Wood County, West Virginia

Wood County sits in northwestern West Virginia along the Ohio River, right across from Ohio. It brings together a mix of history, industry, and natural beauty. Parkersburg, the county seat, grew into an important community during the region’s oil and gas boom.

Blennerhassett Island is one of the county’s standout attractions, offering historic sites, scenic river views, and plenty to explore. Industry remains an important part of the local economy, while the arts and cultural scene give the community another way to connect. The Ohio and Little Kanawha Rivers also provide opportunities for fishing, boating, and enjoying the outdoors.

Education is another important part of the area, with West Virginia University at Parkersburg serving local students. Interstate 77 provides convenient connections to surrounding communities and states. Wood County manages to blend modern growth with its historic roots, making it a place with something for just about everyone.

CategoryDetails
County NameWood County
County SeatParkersburg
PopulationApproximately 84,000
Cities, Towns, and CommunitiesParkersburg, Vienna, Williamstown, Mineral Wells, Lubeck
Interstates and HighwaysI-77, US-50, WV-2, WV-14
FIPS Code54-107
Total Area (Land and Water)377 sq mi (Land: 367 sq mi; Water: 10 sq mi)
Adjacent Counties (and Direction) Washington County, Ohio (North), Pleasants County (Northeast), Ritchie County (East), Wirt County (Southeast), Jackson County (South), Meigs County, Ohio (Southwest), Athens County, Ohio (West)
Time ZoneEastern Time Zone (ET)
StateWest Virginia
Coordinates39.2251° N, 81.5429° W
EtymologyNamed after James Wood, a Governor of Virginia
Major LandmarksBlennerhassett Island Historical State Park, Fort Boreman Park, Oil & Gas Museum
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