Natural beauty, historic interest, or recreation – that’s the criteria behind state parks. And our beautiful state of West Virginia manages 37 of them – about 12,000 of the total 164,000 acres developed for our enjoyment.

 

Point yourself in any direction from Bridgeport and you can be at one of these treasures in about a half hour. I’ve been doing it about every chance I get.

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Valley Falls State Park

Its draw, obviously, is the series of waterfalls across the rolling Tygart Valley River. The photo op never gets old and neither does the thrill. You can easily walk the rocks out to get an up-close-and-personal view or you can walk the shoreline and take it all in. If you’re a history buff, make sure to read all about the site – a former lumber and grist mill community. Do some sunbathing or fishing, gather with friends and family at the picnic shelter/playground, or hike or bike several acres of scenic trails. Valley Falls State Park is on West Virginia Tourism’s “Chasing Waterfalls” interactive challenge. So, make sure you check off the location to win some WV swag. The park borders Marion and Taylor counties. If you travel via Marion County, you’ll drive through the beautiful Rock Lake community; an added perk! Valley Falls is open seasonally 7 a.m. to dark daily.

 

Watters Smith Memorial State Park

Its name tells the story. The land was gifted by the Smith family as a tribute to great-great grandparents Watters and Elizabeth Smith, who settled the land in 1796, lived off it and raised their eight children there. Rustic structures – some restored to period accuracy - include the original log home, blacksmith shop, woodworking shop, food storage cellar, hog pen, smoke house and more. It’s pretty cool. A museum offers even more insight into the pioneer life. Beyond that, the park offers miles of scenic hiking trails; the one we chose featured sturdy footbridges and generous-sized walk trails through lush foliage, including plenty of birch and oak trees. There are a couple of very nice picnic shelters, equipped with extra tables, charcoal grills, and playground facilities. Play volleyball, take along the bicycle and enjoy this Harrison County treasure. There is currently construction happening within the park grounds to restore streams and stabilize their banks and otherwise upgrade the trail system, including the addition of some wildlife-friendly riverbank habitat. Located in Lost Creek, the park is open seasonally during the daylight hours.

 

Prickett’s Fort State Park

Its significance to me is the scenic rail trail along the Monongahela River which I love to bike. I’ve never done it, but you can take it all the way to Morgantown. Travel south from the trail head and you can bike through the super cool 1,200-foot lighted Meredith Tunnel. But the Prickett’s Fort claim to fame is the reconstructed Prickett’s Fort of the 18^th-century Virginia frontier. The Prickett’s Fort State Park Foundation manages tours, heritage workshops and other colonial experiences. Boat, bike, fish or hike this easily assessable state park, just off I-79, five miles north of Fairmont.

 

Tygart Lake State Park

It had me at “lake.” I’ve been invited to boat many times on the picturesque Tygart Lake, accessible from the park marina. Ten miles in length, it seems to stretch forever when you’re in its midst. Whether making waves or finding little cozy coves, it’s the most relaxing experience. We’ve spotted ducks, deer, and a heron or two. There was even a recent black bear sighting; the guy swimming right across the lake at one of its widest points. Water enthusiasts can also enjoy the Ace Adventure attractions; large inflatables that can be swam to, climbed, and jumped off. Tygart Lake State Park is also ideal for exploring via bicycle or on foot. The dam-controlled lake, of course, features the Tygart Lake Dam, built in 1938 by the U.S. Corps of Engineers, just seven years before the property was acquired by the state. Also available are camping and lodging facilities. The state park is  just outside of Grafton. 

 

There is more summer left and that means more state park adventures! We'd love to hear about yours.