It might still be cold outside, but it’s never too early to start thinking about warm sunshine, the sweet smell of blooming flowers and the melodic tunes of songbirds. West Virginia state parks truly blossom with activity when spring comes around. So, throw off your winter parka and start making plans to enjoy all springtime has to offer in the Mountain State. These five state parks that will have you dreaming of spring.

Babcock State Park

Babcock State Park is home to the Glade Creek Grist Mill, one of the state’s most photographed locations. Enjoy 4,127 acres of rhododendron-lined trails and rippling, rock-strewn streams in this iconic West Virginia location. While taking in the splendor of Babcock’s beauty, enjoy springtime recreation such as biking, fishing, geocaching and boating. When you need a place to stay, Babcock has 13 cabins along Glade Creek, and several others around the park to choose from. Cabins are available beginning mid-April, so book your stay now!

Seneca State Forest

Imagine staying in the West Virginia mountains high above the trees with nothing obscuring your view of lush woodlands for miles and miles. As the sun sets, you delight from your high perch at the brilliant show before you. And finally, when darkness comes, you look up to the sky and see millions of twinkling stars illuminating the black blanket of space. That is what it’s like staying in the Fire Tower at Seneca State Forest. The iconic Fire Tower offers 360-degrees of spectacular views. Even better, you can stay there overnight! This place is popular, so book now!

If the Fire Tower is booked, Seneca State Forest has eight cabins that will take your family back to the pioneer days. Live like an early West Virginia settler and enjoy the rugged nature of your surroundings. During your stay, enjoy the park’s many recreational opportunities, including hiking and biking the forest’s 23 miles of winding trails, and boating and swimming in Seneca Lake and the Greenbrier River. Hunting and fishing is permitted in the forest, but a West Virginia license is required.

Holly River State Park

The dense forests of Holly River State Park envelop you with a gorgeous natural setting where you can find true peace and solitude. The park offers many recreational opportunities including hiking, biking, fishing, geocaching and tennis. Holly River State Park is known for a wide range of flora, including wildflowers and ferns. This makes Holly River a perfect springtime retreat for flower enthusiasts. The park boasts 10 furnished cabins featuring warm, stone fireplaces. Cabins are constructed of natural stone and logs and are perfectly nestled in a peaceful setting of rhododendron and sturdy hemlock.

Twin Falls Resort State Park

Twin Falls Resort State Park is the ideal site for nature lovers. In the spring, enjoy the park’s natural landscapes on 12 different trails that vary in degree and difficulty. From remote wooded paths to scenic walks to the “Twin Falls,” this park is the perfect destination for springtime lovers. Other activities include golfing at the 18-hole course designed by Geoffrey Cornish and George Cobb. Spring is also great for ATV enthusiasts. Just a short drive from Twin Falls, you can enjoy the famous Hatfield-McCoy Trails. The Pinnacle Creek Trailhead is only 15 miles from the park in Pineville. After your adventures, unwind at the Twin Falls Resort Lodge or one of the park’s 14 secluded cabins.

Bluestone State Park

Bluestone State Park is known for its wild and beautiful landscape. The park’s more than 2,000 acres of forest and rugged mountain terrain are perfect for hiking, fishing and camping. As the weather gets warmer, you can enjoy time out on the Bluestone’s beautiful crystal clear water. Have fun with your family on a pontoon boat or take a few romantic laps with your partner in a kayak. Boat rentals are available at Bluestone marina. After a long day on the lake, relax in one of Bluestones modern cabins, tucked into the woodlands of this wild and wonderful mountainous landscape.

Are you ready for a spring vacation? Planning a trip now can save you time and money and help you use up your unused vacation days!

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