Make a Splash at these 3 Adventure Lakes in West Virginia
Jumpstart your summer with a cannonball into one of West Virginia’s three adventure-filled lakes. Whether searching for adrenaline-pumping jumps or soaking in some rays, Almost Heaven has a perfect day waiting for you! No need to worry about an itinerary; they have it all.
Throw away the to-dos like unread emails, budgeting and that ever-growing pile of laundry and let your inner child run wild. Just do it! Pop on your shades, find your lounge chair and set yourself up for a day full of fun.
1. Pipestem Resort State Park Adventure Lake and Splash Park
Pipestem Resort State Park Adventure Lake has twelve giant inflatables to conquer at its amazing Splash Park. For those who prefer to stay dry, don’t get your swimsuit in a wad! Spend your day catching sun rays and digging your toes in the sand at the beach and lounge area.
Want to fit more adventures into your day? Get a half-day pass to maximize your summer game plan. Take in the nature and excitement of flying through the air with Pipestem Peaks Zipline. With nine ziplines, you’ll have plenty to write home about if you didn’t already.
All this exhilaration is bound to stir up an appetite for something delicious. Grab a bite at Bluestone Dining Room to refuel for even more fun. Breakfast, burgers, salads, sirloin and savor galore! Put the icing on the cake to your dining experience at Tramway Sweets & Treats. Nothing sounds better than a summer treat while overlooking the breathtaking Bluestone Gorge.
After a successful day of letting your inner explorer out, rest your head at one of Pipestem’s 82 campsites. If roughing it isn’t your preference, book a stay in the Vacation Cabins, McKeever Lodge or Mountain Creek Lodge, which offers a relaxing view of the Bluestone River. No matter where you stay, Pipestem Resort State Park is the place for adventure, scenic drives and making memories.
2. ACE Adventure Water Park
Zip, slide, climb, jump! ACE Adventure Water Park dares you to release your inhibitions and take a leap of faith into the wild waters of West Virginia. From ziplines to inflatable mountains and obstacle courses, there is no lack of exhilarating experiences. Brave 50 giant inflatables or feel the sun’s warmth in the beach area; either way, it’s a well-spent day.
Time for a lunch break? ACE Adventure Water Park has all the flavors you may need, steps away from the water! Wander over to Woody’s Wood-Fired Pizza to satisfy that lunch break hunger and cool off with an icy delight from The Slushie Stand. Don’t fret; slushies aren’t just for kids. Grab a chilly craft brew or relax and sip on the tastes of an adult slushie. Before you take your final ride down the Wet Willie Waterslides, seize your dinner plans at the Lost Paddle Bar and Grill. There is no doubt there’s a perfect meal that’ll fulfill each one of your crew’s desires.
Don’t let the fun stop there; ACE Adventure Resort offers endless crusades. Whether you’re a professional or an amateur, spend a day making lifelong memories while whitewater rafting in one of America’s newest national parks. If you’ve had your fill of water-filled adventures, lace up your boots and take a hike on the beautiful trails of New River Gorge National Park. Head back to ACE and get down and dirty at the Mud Obstacle Course with your team to fight for victory! Wind down your night back at the Lost Paddle and take in the sights and sounds of feet dancing, voices singing and hips swaying to the live music on the deck.
All of this fun cannot be contained in one day! Unpack your bags, unroll your sleeping bag and settle in one of ACE Adventure’s cabins or campsites. Here’s an ACE tip: To save some change and time, take advantage of pre-booked dining to maximize your trip. Lock the door, zip up the tent, close your eyes and breathe in the beauty of this slice of West Virginia.
3. Tygart Adventure Lake
Your perfect summer getaway lies four miles south of Grafton, WV, at Tygart Lake State Park. Tygart Adventure Lake makes fun easy, with 25 gigantic inflatables that challenge you to reach the apex. To those who delight in the view of the back of their eyelids, lie back in the lounge and beach area; it’ll be #AlmostHeaven.
Spend your day hanging lakeside with an all-day pass that starts at 10 am and lasts until 6 pm, or dive into the other adventures Tygart Lake offers. Known for its 10-mile-long, 1,750-acre lake, an expedition eagerly awaits your arrival. Whether you feel the breeze on a boat, discover underwater sights while scuba diving or find a memorable keepsake while geocaching, you’ll leave Tygart Lake with unforgettable memories.
What’s better than a day full of fun and sun? A day full of fun and mouthwatering food! Take your seat at the lakeside at The Lodge Restaurant at Tygart Lake and enjoy great food with an even greater view. If you need an energy boost, bounce over to town and check out Espresso Yourself Coffee House for a locally roasted cup o’ joe. You can never go wrong with pizza, especially the kind that makes you feel at home. Test your limits, try the Big Momma at Grafton Hometown Pizza, and top it off with a Chocolate Chip Pizza for dessert.
Catch some Z’s at Tygart Lake State Park Lodge, which overlooks the lake below, or cozy up at one of the 11 cabins. Whether you prefer a classic or vacation cabin, it will surely give you the rest you need. If you’re tired of “luxury living,” try something new and pitch a tent at the Tygart Lake Camping Sites. Who knows, you may see some stars you’ve never seen!
Can’t get enough of an Almost Heaven summer? Find your next escapade inspiration in our FREE West Virginia Vacation Guide.
CLICK FOR ADVENTUREWhen life gives you water, make a splash in #AlmostHeaven 🌊
This post was last updated on June 2, 2025