Water adventures and outdoor thrills await at Tygart Lake
Who needs the beach when you can enjoy scenic mountain views and water adventures close to home? Located in the foothills of the Allegheny Mountains in scenic north central West Virginia, Tygart Lake State Park and it’s 10 miles of shoreline and peaceful setting provides a great place for lakeside retreats and family vacations. Here’s what you need to know to plan a trip.
Featured Activities at Tygart Lake
There are plenty of outdoor adventures to enjoy at Tygart Lake, but the main attraction for summer 2021 is the park’s new adventure lake. The Tygart Adventure Lake features 25 giant inflatables and a sandy beach area with lounge chairs. Whether you want to kick back, relax and soak up the sun or feel like a kid again by jumping into the water, the adventure lake is a great place for families to enjoy summer fun. The adventure lake is open daily from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. The lake will close for the season on Sept. 6, 2021, so book your trip before it’s too late!
Tygart Lake also has the following activities:
- Boating (Pontoon and fishing boats available to rent)
- Kayaking
- Fishing (Purchase your fishing license at WVfish.com)
- Weekly Nature Center activities, such as guided hikes, outdoor move night and campfires with s’mores
Featured Trails at Tygart Lake
Take a leisurely stroll through the forest or speed down dirt paths. However you enjoy the trails Tygart Lake, there’s plenty of ground to cover during your visit. Tygart Lake has five hiking trails and one trail for hiking and biking. Here are a few of our favorite:
The trail begins opposite Dam Trail near the Lodge passing through the forest with numerous dogwood trees. Trail climbs to a higher elevation above the lodge following a ridge top and descending back on the park road from the dam.
Distance: 2 miles
Difficulty: Moderate
This trail begins near campsite 21. This is an intermediate directional trail that makes a 2.0-mile loop on the south end of the park. You will see two old farmhouse foundations, a rock cliff hang over, and an old 1940-1945 school bus. For mountain bikers, the trail has a little bit of everything. Small run off stream crossings, hill climbs, rock gardens, a Little Rock drop, banked turns, and some downhill flow.
Distance: 2-mile loop
Walking Time: 40-50 minutes
Riding Time: 15-25 minutes
Difficulty: Moderate
Beginning near the park office, this trail passes through what was once a farm before ending between Cabin 5 and the campground. The trail has hills.
Distance: 1.5 miles
Difficulty: Moderate
Places to Stay at Tygart Lake
Lodge
Tygart Lake’s 20-room lodge sits up high on a peninsula that overlooks the lake below. If you’re looking for a waterside retreat, this is it. From kayak and canoe rentals to swimming and fishing, Tygart Lake is an outdoor oasis waiting to be discovered. Select lodge rooms are pet-friendly, so double-check your reservations before bringing your furry friend. Click here to book your lodge room today!
Cabins
Tygart Lake has 11 cozy cabins perfect for quiet getaways with family or loved ones. Six cabins overlook the park’s stunning blue lake. If you enjoy boating and lake activities, these cabins don’t disappoint. Designated pet-friendly cabins also are available. Ten cabins are available mid-April through the end of December 31 and one cabin is reservable year-round. Click here to book your cozy cabin stay today!
Campsites
Tygart Lake has 36 campsites that offer some of the most breathtaking camp views in the state. Campsites are open spring through fall, weather permitting, and campers can choose from26 standard sites and 10 sites with electric and water hookups only. Full hookup sites are not available. Click here to book you campsite today!
Recommended Itinerary
During your visit to Tygart Lake, stop by the front desk at the lodge at any time for a list of weekly activities. Here are a few suggestions to help you plan your trip.
Day Trip
Go fishing or hike the Tygart Dam Trail for a refreshing lakeside activity
Pack a picnic or eat lunch at the Lodge Restaurant
Cool off at the park’s brand new adventure lake
Extended Trip
Go fishing or hike the Tygart Dam Trail for a refreshing lakeside activity
Pack a picnic or eat lunch at the Lodge Restaurant
Cool off at the park’s brand new adventure lake
Check into your cabin or lodge room
Explore nearby attractions, such as Valley Falls State Park
Pro-tip to get the most out of your trip to Tygart Lake
- Bring your binoculars. Tygart Lake is home to a nesting pair of bald eagles, which are frequently spotted flying around the lake.
- Tygart Lake is one of the best bass fishing sites in the area, so bring your fishing gear, buy your fishing license and reel in a catch you’ll never forget.
