Yak Fest
Join us for the inaugural Yak Fest June 15-16 in St. Albans. This new event is in coordination with the highly popular Tour de Coal. Yak Fest is a river-based event and will provide a variety of entertainment options, including a pre-Tour de Coal event and a major downtown-based rib fest, music, and a major display of kayak and river-based vendors showing off the latest in water craft, paddle boards, fishing kayaks, and fishing gear.
Run for the River Triathlon
The start and finish line will be in Meadowood Park at the CRG River Center. The race will consist of the following legs: *A 3-mile run within Meadowood Park *An 8-mile bike ride from Tornado to Alum Creek (Note: The alternate bike route will be utilized due to a road closure on Coal River Rd.) *A 7-mile paddle from Alum Creek back to Meadowood Park. *A quick 1/4-mile run back to the finish line at the CRG River Center Register @ www.tristateracer.com.
Wonderland Mountain Challenge Trail Run
Join ACE for a demanding trail run through the beautiful mountains in West Virginia on Memorial Day weekend. Choose between a half-marathon, 10K run, or a 5 mile walk. These distinctive race routes will take racers through the New River Gorge past scenic rock outcrops, cascading streams and abandoned coal mines. After grabbing your medal at the finish line a burrito buffet awaits to tame the appetite you have developed. Cash prizes will be awarded to top finishers, plus you get bragging rights for tackling the Wonderland Mountain Challenge on May 26th, 2018.
PADLZ Canoe & Kayak Rentals-Opening Weekend
Opening weekend 2018! Come join the fun out on the water! All ages and skill levels welcome! We at Padlz Canoe & Kayak Rentals pride ourselves in customer service providing fast, courteous and inexpensive rental services. We are a family-owned, family (and dog) friendly place! We offer sit on top kayak and canoe rentals on the Bruceton Mills Lake – the body of water located above the dam. All skill levels and ages welcome on this flat water, scenic, fishing section of the Big Sandy River.
3 areas in WV that grow flora usually found across the world
Have you heard of Ice Mountain? This 150-acre nature preserve in Hampshire County gets its name from an unusual geological
Outdoor Adventure & Safety Fair at RD Bailey Lake, Guyandotte Point Rec. Area
The US Army Corps of Engineers presents the Outdoor Adventure and Safety Fair at RD Bailey Lake. This family fun event will have different activity stations focused on nature, safety, and outdoor recreation. Activity stations may include a mobile aquarium, tomahawk demonstrations, casting skills challenge, hunting skills challenge, youth archery range, kayak demonstrations, fire safety house, water safety activities, Smokey the Bear, Bobber the Water Safety Dog, and much more!
Bridge Day
Bridge Day is West Virginia’s largest single-day festival and one of the largest extreme sports events in the world. Held
Kayak the Kanawha
Bring your kayak or canoe to Daniel Boone Park and join other paddlers for a guided group river trip! For more information 304-348-6860 or email julianne.yacovone@cityofcharleston.org.
Night Time Zip Line Rides
Join Grand Vue Park for an evening of Aerial Adventure! Night time zip line rides are available on Saturday, August 19th starting at 9:00 p.m. Treat your family or group to the ride of a lifetime!
Watoga Art in the Park
Watoga Art in the Park – bringing together artists and the great outdoors. Watoga Art in the Park features a great fun- filled weekend for families set in one of West Virginia's most beautiful parks – Watoga State Park. The juried fine art and craft fair will feature some of the region's most impressive artists and craftspeople showcasing jewelry, pottery, fiber, glass, photography, painting and much more Find that perfect gift for a loved one or yourself. Along with showcasing fine art for purchase, there will be eight professional artists, instructing in 22 workshops throughout the two-day event to help you create your own work of art. Learn pastels, watercolors, or acrylics from accomplished artists, watch and participate in wood-fire pottery or blacksmithing, make your own mask and paint or decorate it, check out white oak basketry, as well as yoga and art therapy. Join in one or all three nature walks lead by a Watoga State Park Naturalist. Learn about birds and then return to paint what you observed, make a clay dish using some of the natural materials you'll find along your walk, or check out the hike where you learn to identify animal footprints. In the evening you can participate in an Owl Prowl and the even make owl houses to take home with you. There will be great music both days as well as a variety of foods. Kids Corner open all day. Check us out on the web for details and to submit your artwork for consideration. https://watogaartinthepark.com/
Capon Springs & Farms – Grandparents and Grandkids Interactive Sessions
Designed for grandparents and grandkids, these fun interactive sessions bring the kid out in all of us. Come immerse yourself in the freedom of outdoor play at Capon, where you CAN go back to your childhood and re-experience those happy carefree moments again.
Smallmouth Bass Fishing Challenge
This is a catch and release type of tournament, with your contest entry submitted to Tygart River Outfitters via phone pictures. This challenge will be throughout the month of May. Each month a different type of fish will be in competition. Cast out and join the fun !!
