Located in Charleston, West Virginia (in Kanawha County), Fort Scammon—also known as Camp White or Fort Hill—offers you a unique window into American Civil War history. Sitting atop the prominence known today as "Fort Hill," this intriguing archaeological site was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1976.
When you visit, you can explore the preserved earthenwork battlements that Union forces set up in an distinctive elliptical pattern. The site's historical significance dates back to late summer in 1862, a pivotal time when Confederate artillery actively fired from this very area.
Following that conflict, Union troops took over the heights and fortified them starting in March 1863, occupying the position for about a year. If you are passionate about local heritage, ancient battle sites, or Civil War history, Fort Scammon provides a quiet, authentic setting where you can stand directly on historic grounds, reflect on the past, and appreciate the strategic defense earthworks carved into the West Virginia landscape.
What to see at Fort Scammon
- Historic earthenwork battlements arranged in an elliptical pattern
- Civil War site occupied by both Confederate and Union forces
- Dating back to artillery fire in the late summer of 1862
- Listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1976
Visiting tips
Take time to observe the unique elliptical layout of the 1863 Union battlements while exploring the historic heights of Fort Hill.
How long: 1-2 hours · Best time: Late summer
How to get there & what’s nearby
Fort Scammon is easy to reach on Charleston’s public transport, and pairs naturally with West Virginia State Museum and African Zion Baptist Church. For where to stay, the weather and full itineraries, see our Charleston travel guide.
See the full Charleston travel guide for where to stay, the best time to visit and the top things to do.