Valley Falls State Park in West Virginia

West Virginia is a state surrounded by mountains. Because of this there are several beautiful state parks in that offer a variety of activities and natural wonders. One great park is Valley Falls State Park. Valley Falls is a mid-sized park located near Fairmont. As the name suggests, the park is home to a spectacular set of waterfalls that span about a half mile. However, there is much more to do at Valley Falls.

The rocky water area at Valley Falls State Park is not ideal for large boats are swimming. As such, these are not allowed. However, kayaking and rafting are hugely popular here. Kayaking is only allowed in certain areas and registration is required. The streaming water lends itself to several areas of natural rapids. While kayaking down the river you can enjoy the natural beauty of the falls and surrounding areas. You can also the ruins of an old grist mill and an old sawmill that was part of a once lively community. The water areas are surrounded by rocks that many people use to sunbathe on. You can pull your kayak over and enjoy lunch on the rocks. The river is also home to a great fishing scene. You can stop at any area along the river and start fishing. Fishing is subject to state regulations but there are plenty of fish available to catch.

West Virginia Bluestone State Park has Recreational Diversity

Bluestone State Park in West Virginia has everything the wilderness enthusiasts could want. This heavily forested park is filled with picturesque terrain, and has over 2,100 acres of excellent recreational opportunity. With both rugged terrain and family-friendly recreational spots, Bluestone has something for everyone.

Accessible from many major highways, the park is located within the southeastern corner of the state. Hiking trails offer panoramic views of Bluestone Lake, the state of Virginia’s third largest water body. Plus, everywhere that guests and residents look, there are plenty of scenic-mountainous views within the surrounding terrain.

Cedar Creek State Park

A piece of heaven best describes Cedar Creek State Park in West Virginia. The location is about eight miles south of Glenville, West Virginia. Cedar Creek State park is made up of 2,588 acres of rolling green hills, picturesque trees, and three beautiful lakes. This site has a range of activities available, camping, and historic features. This is a great stop for families, couples seeking a unique romantic getaway, the nature enthusiast, and artist seeking the perfect scenic capture.

The check in station at Cedar Creek State Park was formerly a historical landmark of Gilmer County. It is now restored log cabin. This is only one of the features adding to the historic preservation qualities at Cedar Creek State Park. In addition, there is a restored one room school house open to the public during the summer on Saturdays.
The three lakes are stocked with a variety of fish seasonally. Trout is stocked in the lakes during the months of January and March. Catfish is stocked in the month of June. Bass and Muskie can also be found in the lakes.
Camping is open during the middle of April through the middle of October. Reservation is available for campsites, while there are also sites based on availability. There are a total of 57 sites. All except for six of these sites are equipped with water and electric hookups. The well-spaced campsites feature parking pads, picnic tables, and grills.
There is also a 10 site group camping area available for large gatherings, which features a group fire circle. Pets are allowed on the campgrounds, but must be kept on a leash.
Three comfort stations are available with laundry and shower facilities. Ice and fire wood are available at the check in station. There is also a store at Cedar Creek State Park which carries supplies, groceries, souvenirs, and toiletries visitors may have forgotten to bring for their stay. Three shelters are available by reservation or first come, first serve.
Cedar Creek State Park has a multitude of activities. Fishing is permitted with a fishing license. A swimming pool is open during scheduled hours. For visitors interested in play time, Cedar Creek State Park has miniature golf, croquet, horseshoes, playgrounds, and paddleboats. Cedar Creek State Park provides a setting for those interested in sports as well. Visitors can enjoy basketball, volleyball, tennis, and a softball field is also available.
There are 14 miles of hiking trails, consisting of six levels of trails ranging from basic to challenging.
There are no entrance fees for Cedar Creek State Park, however there are fees for camping and activities, which are as follow:
Camp Site Fees
• Camp sites with no electricity or water: $20.00 per night
• Camp sites with water and electricity: $26.00 per night
• These rates are per six people. Each additional person is $3.00 per night. There is a maximum of 10 people per camp site.
Seasonal Passes
• Child: $58.30
• Adult: $84.80
• Family: $132.50
Swimming Pool Fees
• $3.00 per adult
• $2.00 per child
Rates for Shelter, Picnic Area, and Facility Rental:
• Shelter: $84.50
• Picnic Area: $21.20
• Facility Rental: $132.50
Places close to Cedar Creek State Park to visit include Job’s Temple Historic Site, Glenville Golf Course, Bulltown Historic District, and Burnsville Lake.
For additional information and rates, please visit the Cedar Creek State Park website at:

http://www.cedarcreeksp.com/

Additional contact information for Cedar Creek State Park:
2947 Cedar Creek Road
Glenville, WV 26351
(304) 462-7158

Steamboat Rock State Park

There are a number of reasons why so many Washington residents and visitors come to Steamboat Rock State Park time and time again. It is a 3,522 acre state park resting along the shoreline of Banks Lank. Not only are there campgrounds for overnight use, there are a number of other activities which can be enjoyed here. In order to have the best time, it is best to look into what is offered at the state park before going. There is no admission fee for visiting the park, so this is definitely enough of a reason to come and check out what the park has to offer.

A lot of people come to this state park because of the different things it offers for families. Children will love coming and playing out on the grassy areas. During the summer, the park stays between 80 to 100 degrees. This is great news for those planning to come for a picnic of small get together. The lush grass is perfect for playing field sports and setting up a picnic, while there are also tables located nearby. Many people claim that this park is an oasis in the desert climate around it, making this a perfect place to escape to from time to time.

Berkeley Springs, West Virginia Offers America’s First Natural Spas

Berkeley Springs is an idyllic West Virginia town nestled in the mountains, just ninety minutes from the Baltimore and Washington, DC metro area. It is known for its historic, natural warm springs; hiking; swimming; and theater and music events. The Berkeley Springs State Park is located in the center of the town and has been a draw for tourists and vacationers since the eighteenth century.

The state park’s primary draw is the Berkeley Springs Bathhouse, which has been open since 1930. It is considered the nation’s first spa, and it utilizes the water that flows from the area’s natural hot springs at a steady 74.3 degrees Fahrenheit. At this bathhouse, several relaxing activities and services are offered. The roman bath is quite popular. It features 750 gallons of natural spring water contained in a ceramic bath roomy enough for wading, floating, and exercising. The water is heated to 100 to 102 degrees, providing for muscle relaxation.