The article below was originally published by WV News.

The upcoming stargazing cabins at Coopers Rock State Forest are already being recognized for excellence, even before their grand opening. These A-frame cabins—positioned between the Coopers Rock Overlook and Ravens Rock—have received two 2025 AIA Honor Awards from the West Virginia Chapter of the American Institute of Architects.

Designed by ZMM Architects and Engineers, the cabins were honored for Excellence in Architecture and Excellence in Craftsmanship, highlighting their unique layout and skyward focus.

The cabins are the first in West Virginia created specifically for stargazing. Each unit includes:

• Floor-to-ceiling windows
• Retractable skylights
• High-powered telescopes
• A site chosen to reduce light pollution

The design prioritizes a clear view of the night sky while offering a comfortable stay in one of West Virginia’s most scenic outdoor areas.

Initially expected to open in 2024, the stargazing cabins now have a projected completion date of 2025 due to construction delays, according to the West Virginia State Parks website. ZMM Architects also reflect this timeline on their site.

These cabins are expected to become a major draw for travelers interested in dark-sky tourism, adding another layer to the recreational experience at Coopers Rock State Forest—a top destination for hiking, rock climbing, and scenic overlooks.

For the latest information on the cabin opening, reservations, and photos of the construction progress, visit wvstateparks.com or follow the West Virginia Department of Tourism on social media.

A similar story was published by WBOY and Yahoo! News.