Fort Boreman Park

Perched atop a high hill, Fort Boreman Park is a unique blend of a historical monument and a scenic overlook. This destination in Parkersburg draws travelers with the chance to see authentic fortifications from the U.S. Civil War and enjoy some of the region's best views.

Spanning approximately 12 acres, the park is an important archaeological site. It features original zigzag trenches dug by soldiers back in 1863. From a bird's-eye view, a breathtaking panorama unfolds over the valley formed by the confluence of the mighty Ohio and Little Kanawha rivers.

Today, Parkersburg carefully preserves this heritage: the site is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Modern amenities, such as walking trails and viewing platforms, make the park a popular destination for history buffs and professional photographers seeking the perfect sunset shot.

If you are planning a visit to this historical park or want to inquire about booking recreation areas, it is recommended to contact the administration in advance. For your convenience, the main contact details are listed below.

The main reason to head to the summit is the panoramic views. The observation decks offer a magnificent perspective of the city, the winding rivers, and Blennerhassett Island. It is an ideal location for photography, especially during the golden hour before sunset.

History buffs will enjoy exploring the defensive trench system and seeing the reconstructed fortifications. Interpretive signs are placed along the paths, detailing the daily lives of soldiers and the fort's significance. An era-appropriate artillery cannon is also stationed at the top, a favorite for both children and adults to inspect.

For outdoor enthusiasts, there is a nature trail winding through the greenery. Families can take advantage of the well-equipped BBQ areas and covered picnic pavilions. The grounds also feature a small playground, making the park a great spot for a short outdoor break.

Located just 2 miles (about 3 km) from downtown Parkersburg, the park is easily accessible. The main entrance is at 1042 Fort Boreman Drive, and it is most convenient to reach by private car or taxi, following US-50 East or I-77.

For those arriving from nearby cities like Marietta or Wheeling, the highway route is quick and straightforward thanks to numerous signs. Spacious free parking is provided at both the base and the summit of the hill, making the visit as comfortable as possible.

The pedestrian ascent to the main overlooks begins right from the parking area. You can choose to climb the specially built steps or take the gentler side path that curves around the hill and is accessible for people with limited mobility.

The history of this site is inextricably linked to the events of the U.S. Civil War. Fort Boreman was established in 1863 by the 11th West Virginia Volunteer Infantry. Its primary strategic mission was to protect the vital Baltimore and Ohio Railroad terminal and river routes from potential attacks.

The fortification was named after Arthur I. Boreman, a prominent Parkersburg native and the first governor of West Virginia. Although construction was fully completed by 1864 and artillery batteries were stationed here, the fort, ironically, never came under direct enemy attack before the war ended in 1865.

In the early 20th century, the hilltop became a favorite walking spot for locals, but over time, the fortifications fell into disrepair. It wasn't until 1997 that work began to transform the area into a park, and in 2003, the site was officially listed on the U.S. National Register of Historic Places for its unique archaeological and military value.

The modern park opened to the public in 2007. Today, archaeologists continue to study the surviving zigzag trenches, which once reached depths of four feet, allowing tourists to literally touch the region's military past.

For a leisurely stroll around the grounds and to take in the panoramas, 1 to 2 hours is sufficient for most visitors. This is plenty of time to explore the historical trenches, read the information boards, and take a series of memorable photos of the river confluence.

If you plan to have a family lunch in one of the picnic shelters or walk the nature trail several times, you should set aside a bit more time—about half a day. The park's compact size makes it easy to combine a visit here with other attractions in the city center.

Fort Boreman Park is open to visitors year-round. On weekdays (Monday through Friday), the grounds are accessible 24 hours a day, while on weekends (Saturday and Sunday), the gates are open to guests from 6:00 AM to 9:00 PM.

Please note that access to the observation decks may be restricted during extreme weather conditions. It is recommended to check the official park website before your visit to ensure there are no temporary restrictions on access to historical zones.

A visit to the hilltop park is just the beginning of your journey through the region. Exploring the immediate surroundings of Parkersburg will help you dive deeper into the atmosphere of West Virginia and see many other architectural and historical monuments.