West Virginia is a state with many nicknames. She’s been called “Wild and Wonderful,” and “The Mountain State,” but I prefer the nickname she was given in the 1900’s, “Almost Heaven.” I’ve traveled all around the United States and I can say with total confidence that West Virginia is one of, if not the most beautiful state in the country. If you’re looking for some scenic splendor, or camping, fishing,and hiking activities, check out some ofmy homestate’s most beautiful parks. Here’s a guide to the best state parks in West Virginia:
Hawk’s Nest State Park is located in Ansted, West Virginia, and is a favorite of tourists due to its breathtaking views. There are numerous activities offered here, including a variety of hiking trails, which allow for some exercise while enjoying the beautiful splendor of the Appalachian Mountains. You can also take jet boat rides on the New River, ariel tramway rides, and even gowhitewater rafting. For all of the golfers, Hawk’s Nest even offers a beautiful, but difficult, short game course of nine holes.And if one day isn’t enough for you (which is highly a possibility), you have the option of staying at the lodge, which offers three types of rooms for guests. Hawk’s Nest also hosts a wide array of events from dinner theaters, interactive nature events, to holiday celebrations. To commemorate visiting this beautiful state park, Hawk’s Nest has three gift shops, which sell souveniers like apparrel, children’s toys, glassware, and nature-based educational items.
Blackwater Falls State Park is located in the beautiful mountains of Davis, West Virginia. Blackwater Falls is a wonderful place to visit due to the numerous year-round activities offered. Visitors have the choice of skiing, sledding, hiking, boating, swimming, fishing, or playing on several game courts. There is even an on-site naturalist to provide educational information on the park’s history. Blackwater Falls hosts events, ranging from seasonal holiday celebrations and activities to educational nature walks, guided by naturalists. Blackwater falls also offers campsites, cabins, and a 54 room lodge for an unforgetable, enjoyable stay in the Appalachian Mountains, with all ammenities available for your conveinence. Personally, I think Blackwater Falls is the most gorgeous spot in West Virginia. The waterfall is so beautiful and serene. A lot of people even have their wedding ceremonies here because it’s so beautiful.
Droop Mountain Battlefield State Park can be found in Hillsboro, West Virginia, and is the historical site of West Virginia’s last battle fought during the Civil War. Droop Mountain offers numerous hiking trails, which commemorate the battle fought here, and even has a museum dedicated to its history. During even numbered years, the battle of Droop Mountain is reenacted here, which is a 2-day event. Droop Mountain State Park is a wonderful place to visit with no expense, to educate children with some civil war history, or to just have a picnic and enjoy the scenery.
North Bend State Park
North bend State Park is located in Cairo, West Virginia, and hosts a number of recreational activities. It is a beautiful place for family fun with relaxing scenery. North Bend has severalhiking trails, which can be enjoyed on foot, mountain bike, or even horseback. North Bend Lake is available for fishing and boating and there is an indoor pool for swimming, as well. North Bend also offers daily nature recreational activities, and summer programs. If you want to spend an enjoyable weekend here, or a family vacation, there is the North Bend Lodge, and cabins available. They also have two campgrounds available if you prefer the outdoors. North Bend also hosts numerous events throughout the years. There are even locations for special family events, like birthdays and weddings.
This is not a West Virginia state park, but it’s included on the list as a beautiful resort possibility for tourists. Twin Falls Resort is located in Mullens, West Virginia, and hosts a wide array of events and activities for visitors to enjoy. There is an early 1800’s farm, which gives a glimpse into past West Virginia history. There are also 12 hiking trails for enjoying the peaceful scenery. Visitors have their choice among mountain biking, swimming, or golfing at Twin Falls huge, 18 hole golf course with clubhouse, pro-shop and cart rental. They even offer a PGA professional to provide golfing lessons. Twin Falls hosts many events throughout the year such as dinner theater, jamborees, workshops, and educational nature programs. Visitors can stay at Twin Falls’ Lodge, or at one of 50 campsites available.
These are just a few of the fabulous, scenic beauties West Virginia has to offer. If you’re ever traveling through the Mountain State, stop for a few days, and explore the hidden beauty of this overlooked state. You’ll be saying it’s almost heaven too.
