Relax & recharge ahead of the school season

Book a spa treatment at a West Virginia state park

School is back in session soon and with it comes the scramble to get the kids up, fed and out the door. There’s homework to be checked and shuttling to and from sports practices and club activities. And that’s just for the parents! Teachers will be busy with their lesson plans and grading papers, tutoring, meetings and more. Sounds like some grownups could use a break to relax and recharge before diving into the fall season. So why not treat yourself to a spa session at a West Virginia state park?

Newly renovated resort

Plan a visit to the state park system’s newest spa. Healing Waters Spa at Cacapon Resort State Park offers a full menu of services including massages, facials, manicures and pedicures, and even full body treatments. One unique aspect of the spa is its massages that are designed to target specific muscles used in golfing and hiking—two of the most popular activities at Cacapon. Healing Waters Spa is just one part of the extensive remodeling Cacapon has undergone in the past year. Additional improvements include the construction of new guest rooms and remodeling of existing guest rooms, a new restaurant, lounge, indoor heated pool and whirlpool, fitness center, and multiple spaces for outdoor gatherings.

America’s first spa

Just down the road from the park system’s newest spa, you’ll find its oldest one. In fact, Native Americans were coming to bathe in the warm mineral waters now known as Berkeley Springs State Park long before the United States became a country. The park is best known for its private walk-in Roman baths which hold 750 gallons of mineral water sourced directly from the spring and heated to 102 degrees. Treat yourself to a soak after a day of shopping and exploring in the artsy town of Berkeley Springs. And while you’re there, be sure to check out George Washington’s Bathtub—a replica of the stone pool the young surveyor (and later, president) soaked in during his visits to the area.

Luxury treatment

If you really want to pamper yourself, Mtn. Laurel Spa is the way to go. Located at Stonewall Resort State Park, the spa offers a full range of traditional services as well as unique treatments like warm bamboo massage and nature scrubs. It’s a great way to relax after a day of boating on the 2,630-acre lake or playing a round of golf on the Arnold Palmer Signature Course. Follow up your spa treatment with a gourmet meal at one of the resort’s acclaimed restaurants and then settle in for a comfy evening by the fire pit outside. Ahhhh, now that’s relaxing!