Legendary West Virginia Outfitter Stores: Where Craftsmanship Meets West Virginia Heritage (Currently Open)
There’s something truly special about West Virginia—a state where rugged landscapes meet timeless traditions, where mountain air mixes with the scent of pine and leather, and where craftsmanship is not a trend but a way of life. In a world of mass production, West Virginia outfitter stores stand apart. They carry the spirit of the Mountain State in every thread, every boot, and every handcrafted piece of gear.
From the roaring rivers of Fayetteville to the highlands of Elkins, these legendary stores keep alive the state’s proud heritage of outdoor living. Whether you’re a hiker, hunter, angler, or simply someone who appreciates authentic craftsmanship, these shops are more than retail spaces—they’re living museums of West Virginia’s outdoor culture.
Here’s a journey through the most legendary outfitter stores in West Virginia that are currently open, ready to equip you for your next adventure or simply inspire you with stories of mountain life, hard work, and enduring style.
Adventures on the Gorge Outfitters – Where Every Adventure Begins (Fayetteville)
At the edge of the New River Gorge National Park, Adventures on the Gorge is far more than a rafting company—it’s a full-service outdoor outfitter and resort that embodies the wild heart of West Virginia.
Their outfitter store is stocked with premium outdoor gear, branded apparel, and local goods that celebrate the spirit of the gorge. Whether you’re gearing up for whitewater rafting, ziplining, rock climbing, or a weekend cabin stay, the staff here are seasoned adventurers who live and breathe the outdoor life.
Visitors love:
Technical apparel perfect for river and trail
Locally made souvenirs and gifts
Expert advice on outdoor excursions
Fayetteville itself is a hub for adventurers, and Adventures on the Gorge captures that energy perfectly—making it a must-stop destination for anyone exploring the region.
Water Stone Outdoors – Fayetteville’s Adventure Hub
Just minutes from the New River Gorge Bridge, Water Stone Outdoors has long been one of the most beloved outfitter stores in the state. Since opening in the 1990s, it’s become a cornerstone of the climbing, hiking, and paddling community in West Virginia.
This family-run business offers everything from technical climbing gear and footwear to camping equipment and lifestyle apparel. It’s the kind of place where you can find both the latest high-performance gear and deep, local knowledge about trails, routes, and river conditions.
What makes it legendary:
Expert staff who are active climbers and guides
Community-driven events that support outdoor education
Eco-conscious brands and sustainable products
If you’re planning a day in the Gorge, this is your first stop. The team here will make sure you’re equipped, confident, and connected to the heart of West Virginia’s adventure culture.
Cabela’s Triadelphia – Where the Wild Meets the Modern (The Highlands)
Located at The Highlands shopping center near Wheeling, Cabela’s West Virginia location offers a full-scale outdoor experience that feels like stepping into a national park under one roof.
Inside, you’ll find:
An indoor mountain complete with a waterfall and wildlife displays
An extensive gun library and archery range
A massive selection of hunting, fishing, and camping gear
While Cabela’s is a national brand, its Triadelphia store stands out for its dedication to local culture and West Virginia’s sporting traditions. The staff are knowledgeable locals who understand the nuances of mountain weather, Appalachian hunting seasons, and regional fishing hotspots.
This is where craftsmanship meets cutting-edge gear—a blend of tradition and technology that suits West Virginians perfectly.
Appalachian Outpost – Handcrafted Style in the Heart of the Mountains (Fayetteville)
Nestled among the charming shops and restaurants of downtown Fayetteville, Appalachian Outpost is a celebration of local artisans, outdoor lifestyle, and mountain pride.
This store specializes in handcrafted goods, West Virginia-made apparel, and outdoor accessories that reflect the state’s rugged beauty and craftsmanship.
Favorites include:
Locally printed T-shirts and hats featuring Appalachian designs
Small-batch leather goods and candles
Regional products made by West Virginia artisans
Appalachian Outpost is the perfect stop for those who appreciate authentic craftsmanship—where every item tells a story and every purchase supports local makers.
The Outdoorsman’s Shop – A Classic for Hunters and Anglers (Fairmont)
For decades, The Outdoorsman’s Shop in Fairmont has been a trusted resource for West Virginians who live for the hunt and the catch. This locally owned outfitter caters to hunters, anglers, and outdoor enthusiasts with a wide selection of firearms, archery equipment, and fishing tackle.
You’ll find:
Expert gunsmithing and bow tuning services
Seasonal hunting gear and clothing
A friendly, knowledgeable staff who treat customers like family
What sets this shop apart is its old-school service—the kind that’s becoming rare. The Outdoorsman’s Shop combines quality gear with personal advice and small-town warmth, keeping West Virginia’s outdoor heritage alive one customer at a time.
Sporting Goods Discounters – Trusted by Generations (Clarksburg)
Another long-standing name in West Virginia’s outfitter scene, Sporting Goods Discounters in Clarksburg has been serving hunters, campers, and anglers for years. It’s the kind of place locals swear by because it delivers value, reliability, and community connection.
