Six State Parks to See Before Summer Ends
Summer fun is on the schedule at West Virginia State Parks. August is an excellent time for a last-minute vacation, a long weekend, a day trip or all three. Take a break from the back-to-school shopping, get outside and explore our list of the six best state parks to see before summer ends!
1. Cacapon Resort State Park
Cacapon Resort State Park is an excellent location for a summer getaway. Stay in the lodge or rent a cabin. While you’re there, play the 18-hole Robert Trent Jones Sr. Golf Course and dine at the park’s exclusive full-service restaurant.
2. Berkeley Springs State Park
Take time to explore nearby Berkeley Springs State Park. This renowned day-use park features a spa and Roman baths. The warm mineral waters that flow from the springs are a constant 74.3 degrees Fahrenheit. George Washington used to enjoy the same waters here and his “bathtub” is one of the historic sites to see in town.
3. Tygart Lake State Park
Tygart Lake State Park offers three different accommodations to suit your level of adventure: lodge, cottage or campsite. It also features Tygart Lake, a 1,740-acre man-made lake popular for boating, swimming, fishing and other water sports. Anglers consider Tygart Lake to be one of the best bass-fishing waters in the area.
4. Audra State Park
From Tygart Lake, venture out to nearby Audra State Park. People who love the outdoors love Audra! Hike gorgeous woodlands, explore Alum Cave and swim in the Middle Fork River. For those who want to pitch their tent there, Audra State Park is home to a beautiful and popular riverside campground.
5. Prickett’s Fort State Park
Prickett’s Fort State Park is a short drive from both Audra and Tygart Lake. This living history display is a recreation of the original 1774 fort built on what was then the western frontier of colonial Virginia. Throughout the season, visitors may find blacksmiths, spinners, weavers and other traditional artisans at work.
6. Pipestem Resort State Park
Pipestem Resort State Park features scenic overlooks of the Bluestone Gorge, two lodges, vacation cottages, campgrounds, golf courses and restaurants. Ride the aerial tramway 3,600 feet above the Bluestone Gorge. Enjoy music and theater at the outdoor amphitheater. Play traditional golf, or try disc golf, foot golf and FlingGolf. Pipestem Resort State Park has something for everyone!
Don’t let summer get away. Make plans to visit one or all of these West Virginia State Parks today.
