Point Park, commonly referred to as, The Point, is a riverfront park located in downtown Parkersburg, WV. It’s one of the most popular attractions here in the area, known for scenic sunsets, events, and of course, it’s where you board the Island Belle Sternwheeler to Blennerhassett Island.

It sits right at the confluence of the Little Kanawha and Ohio Rivers, and it is a popular spot for locals to go fishing, picnicking, or just having a pleasant walk.

History of Point Park

Originally just referred to as “The Point,” Point Park is the site of Parkersburg’s second oldest point of settlement. George Washington himself visited the Point during his trip down the Ohio River in 1770. James Monroe visited in 1785 and George Rogers Clark shortly after.

The State of Virginia had built a shelter to house soldiers there in 1792. The first Wood County courthouse was also built at the Point after the settlement selected it as the county seat in November 1800. This was a two-story log structure located at the corner of First and Juliana streets. During the Civil War, the city’s finest hotel, the Swann House was close by, a magnet for army officers, politicians, oil men, merchants, and many travelers.

In the 1920s and 1930s, Murphy’s Park was created and lasted until the construction of the Parkersburg flood wall 1946 – 1950. In 1982, Murphy’s Park was renamed to Point Park, a venture developed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and administered by the city of Parkersburg. In 2010-11 the park underwent a major renovation and expansion.

Parkersburg Ohio River Trail (PORT)

On October 18, 2023, the City of Parkersburg officially opened the Parkersburg Ohio River Trail (PORT). The trail has been in development for more than 20 years, and the project is still ongoing. The plan is to create a multiuse trail system that connects Parkersburg to Marietta, OH, and the North Bend Rail Trail.

Currently, the PORT extends 2.6 miles. It’s a carry-in, carry-out and leave no trace trail with natural habitats along the way. It’s a 10 ft wide paved trail with occasionally some incline, perfect for walkers and bikers. You may even spot some interesting critters and some photogenic views during your walk!

This article was human written by the staff of the Greater Parkersburg CVB.