Cameron West VirginiaATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Cameron, West Virginia.
1. The Archive of the Afterlife
PARANORMAL MUSEUM AND ODDITIES
The Archive of the Afterlife is a specialty museum in Cameron that harbors hauntingly charged vessels, cursed conduits, and historical relics. Visitors can explore a diverse collection of mysterious oddities and out-of-this-world artifacts. The museum offers a unique experience for those interested in the paranormal and unusual historical items.
2. Cameron Downtown Historic District
HISTORIC ARCHITECTURE AND HERITAGE
Cameron Downtown is a national historic district listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1998. The district showcases the town's unique architecture and reflects its rich heritage dating back to its founding in 1852. Visitors can stroll through the historic downtown area to appreciate the small-town charm and historical significance.
3. Cameron City Pool-PWA Project 1196
HISTORIC BEACH-STYLE SWIMMING
Cameron's historical beach-style swimming pool is one of only a few such facilities in the entire nation. Built as a Public Works Administration project, this unique swimming destination offers visitors a glimpse into recreational facilities of the past. The pool represents an important piece of the town's recreational history and New Deal era construction.
4. Spencer Cemetery
HISTORIC BURIAL GROUND
Spencer Cemetery is a historic cemetery in Cameron that was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 2012. This burial ground serves as a testament to the area's early settlers and prominent historical figures. Visitors interested in genealogy and local history can explore the grounds to discover connections to Cameron's past.
5. Palace of Gold
ORNATE SPIRITUAL LANDMARK
The Palace of Gold is an ornate and elaborately decorated Hindu temple located near Cameron in the New Vrindaban community. Often referred to as 'America's Taj Mahal,' this golden palace features crystal chandeliers, stained glass windows, and intricate marble work. Visitors can tour the palace and its beautiful gardens while learning about Hindu culture and spirituality.
6. New Vrindaban Temple
HINDU SPIRITUAL CENTER
New Vrindaban Temple is a prominent Hindu spiritual center located near Cameron that offers visitors insight into Hindu traditions and practices. The temple complex includes shrines, gardens, and areas for meditation and worship. Visitors can experience vegetarian dining, explore the grounds, and participate in various cultural events throughout the year.
7. West Virginia Penitentiary
HISTORIC GOTHIC PRISON
The West Virginia Penitentiary is a Gothic-style former state prison in Moundsville, just 17 miles from Cameron, that operated from 1876 to 1995. This imposing stone structure is known for its haunted history and has been featured on numerous paranormal investigation shows. Visitors can take daytime historical tours or participate in after-dark ghost hunts to experience this infamous landmark.
8. Grave Creek Mound Archaeological Complex
ANCIENT NATIVE AMERICAN SITE
The Grave Creek Mound Archaeological Complex features one of the largest conical burial mounds in the United States, built by the Adena culture approximately 2,000 years ago. Located in Moundsville near Cameron, this 69-foot-high earthwork contains multiple burial chambers and artifacts from prehistoric Native American civilizations. The adjacent museum offers exhibits on the mound's construction and the archaeological discoveries made at the site.
9. Grand Vue Park
OUTDOOR ADVENTURE DESTINATION
Grand Vue Park is an outdoor recreation area located near Cameron that offers activities including ziplines, hiking trails, and a treetop adventure course. The park features cabins for overnight stays, disc golf courses, and panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. Visitors can enjoy seasonal events, outdoor concerts, and family-friendly activities throughout the year.
10. Fostoria Glass Museum
HISTORIC GLASSMAKING HERITAGE
The Fostoria Glass Museum showcases the history and craftsmanship of the Fostoria Glass Company, which operated in the region from 1891 to 1986. Located in Moundsville near Cameron, the museum displays thousands of pieces of hand-crafted glassware representing various styles and production periods. Visitors can learn about the glassmaking process and the economic importance of this industry to the Northern Panhandle region.
11. Tomlinson Run State Park
NATURAL RECREATION AREA
Tomlinson Run State Park is a scenic outdoor destination in the Northern Panhandle region near Cameron that offers fishing, boating, and swimming opportunities. The park features hiking trails through forested areas, picnic facilities, and campgrounds for overnight stays. Visitors can enjoy the natural beauty of the park's lake, streams, and woodland habitats throughout all four seasons.
12. Oglebay Park
PREMIER RESORT AND GARDENS
Oglebay Park is a 1,700-acre public park and resort located in Wheeling, about 27 miles from Cameron, featuring botanical gardens, a zoo, museums, and golf courses. The park's Wilson Lodge offers accommodations, dining options, and indoor recreation facilities for visitors year-round. During winter months, the park transforms with the Festival of Lights, one of the nation's largest holiday light shows.
13. Wheeling Suspension Bridge
HISTORIC ENGINEERING MARVEL
The Wheeling Suspension Bridge is a National Historic Landmark that was the largest suspension bridge in the world when completed in 1849 and spans the Ohio River. Located in Wheeling near Cameron, this engineering marvel continues to serve as both a transportation link and a symbol of the region's industrial heritage. Visitors can walk across the pedestrian walkway for unique views of the river and city skyline.
14. Capitol Theatre
HISTORIC PERFORMANCE VENUE
The Capitol Theatre is a beautifully restored 1928 vaudeville house and movie palace located in downtown Wheeling, within driving distance of Cameron. This historic venue hosts Broadway shows, concerts, comedy performances, and the famous Wheeling Jamboree, America's second-longest running live radio program. Visitors can enjoy the ornate architecture, including the grand chandelier and decorative plasterwork that exemplify the golden age of American theaters.
15. Mountaineer Casino, Racetrack & Resort
GAMING AND ENTERTAINMENT COMPLEX
Mountaineer Casino, Racetrack & Resort is a premier entertainment destination in the Northern Panhandle region near Cameron that features gaming tables, slot machines, and live thoroughbred racing. The resort includes a hotel, spa, golf course, and multiple dining options for visitors seeking a complete entertainment experience. Live performances, seasonal events, and promotional activities add to the excitement throughout the year.