Here you’ll find:
High-quality hunting and fishing equipment
Outdoor apparel from trusted brands
Friendly, personalized service rooted in decades of experience
Whether you’re gearing up for deer season or shopping for a family camping trip, this store offers the essentials with a personal touch—true to West Virginia’s family-oriented traditions.
Blackwater Outdoor Adventures – Gear Up for the River (St. George)
Located near the stunning Blackwater Falls State Park, Blackwater Outdoor Adventures (BOA) is both a guiding company and an outfitter store for paddlers, campers, and river enthusiasts.
Their shop stocks paddling gear, helmets, wetsuits, and branded merchandise, all designed for West Virginia’s wild and scenic rivers.
Visitors can:
Rent kayaks or rafts for self-guided trips
Book guided adventures through scenic waterways
Shop for gear and apparel to remember their trip
BOA is famous for blending thrills and family fun, making it one of the top outfitters for both adrenaline junkies and first-time paddlers.
Elkins Sewing Center – A Different Kind of Craftsmanship (Elkins)
While most outfitter stores focus on outdoor adventure, Elkins Sewing Center keeps alive another vital part of West Virginia’s heritage—the craft of making.
This family-owned business has been operating for decades, providing high-quality fabric, sewing machines, and workshops for those who cherish craftsmanship and tradition.
You’ll find:
Top-tier brands like Bernina and Janome
Expert instruction and repairs
A welcoming community of artisans
Elkins Sewing Center represents the quieter, creative side of West Virginia’s craftsmanship—proof that “outfitting” can also mean equipping people to create, repair, and sustain traditions.
Backwater Guns & Outfitters – Premium Gear for Serious Outdoorsmen (Hurricane)
Located in Hurricane, West Virginia, Backwater Guns & Outfitters offers a premium selection of firearms, archery equipment, and outdoor apparel for hunting and fishing enthusiasts.
What makes it stand out is its commitment to service and its carefully curated inventory. Whether you’re preparing for duck season, sighting in a new rifle, or just updating your gear, the knowledgeable staff ensures you get exactly what you need.
Customers appreciate:
A wide range of top outdoor brands
Friendly, one-on-one guidance
Specialized gear for West Virginia’s unique terrain
This outfitter exemplifies the modern mountain lifestyle, combining high-end products with a hometown feel.
Mountain State Outfitters – Outdoor Passion Meets Local Expertise (Morgantown)
In the heart of Morgantown, Mountain State Outfitters is a locally loved store for hikers, runners, and climbers. It caters to the outdoor community with gear from premium brands like Patagonia, The North Face, and Osprey.
The staff, all outdoor enthusiasts themselves, offer insider tips on trails and regional adventures, making every visit both a shopping trip and a mini adventure consultation.
Expect to find:
Backpacking and camping gear
Outdoor apparel for all seasons
Community-driven events and workshops
Mountain State Outfitters blends modern retail with mountain soul—a place where you’re not just buying gear, you’re joining a lifestyle.
WVU Outdoor Recreation Center – For the Next Generation of Adventurers (Morgantown)
At West Virginia University, the Outdoor Recreation Center introduces students and visitors to the wild side of the Mountain State. This facility offers equipment rentals, guided trips, and workshops for activities like backpacking, climbing, and kayaking.
It’s open to the public and acts as a bridge between academic life and the state’s outdoor culture. By teaching new generations how to safely explore and respect nature, the WVU Outdoor Recreation Center continues West Virginia’s long tradition of self-reliance and outdoor passion.
Why West Virginia’s Outfitters Stand Apart
What ties these legendary outfitter stores together isn’t just their gear—it’s their commitment to authenticity. Each shop reflects a piece of West Virginia’s character: resilience, craftsmanship, and an unshakable love for the outdoors.
From the skilled artisans at Appalachian Outpost to the adventure experts at Water Stone Outdoors, these stores prove that outfitting in West Virginia is about more than selling—it’s about serving the community, protecting traditions, and celebrating the beauty of the wild.
Whether you’re chasing trout through mountain streams, climbing the cliffs of the New River Gorge, or just searching for that perfect handcrafted souvenir, these outfitters connect you to the heart of Appalachia.
Conclusion: Equip Yourself for Adventure and Tradition
The legendary outfitter stores of West Virginia do more than sell outdoor gear—they preserve a way of life. They remind us that true craftsmanship never goes out of style, and that adventure starts with preparation, pride, and passion.
So next time you’re exploring the Mountain State, step inside one of these shops. Talk to the owners. Hear their stories. Feel the quality of their work.
Whether you leave with a pair of boots, a paddle, or a handmade leather belt, you’ll be taking home more than gear—you’ll be carrying a piece of West Virginia heritage.
Support local craftsmanship. Explore the outdoors. And experience the legendary outfitter spirit that makes West Virginia truly one of a kind.