Carnifex Ferry Battlefield Museum Reopening Weekend

Carnifex Ferry Battlefield State Park opens its summer season over Memorial Day weekend with the reopening of the Patterson House Museum. From the rim of the Gauley River Canyon in Summersville, West Virginia, you get a grounded look at a key 1861 Civil War engagement, with museum exhibits focused on how the conflict shaped the local community. If you are moving between Summersville Lake and the New River Gorge, this is a straightforward stop that trades crowds and high-energy recreation for history and open views.

Plan to split your time between the museum and the rim trails. Easy paths lead to multiple overlooks where you can photograph the canyon and watch the river below, and the museum and gift shop provide context through preserved artifacts. You should not expect large reenactments for this reopening weekend, though you may see volunteers in period clothing available for questions.

Admission to both the park and museum is free. Arrive before 11:00 AM if you want parking close to the Patterson House, and bring sturdy shoes and water if you intend to cover the full trail system. Dogs are welcome on leash outdoors but cannot enter the museum, and there is no food service on site, so pack lunch for the picnic shelters. Weather can shift quickly in the mountains, and the museum is a reliable indoor option if storms move through.

Good to know: the Patterson House Museum stays open 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM throughout the holiday weekend. If you are staying overnight, cabins and campgrounds around Summersville Lake are the closest base, with additional vacation rentals in the New River Gorge area or through Lake.com. Accessibility is strongest at the museum and main overlooks; some rim trails include uneven footing.