HURRICANE — The West Virginia State Parks Foundation has announced the winners of its winter “Mountains Are Always Free” photography contest, which drew hundreds of submissions from across the state and beyond.
The contest, which opened in early December 2025, invited both professional and amateur photographers to submit winter-themed images captured within West Virginia State Parks, forests and rail trails. Entries were judged across three categories.
Winners of the “Mountains Are Always Free” Photo Contest:
- Winterscape: Matthew Marsh of Keyser — Ekalaka Falls, Blackwater Falls State Park
- Fancy Facilities: Peggy Smith of Jodie — Glade Creek Grist Mill, Babcock State Park
- Outdoor Recreation: Teresa Taylor of Culloden — Sled Run, Blackwater Falls State Park
“We received hundreds of submissions from across the state, as well as from individuals in other states who share a love for West Virginia State Parks,” said Foundation Executive Director Brad Reed. “There were so many outstanding images that selecting the winners was no easy task. We assembled a team of state park staff and Foundation board members to review and score each entry. I’d especially like to thank Sylvia Walton from the West Virginia Division of Natural Resources for her invaluable support in coordinating the administrative aspects of the contest.”
- Photo by Peggy Smith of Jodie, featuring Glade Creek Grist Mill at Babcock State Park.
Foundation Treasurer Kim McCluskey, who participated in the final selection process, added, “The quality of submissions was incredible, making it very difficult to choose just one winner in each category. The photos truly showcase the diversity of our park system — from beautiful facilities like lodges and historic sites to the wide range of outdoor activities enjoyed by visitors.”
The Foundation plans to launch a spring and summer-themed photo contest in the coming months.
- Photo by Teresa Taylor of Culloden, featuring the Sled Run at Blackwater Falls State Park.
The West Virginia State Parks Foundation is an independent 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to preserving, protecting and enhancing West Virginia State Parks. The Foundation provides leadership in communication, funding and advocacy in partnership with individual park foundations throughout the state. More information is available at lovewvstateparks.com.
