, the Mountaineer Casino, Racetrack & Resort in Chester draws visitors for entertainment and gaming, contributing to the county’s tourism industry.

Significant too is the Homer Laughlin China Company, famous for producing the iconic Fiesta line of dinnerware, which reflects Hancock County’s industrial heritage and ongoing commitment to craftsmanship and innovation.

Jefferson County

Jefferson County, established in 1801, is situated in the Eastern Panhandle of West Virginia, marking the state’s easternmost point.

Harpers Ferry, part of the county, is historically significant for John Brown’s raid on the Armory in 1859, an event that played a pivotal role in the lead-up to the Civil War. Today, Harpers Ferry National Historical Park preserves this history, offering visitors a chance to explore the historic town, its museums, and the natural beauty surrounding the confluence of the Shenandoah and Potomac Rivers.

Charles Town, the county seat, is home to the Charles Town Races, a thoroughbred horse racing track that draws visitors and racing enthusiasts. The area’s rich agricultural land supports orchards and vineyards, contributing to Jefferson County’s reputation for local produce and wine.

The county is also known for its scenic beauty, with the Appalachian Trail passing through and offering hiking opportunities. The Shenandoah River provides additional recreational activities, including fishing, kayaking, and tubing.

Mercer County

Mercer County, formed in 1837, lies in southern West Virginia, with Princeton as its county seat. The region is known for its contribution to the coal mining industry, a significant part of West Virginia’s history and development.

The county’s landscape is characterized by the rugged beauty of the Appalachian Mountains, offering outdoor activities such as hiking and mountain biking in areas like Pinnacle Rock State Park, which features striking rock formations and panoramic views.

Bluefield, known as “Nature’s Air-Conditioned City” due to its pleasant summer climate, hosts the annual Bluefield Blue Jays Festival, celebrating the town’s minor league baseball team and community spirit. The East River Mountain Tunnel connects Mercer County to Virginia, serving as a vital transportation link and engineering marvel.

Cultural attractions in Mercer County include the Mercer County War Museum in Princeton, dedicated to honoring the service of military veterans, and the Chuck Mathena Center, a venue for performing arts that draws acts from across the nation.

Tucker County

Tucker County, established in 1856, is nestled in the heart of the Allegheny Mountains of West Virginia. Its county seat, Parsons, is a gateway to some of the state’s most pristine natural landscapes. The county is renowned for its outdoor recreation opportunities, particularly in the Canaan Valley area, which offers skiing at Canaan Valley Resort State Park and Timberline Four Seasons Resort.

Blackwater Falls State Park, featuring the spectacular Blackwater Falls, a 57-foot cascade colored by tannic acid from fallen hemlock and red spruce needles, is one of Tucker County’s most visited attractions. The park provides a variety of activities throughout the year, from hiking and camping to cross-country skiing.

The Dolly Sods Wilderness, part of the Monongahela National Forest, presents a unique landscape of high-altitude plateaus and windswept rock formations, offering challenging trails and exceptional views.

Tucker County also supports a vibrant arts scene, with the town of Thomas hosting numerous galleries, music venues, and the annual Mountain State Forest Festival, drawing visitors for its creative and natural attractions.

More About West Virginia Counties: FAQs

Image Sources and Copyright Information

• Aerial View of the West Virginia State Capitol Building Surrounded by Greenery: © Grindstone Media Group/Shutterstock
• Quiet Street Scene in Martinsburg, Berkeley County Historic District with Classic Architecture: © www.byways.org/Wikimedia Commons
• Panoramic View of a Lush Green Downtown Area with River and Campus Buildings: © Steve Heap/Shutterstock
• Serene Riverfront Park with Lush Green Trees and Flower Pots Overlooking a Calm River: © Stony River/Shutterstock
• Period Reenactors in Front of the Historic Blennerhassett Mansion at Blennerhassett Island Historical State Park: © Malachi Jacobs/Shutterstock
• Wirt County Courthouse in Elizabeth, West Virginia: © Tim Kiser/Wikimedia Commons | CC BY-SA 2.5 Generic
• Scenic Overlook from Spruce Knob in Pendleton County, West Virginia: © Jon Bilous/Shutterstock
• Calhoun County Courthouse in West Virginia Adorned with Holiday Wreaths: © Time Kiser/Wikimedia Commons | CC BY-SA 2.5 Generic
• Aerial View of a Grand Historic Resort with a Green Lawn and Mountainous Backdrop: © Dynamic Photography/Shutterstock
• Victorian Style Brick House with American Flag and Wraparound Porch: © Generic1139/Wikimedia Commons | CC BY-SA 3.0 Unported
• Charming Historic Street with Traditional Buildings and Shops Against a Backdrop of Lush Hills: © Jon Bilous/Shutterstock
• Autumn Splendor at Brush Creek Falls in Mercer County: © Claire Salvail Photos/Shutterstock
• Morning Light Over Autumn Foliage in Tucker County: © anthony heflin/Shutterstock