For the high quality of her literary work, she was awarded the Nobel Prize for Literature in 1938. Ms. Buck is the only American women to ever receive both of these awards. The park is noted for its unusual rock formations which are comprised of Droop and Pottsville Sandstone for during the Pennsylvanian Age. Faulting and erosion of the sandstone capping the mountain has created a unique system of 'sunken streets' in this town of rocks. A boardwalk permits easy access to a number of observation points for visitors.
Interpretive signs provide insight into the fascinating ecology of the area.
Civil War Sites Pocahontas is home to many important Civil War sites. Droop Mountain - West Virginia's last significant Civil War battle occurred on November 6, 1863. Droop Mountain is considered the oldest state park in West Virginia. Union soldiers were intercepted and the action resulted at the cost of one Federal and eight Confederate casualties. Confederate trenches are visible on the open hillside southeast of present day motel.