6 WV state park adventures to add to your summer bucket list
Summer vacations are all about outdoor adventures and making memories with loved ones. West Virginia’s state parks and forests are some of the best places to do both! From hiking to scenic overlooks to splashing in the lake, there’s no shortage of things to do during the summer. As vacation season continues, here are six things you should add to your list!
1. Splish and Splash at the Tygart Lake or Pipestem Resort Adventure Lakes
Summers are made for beach trips and pool days, but we have something ever better — adventure lakes at Pipestem Resort and Tygart Lake state parks. Kids and kids at heart will enjoy jumping in the lake and climbing giant inflatable mountains and trampolines. Each adventure lake offers all-day and half-day sessions.
Pipestem Adventure Lake
All-Day Session: 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. ($19)
Half Day Session: 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. or 2 p.m. to 6 p.m. ($15)
Tygart Lake Adventure Lake
All-Day Session: 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. ($18)
Half Day Session: 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. or 2 p.m. to 6 p.m. ($14)
2. Ride the New Cabwaylingo ATV Trail
With 80 miles of wheel-spinning, mud-slinging, off-road exhilaration, the Cabwayling ATV Trail is the can’t-miss outdoor attraction of 2021 in West Virginia and the most exciting way to enjoy the scenic beauty of Cabwaylingo State Forest. The Cabwaylingo Trail is also part of the Hatfield McCoy Trails system, which means you have access to hundreds of additional miles of ATV trails to enjoy. You also can use the trail as a launching point for outdoor adventures at other popular state parks, such as Chief Logan State Park and Twin Falls Resort State Park.
Need help planning your ATV adventures? Click here for five things you need to know about the Cabwaylingo Trail.
3. Soar through treetops on the Pipestem Peaks Zipline
Forget about roller coasters when you can experience the thrill of soaring through the Bluestone River Gorge on the Pipestem Peaks Zipline. This canopy tour features panoramic views of lush forest and a rushing river that will satisfy adventure seekers and nature lovers. The Pipestem Peaks Zipline Tour consists of nine zips, one cable bridge and one belay. The longest zip is 1,600 feet, speeds reach 50 mph and the highest point in the trip is 350 feet off the ground.
4. Go Horseback Riding at Cacapon or Camp Creek
Hiking is the most popular way to enjoy the trails at West Virginia’s state parks, but several parks offer the opportunity to explore the mountains by horseback. Parks with stables and guided trail rides include Cacapon, Lost River and Pipestem Resort State Park. If you want to travel with your horse and enjoy the trails at your own pace, Camp Creek State Park and Forest and Holly River State Park offer horseback riding trails and equestrian camping.
5. Hike to a Waterfall
In the heat of the summer, there’s nothing like standing near a waterfall, where the air is cool and the vibes are chill. From the towering Blackwater Falls to the river-wide Valley Falls, waterfalls are one of the most popular attractions at West Virginia’s state parks and forests.
Click here to read about this summer’s five must-see state park waterfalls.
6. Go Camping
Camping at a West Virginia state park or forest is one of the best ways to connect with nature. There’s tent camping at Audra State Park or Coopers Rock State Forest. Spend the night in one of our unique stays – like the highly sought-after Thorny Mountain Fire Tower in the Seneca State Forest. Hook up the RV and relax by the lake at Beech Fork State Park.
First time camping at a West Virginia State Park? Check out these camping pro tips and book your trip today!
Use our bucket list or create your own. The great thing about summer vacation at a West Virginia state park is that the opportunities for family fun and outdoor adventure are endless. Plan your trip today!
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