West Virginia’s newest KOA campground, Mylan Park in Monongalia County, broke ground. This $11 million project includes 169 RV sites, cabins, a clubhouse, and camping facilities.
Gov. Jim Justice expressed enthusiasm about the project’s potential impact on the community. “I’m so excited for everything happening here in Morgantown at Mylan Park. Everyone here is committed to bettering their community and our great state by providing world-class recreational opportunities. This campground project is a shining example of a public-private partnership that has excelled beyond belief. I couldn’t be more proud.”
Over the past 20 years, Mylan Park has expanded its facilities to include various sports, wellness, and event venues. The state has bolstered the park’s development with substantial funding, notably through recent grants from the AMLER program and the West Virginia Water Development Authority. These contributions have enabled the addition of amenities such as refurbished ballfields and pickleball courts.
According to a press release, recent regional data from Mountaineer Country shows robust growth in traveler spending, which reached $373.75 million last year—an increase of 24% from the previous year. This economic activity supports over 5,000 jobs, making up 11% of the region’s total employment.
WVDEP Secretary Harold Ward noted the impact of state programs. “Through our AMLER program, and with guidance and support from Governor Justice and his Administration, we’ve been able to transform abandoned mine lands into valuable community assets like Mylan Park all across our state. This investment not only revitalizes our land but fulfills the overall vision of the Surface Mining Control and Reclamation Act by providing sustainable future use of our mined lands, while bolstering economic growth and recreational opportunities and enhancing the quality of life for all West Virginians,” he said.
The transformation of Mylan Park from a previously underutilized mining site to a thriving recreational area showcases a prime example of how land that was once left idle can be repurposed into a park offering a range of recreational amenities.
Developers seeking to replicate this success might consider scouting for underused or abandoned properties in their areas. These sites, with the right vision and development, can be successfully converted into vibrant RV parks or campgrounds, tapping into the growing demand for outdoor hospitality spaces.
Featured image by Office of the Governor Jim Justice via governor.wv.gov