Prickett's Fort State Park is a day-use historical and recreational park, located just north of Fairmont, WV. The original fort was built at the confluence of Pricketts Creek and the Monongahela River in 1774, and provided a place of refuge from Native American attack for early settlers to the area. In addition to the reconstructed Fort, the state park features the Job Prickett House, built in 1859. The site is listed on the National Register of Historical Places.
The Visitor Center includes ticket counter, research library, museum gift shop and a gallery which features an orientation exhibit and video. The research library focuses on 18th and 19th century and regional history, and is open to the public during regular business hours. The Visitor Center, the historical interpretation program, and all special events are managed by the Pricketts Fort Memorial Foundation, under long-term contract with the state. Other recreational facilities at Pricketts Fort include picnic areas, nature trails, fishing, and a boat launch. Pricketts Fort is a trail head providing rail trail access to both the MCPARC trail to Fairmont and the Mon River Trail South to Morgantown. Bikes are available for rental at the Visitor Center during business hours. Prickett's Fort State Park. Photography Policy Starting April 23, 2018, Prickett's Fort State Park and the Pricketts Fort Memorial Foundation will no longer allow for pay photographers (photographers for hire) to take pictures during operating hours and special events. Photographers are welcome before and after regular business hours and special events. Please see times and upcoming events page. |
Hours of OperationVisitor Center: Pricketts Fort gift shop, orientation gallery and administrative offices are open daily - 10am to 4pm.
The 2025 season begins April 21st and ends October 26th. Monday through Saturday 10:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. (Ticket sales end at 4:00 p.m.)
12:00 p.m. - 4:30 pm (Ticket sales end at 4:00 p.m.)
AdmissionAdults - $8.00 Seniors (60+) - $6.00 Youth (6-12) - $4.00 Children 5 and under - FREE Members - FREE |
Job Prickett HouseBuilt in 1859, the historic Job Prickett House offers daily tours during the regular season. The house is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and has been restored to its original condition.
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Bray Blacksmith ShopVisitors to Pricketts Fort are offered a unique glimpse into the everyday work of an 18th century blacksmith at the Bray Blacksmith Shop. The shop is open daily throughout the regular season.
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AmphitheaterLocated next to the Visitor Center, the amphitheater offers plays and a variety of concerts each year. Scheduled concerts can be found on the Upcoming Events page and are free of charge to the public.
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Visitor Center
The Pricketts Fort Visitor Center houses a museum orientation gallery, research library, and a gift shop. These resources are available to visitors year round.
- Orientation Gallery – The museum orientation gallery contains a variety of educational exhibits and unique artifacts. A short introductory video on the history of Pricketts fort is also available for viewing in the gallery.
- Thomas Library – The Thomas Library houses books, documents, photographs and digital resources that focus on 18th century America, the Western Virginia frontier, Pricketts Fort Community, genealogy, and various other historic subjects.
- Museum Gift Shop – The Pricketts Fort gift shop offers a unique selection of items to delight visitors of all ages. From handmade items to history books, to Pricketts Fort memorabilia, there really is something for everyone.