Kermit McKeever

(March 10, 1910 - September 8, 1995)
 

Kermit McKeever is widely regarded as the father of the modern West Virginia state park system. Born near Renick, Greenbrier County, McKeever’s vision and leadership transformed the state’s parks into major assets for tourism, recreation, and economic development. His commitment to the parks and the people of West Virginia shaped the state’s natural landscapes and outdoor opportunities for generations to come.

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• Early Life and Education:

  • Born near Renick, Greenbrier County, West Virginia.

  • Graduate of Glenville State College (Education) and West Virginia University (Forestry).

• Career in State Parks:

  • Began his career in 1942 as superintendent of Lost River State Park.​

  • ​​Became superintendent of Watoga State Park in 1944, and in 1948, was appointed chief of the state park system, a position he held until his retirement in 1978.

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• Key Contributions and Developments:

  • Led the expansion of the state park system, increasing the number of parks from 14 to 35.

  • Played a major role in planning and developing Blackwater Falls, Holly River, Grandview, Hawks Nest, Pipestem, Canaan, Cacapon, and Twin Falls state parks.

  • Advocated for no entrance fees to the parks, arguing their economic and indirect benefits, including business growth, taxes, and employment.

  • Worked tirelessly to secure federal funding for the ski facilities at Canaan Valley, overcoming legal and financial challenges to establish a top-tier ski destination.

  • Canaan Valley’s ski facilities were a major leap forward for the park system, with McKeever prioritizing ski area development over other planned facilities to maximize impact.

• Legacy:

  • McKeever’s vision for the state parks continues to impact the tourism and recreation industries in West Virginia.

  • The McKeever Lodge at Pipestem State Park honors his legacy.

  • He retired in 1978 and passed away in 1995, leaving behind a transformed park system that reflects his dedication to outdoor recreation and state development.