A GUIDE TO EXPLORING THE TREES OF MERCER COUNTY

Take a stroll and experience Mercer County’s ever-changing landscape. From the vibrant greens of spring and the cooling shade of summer to the fiery hues of fall and the steadfast evergreens of winter, each season brings a fresh perspective. But what trees thrive here, and where can you find them?

Pinnacle Rock State Park

Home to a towering 3,100-foot sandstone formation, Pinnacle Rock State Park offers panoramic views and scenic wooded trails. The park’s rocky ridges and dry upland forests support a variety of tree species, including:

  • Chestnut Oak 
  • Northern Red Oak 
  • Sourwood 
  • Eastern Hemlock 
  • Mountain Laurel 
  • Black Gum (Tupelo)

Camp Creek State Park

The rich hardwood forests and creekside habitats of Camp Creek State Park provide the perfect conditions for diverse tree species. Along the park’s 35 miles of trails, you’ll find:

  • Sugar Maple – West Virginia’s state tree
  • American Beech 
  • Tulip Poplar 
  • Black Walnut 
  • Sycamore 
  • White Ash

Brush Creek Preserve 

A protected nature preserve, Brush Creek Preserve features a variety of trees thriving along its waterfalls and riparian woodlands. While hiking to Brush Creek Falls, look for:

  • Eastern Hemlock
  • Yellow Birch
  • Red Maple 
  • Black Cherry 
  • American Basswood

Bluefield City Park

With 14 miles of trails weaving through 440 acres of parkland, Bluefield City Park offers a blend of urban green spaces and forested areas. Common tree species found in the park include:

  • White Oak 
  • Eastern Redbud 
  • Flowering Dogwood 
  • Silver Maple 
  • Hackberry 

Princeton City Park 

A variety of planted and naturally occurring trees thrive along the two-mile walking loop in the Princeton City Park, including:

  • Southern Red Oak 
  • Black Locust 
  • Sweetgum 
  • Bradford Pear 
  • Loblolly Pine

Pipestem Resort State Park 

Spanning 4,050 acres of river gorges, uplands and old-growth forests, Pipestem Resort State Park has incredible tree diversity, including:

  • Chestnut Oak
  • Shagbark Hickory 
  • Fraser Magnolia 
  • Bigleaf Magnolia 
  • Eastern Hemlock 
  • Sassafras

No matter the season, Mercer County’s trees offer a stunning backdrop for outdoor adventures. Lace up your hiking boots and explore the scenic landscapes shaped by these towering trees! Request a free travel guide to learn more about Mercer County and start planning your trip.

Last updated: August 12, 2025