Cities and Towns in Morgan County, West Virginia
Founded in 1820, Morgan County is one of 55 counties in the state of West Virginia. Historically, Morgan County was formed from Berkeley and Hampshire counties. The city of Berkeley Springs is the county seat. With FIPS code of 65, Morgan County has a population of 17,221 and area of 229 square miles (593 km²).
List of all cities in Morgan County, WV alphabetically
| City/Town | Postal Code | Area Code |
| Berkeley Springs, WV | 25411 | 304 |
| Great Cacapon, WV | 25422 | 304 |
| Hancock, WV | 25411 | 304 |
| Paw Paw, WV | 25434 | 304 |
| Unger, WV | 25411 | 304 |
Major Cities and Towns in Morgan County, West Virginia
Morgan County is located in the eastern panhandle of West Virginia, bordered by Maryland to the north and Virginia to the south. Known for its beautiful countryside and small-town charm, Morgan County is home to a rich history and a close-knit community. The county seat, Berkeley Springs, is a popular tourist destination due to its natural springs and historic spas, attracting visitors seeking relaxation and wellness. The county’s economy has traditionally been based on agriculture, but it has seen growth in tourism, local businesses, and outdoor recreation, thanks to its proximity to the Appalachian Mountains and the Chesapeake and Ohio Canal National Historical Park. Below are the major towns in Morgan County, each with a distinct history and modern amenities that serve both locals and visitors.
Berkeley Springs
Location and History
Berkeley Springs, the county seat of Morgan County, is located in the eastern part of the state, near the border with Maryland. The town is famous for its natural warm springs, which have been a destination for healing and relaxation for centuries. Originally known as “Warm Springs,” it was frequented by Native Americans before European settlers arrived in the late 1700s. The town became an important spa resort during the 19th century, attracting visitors seeking the therapeutic benefits of the spring waters. George Washington, the first U.S. president, was one of the town’s most notable visitors, visiting Berkeley Springs frequently. Today, Berkeley Springs retains much of its historical charm and remains a popular spot for visitors seeking relaxation in the town’s mineral springs, which are housed in the historic Berkeley Springs State Park.
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude
- Area: 1.3 square miles
- Population: Approximately 650
- Zip Codes: 25411
- Latitude: 39.6252° N
- Longitude: 78.2259° W
Major Schools and Landmarks
Berkeley Springs is served by the Morgan County School District, with schools such as Berkeley Springs High School and Warm Springs Intermediate School offering educational opportunities for local children. The town’s major landmark is Berkeley Springs State Park, which houses the famous warm springs and provides a relaxing environment for visitors. The park also features a bathhouse, which was built in the early 1900s and offers spa services. In addition to the park, Berkeley Springs is home to the Berkeley Springs Castle, an iconic structure that overlooks the town. The town’s historic district features several 19th-century buildings, including antique shops and art galleries, further adding to its charm. The annual Berkeley Springs International Water Tasting event, held every February, celebrates the town’s historic association with mineral waters. These landmarks make Berkeley Springs a unique blend of history, natural beauty, and cultural heritage.
Paw Paw
Location and History
Paw Paw is a small town located in the western part of Morgan County, near the Potomac River. The town’s name is derived from the native pawpaw fruit, which grows abundantly in the area. Originally settled in the early 19th century, Paw Paw was an agricultural community that also served as a transportation hub due to its location along the C&O Canal. The town was an important stop for canal boats during the 1800s. Though the canal ceased operation in the late 1800s, Paw Paw’s agricultural roots remain strong, with farming and local businesses continuing to shape the town’s economy. Paw Paw’s rural charm and its proximity to the Potomac River make it a peaceful and scenic town, ideal for outdoor enthusiasts.
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude
- Area: 0.4 square miles
- Population: Approximately 400
- Zip Codes: 25434
- Latitude: 39.4199° N
- Longitude: 78.4754° W
Major Schools and Landmarks
Paw Paw is served by the Morgan County School District, with Paw Paw High School providing education for local students. The town is known for its historical landmarks, including the remnants of the Chesapeake and Ohio Canal, which runs alongside the Potomac River. The canal path is now used for hiking and biking and offers beautiful views of the river and surrounding countryside. The nearby Potomac River is a popular spot for fishing, boating, and kayaking, while the area around Paw Paw offers ample opportunities for outdoor recreation. Additionally, Paw Paw is known for the Paw Paw Tunnel, an engineering marvel that once allowed canal boats to bypass the rugged terrain along the river. The town’s small-town atmosphere, combined with its historical significance and access to outdoor activities, makes it an appealing destination for those seeking tranquility and adventure.
Great Cacapon
Location and History
Great Cacapon is an unincorporated community located along the Cacapon River in the southern part of Morgan County. The town was established in the early 19th century and was originally a thriving agricultural center. Its name is derived from the Cacapon River, which was named by Native Americans and means “medicine waters,” likely referring to the river’s role in the area’s early trade and settlement. Great Cacapon was also once home to a number of mills and industries, and the arrival of the Baltimore and Ohio Railroad in the late 1800s further connected the community to the larger region. Today, Great Cacapon is a quiet rural community that offers scenic views of the river and surrounding mountains, making it a popular spot for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life.
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude
- Area: 0.5 square miles
- Population: Approximately 200
- Zip Codes: 25422
- Latitude: 39.4731° N
- Longitude: 78.2770° W
Major Schools and Landmarks
Great Cacapon is served by the Morgan County School District, with children attending local schools such as Great Cacapon Elementary School. One of the key landmarks in the area is the Cacapon River, which provides opportunities for fishing, kayaking, and swimming. The surrounding countryside offers a peaceful, rural atmosphere, with numerous hiking trails, including those leading to nearby state forests and parks. The town also has a historic general store, which has served the community for over a century, and the Cacapon State Park, located nearby, is a popular destination for camping, hiking, and birdwatching. The natural beauty of the area, combined with its rich history, makes Great Cacapon a charming and quiet place to live and visit.
The Settlement of Morgan County
Location and History
Morgan County was established in 1820 and is named after General Daniel Morgan, a hero of the American Revolution. The county’s location along the Potomac River, near the Maryland border, has made it a strategic area historically, both for settlement and transportation. Early settlers in Morgan County were primarily farmers, and the arrival of the Chesapeake and Ohio Canal in the mid-1800s further encouraged growth in the area. Morgan County has seen a shift from an agricultural economy to one focused on tourism, particularly in towns like Berkeley Springs, which is known for its mineral springs. The area has also gained attention for its proximity to major national parks and outdoor recreational opportunities, such as the C&O Canal National Historical Park and the Appalachian Trail.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Morgan County is served by the Morgan County School District, which provides a range of educational opportunities, from elementary to high school. Major landmarks in the county include the famous Berkeley Springs State Park, known for its historic baths, as well as the nearby Cacapon State Park, which offers hiking, fishing, and camping. The Chesapeake and Ohio Canal, which passes through the county, is another significant historical landmark. The natural beauty of the county’s river valleys and mountains continues to draw tourists and residents alike, contributing to the county’s economy. With a rich history, stunning landscapes, and a growing reputation as a destination for outdoor activities, Morgan County offers both residents and visitors a peaceful, scenic environment to enjoy.