There’s something magical about taking a road trip to your favorite West Virginia state park. As summer winds down, load the family into the car for one last trip of the season and make some memories that will last through the winter and beyond.

Here are six West Virginia state parks (plus a few bonus ones) that are perfect for a long Labor Day weekend road trip.

Chief Logan State Park

In the heart of Southern West Virginia and in close proximity to several trailheads of the Hatfield McCoy Trails system, Chief Logan State Park is a favorite among off-road riders near and far. 

Day 1
Load up the ATVs and head over to Cabwaylingo State Forest where you can spend the day riding the Cabwaylingo Trail. Finish your day with a hot meal and a relaxing soak in the spa tub at Chief Logan Lodge. 

Day 2
Start off you day by casting a line at Chief Logan Lake. This also makes a great spot to enjoy a picnic lunch, so be sure to pack some snacks before you head out. After fueling up, pay a visit to the Museum in the Park, which features artwork and historical items from the collection of the West Virginia State Museum.

Day 3
For the third day, hike or bike the park’s 18-mile trail system. Take in some afternoon sun and enjoy the last outdoor swim of the season at Chief Logan’s outdoor pool.

Tygart Lake State Park

Just four miles north of Grafton, Tygart Lake State Park is known for its 10-mile long, 1,750-acre lake, which offers activities like boating, fishing, and a brand-new Adventure Lake.

Day 1

Start your morning off with 18 holes at Tygart Lake Golf Course. Cool off with an afternoon dip at Tygart Adventure Lake and take on all the floating obstacles. The adults will love the giant slides and inflatables just as much as the kids. After burn a ton of calories, enjoy a delicious dinner at the Lodge Restaurant.

Day 2

Hit the lake again — this time for boating and/or fishing. You can get your West Virginia fishing license at www.wvfish.com. Kayak, canoe and SUP board rentals are available at the Adventure Lake. Take a drive over to Valley Falls State Park for a picnic and hike. Did you hear about the nation’s first waterfall trail? Download your free West Virginia Waterfall Trail mobile passport and check in at nearby falls. Enjoy a campfire-prepared meal at your cozy cabin or campsite later that night.

Day 3

For the final day, go on a treasure hunt! Put your skills to the test and find the 12 hidden geocache sites within the park. Hit the lake again for one last swim of the season. Before you head home, take a tour of Prickett’s Fort State Park, which commemorates late 18th century life on the Virginia frontier.

Hawks Nest State Park

If you’re planning a visit to the New River Gorge National Park and Preserve, Hawks Nest State Park makes the perfect base camp. The park’s newly renovated, full-service lodge is set on the rim of the Gorge and features spectacular views.

Day 1

Go waterfall hunting! Check in at several falls on the West Virginia Waterfall Trail, including Turkey Run Falls in Hawks Nest and Mill Creek Falls off the Ansted Rail Trail. Spend the afternoon hiking at Babcock State Park. Visit the Glade Creek Grist Mill and check in at more waterfalls on your mobile passport. Wrap up your evening with dinner at Hawks Nest Lodge Restaurant.

Day 2

Head into the national park for a day of adventure. Enjoy an adrenaline-charged whitewater rafting trip on the New River (book your reservation in advance). Or, tour the New River on a jet boat excursion; these 30-minute trips are appropriate for all ages. Visit Canyon Rim Visitor Center and take in views of the iconic New River Gorge Bridge. Hike scenic trails and check in at locations on the West Virginia Waterfall Trail. Finish the day with a meal at one of the many wonderful local restaurants in the Fayetteville-Oak Hill area. 

Day 3

For the grand finale, get a sneak peek at West Virginia’s newest addition to the park system, Summersville Lake State Park. The park sits on the northern shore of the state’s largest lake, about an hour from Hawk’s Nest. Campgrounds, cabins and other amenities are coming soon, but in the meantime you can still enjoy hiking and lake activities. (It’s also the last weekend to experience the lake at full capacity before water is released from the dam for Gauley Season.)

Audra State Park

Located in southwestern Barbour County and a portion of Upshur County, Audra State Park is a heavily wooded area bisected by the Middle Fork River. This beautiful state park is situated on 355 acres boasting many recreational opportunities.

Day 1

Looking for a two-wheeled journey? Start off your day by mountain biking through Audra State Park, which has several scenic miles of trails. While you’re out and about, try your luck at geocaching on one of the five designated trails. Finish your day off by making s’mores around your campfire at your campsite, one of 65 sites available to enjoy.

Day 2

For day 2, consider getting out on the water and getting some early-morning fishing in. enjoying the waves. Whitewater enthusiasts love boating on the Middle Fork River. Purchase your West Virginia fishing license and trout stamp, which are both required and available to purchase at www.wvfish.com. Afterward, take your family out on a picnic near the Middle Fork River and enjoy the view. While you’re out by the water, stick around a while and cool off with a swim.

Day 3

Top cap off your trip, take a morning walk on the boardwalk built along the Alum Cave’s overhanging ledge. Pack a lunch with you and pick a spot to relax and enjoy the scenery. After you’re packed up, drive over to the town of Buckhannon and grab dinner at one of the local restaurants.

Cacapon Resort State Park

In the Eastern Panhandle, Cacapon Resort State Park makes an ideal getaway for folks from the D.C.-Baltimore area. The resort offers a wide range of amenities and its lodge and cabins are newly renovated.

Day 1
Play 18 holes of championship golf at this state park’s beautiful golf course. You can also book a guided horseback ride into the countryside. Cap off your day by enjoying dinner at the Lodge Restaurant.

Day 2
Spend the morning fishing on one of Cacapon’s two small lakes. Take your adventure beyond the lake by going on an an afternoon hike around the region. Feeling a little sore from all that activity? Pamper yourself with a session at the resort’s Healing Waters Spa.

Day 3
For day three, enjoy a big breakfast at the Lodge. Visit Berkeley Springs and explore charming art galleries, shops and restaurants. Take home some fresh spring water from Berkeley Springs State Park, known as America’s First Spa.

Watoga State Park

Set in the remote Allegheny Mountains, Watoga State Park is the perfect place for stargazing. It was designated an official Dark Sky Park by the International Dark-Sky Association.

Day 1

Cast a line in Watoga Lake or the Greenbrier River. Explore more than 40 miles of hiking and biking trails. Enjoy a home-cooked meal at your cozy cabin or campsite.

Day 2

Start off day two by taking a boat ride on Watoga Lake. (Paddle boats, row boats, canoes and kayaks are available for rent.) Explore Civil War history at Droop Mountain Battlefield State Park and discover amazing rock formations at Beartown State Park, both just a short drive from Watoga. Bring your telescope and spend the evening stargazing at the expansive heavens. 

Day 3

Drive north to Cass Scenic Railroad. Ride an antique steam locomotive up the mountain where you can tour an old logging camp and take in breathtaking views. Wrap up your trip with lunch at Shay’s Restaurant at Cass.

Plan Ahead

Don’t forget to download your West Virginia Waterfall Trail mobile passport. On your travels throughout Almost Heaven, check in at waterfalls and earn prizes! Time’s a wasting… Book your West Virginia State Park getaway today and experience the Labor Day Weekend of a lifetime.

Book Now