WV Bass Federation Championship
The West Virginia Bass Federation (WVBF) is a state wide organization which formed and affiliated with the Bass Anglers Sportsman Society of Montgomery, Alabama in 1973. Presently, the WVBF has approximately 800 members in 64 clubs throughout the State of West Virginia. We are currently affiliated with The BASS Federation (TBF) as a shareholder. Initially, The WVBF was formed to stimulate public awareness of bass fishing as a major sport, to offer the West Virginia Division of Natural Resources our organized moral and political support and encouragement, to promote full adherence to all conservation codes and to demand adequate water standards and detect and report any polluter and call public and political attention to crime, to improve our skill as bass anglers through fellowship and friendly exchange of expert bass catching techniques and ideas, to promote and encourage youth fishing and love for this great recreation and to function as a dynamic and effective link with individual chapters and other federations embracing the principles and purposes of TBF. President John Burdette P.O Box 418 Buckhannon, WV 26201 (304) 472-3600 (W) (304) 472-6221 (H) ssab@frontier.com Vice-President Jody Green 111 Fox Run Road Oak Hill, WV 25901 304-539-1823 jgreen1@walker-cat.com Communications Director Jim Matuga 224 Horizon Drive Morgantown, WV 26508 304-288-1503 matuga.jim@gmail.com
Bikes & BBQ
1st Annual Backyard BBQ Cook-off and Bike Tour of Mason County. Enjoy some of the area’s best home cookin’, live music, and take a ride through the beautiful countryside of Mason County. Bike rides - 42 mile, 20 mile and 6 mile options. BBQ Cook-off - BBQ teams $50.00, ride and eat $25.00, taste and vote $5.00. Presented by Point Pleasant Parks and Recreation and Point Pleasant Bike Trail.
57th Annual Governors Cup Ski Race
Canaan's race staff will set up a challenging giant slalom race on Saturday and a slalom race on Sunday. On each day there will be two runs. An added bonus this year, Canaan's Wild Thing spring party coincides with Governors Cup, making for a fun-filled weekend for the whole family.
Sutton Lake Fall Foliage Tour
Experience WV’s autumn glory by boat! 2018 fall foliage lake tours available for four days only – October 6, 7,
Sutton Lake Fall Foliage Tour
Experience WV's autumn glory by boat! 2018 fall foliage lake tours available for four days only - October 6, 7, 13, and 14. All tours depart at 2pm and last approximately 2 1/2 hours. Sutton Lake has 44 miles of shoreline surrounded by over 10,000 acres of protected land and the views are spectacular. $33.00/person + tax (no charge for children under age 3) includes the boat, driver, fuel, and safety equipment. Sit back, relax, and let us do the driving. Make your reservation by calling 304-765-2120 or book online at http://www.suttonlakemarina.com/fall-foliage-tours.
Sutton Lake Fall Foliage Tour
Experience WV's autumn glory by boat! 2018 fall foliage lake tours available for four days only - October 6, 7, 13, and 14. All tours depart at 2:00 p.m. and last approximately 2 1/2 hours. Sutton Lake has 44 miles of shoreline surrounded by over 10,000 acres of protected land and the views are spectacular. $28.00/person + tax (no charge for children under age 3) includes the boat, driver, fuel, and safety equipment. Sit back, relax, and let us do the driving. Make your reservation by calling 304-765-2120 or book online at http://www.suttonlakemarina.com/fall-foliage-tours.
Sutton Lake Fall Foliage Tour
Experience WV’s autumn glory by boat! 2018 fall foliage lake tours available for four days only – October 6, 7,
Adult Play Date at Capon Springs
Come for any number of nights starting Monday, June 25th through Wednesday, June 27th to immerse yourself in the freedom of traditional outdoor play at Capon. Designed for the kid in all of us these simple, fun interactive morning, afternoon and evening sessions are led by “Let’s Play America” speaker, author and regular Capon guest Pat Rumbaugh. Activities include: hopscotch, hula-hooping, double-dutch, relays, tag, hide-and-seek at sunset and so much more. This outdoor fun is included in the $129-160 per person per night package, which also gets you lodging, three meals daily, resort facility access and evening entertainment. At Capon you CAN go back to your childhood and re-experience those happy carefree moments again and Pat Rumbaugh is your perfect guide to take you there.
10th Anniversary of Hygeia Spa at Capon Springs
Hygeia Bath House & Spa celebrates its 10th annivesary with a weekend long celebration for September 16-18! •10% off all baths and swimspa reservations from Friday afternoon through Sunday morning •Free gift to all spa-goers •Saturday evening gathering with door prizes of spa products and gift certificates, free massage and reflexology samples and light refreshments
Night Time Zip Line Rides
Join us on September 10th for an Adventure filled night. Starting at 8 p.m, the Ohio Valley’s #1 Outdoor Adventure Park will be offering night time zip line rides on our 2,100 ft ride. Call the park office for more information at 304-845-9810.
Miller’s Nightmare Haunted Farm
Miller's Nightmare is a full, extensive haunted farm and Halloween event. We offer food, games, bonfires, music and a haunted farm to explore. The haunted farm features a mysterious hayride which transports guests from the first farm to the second farm. From there, guests must wind their way through a pitch black corn maze with with inhabitants inflicted with a plethora of ailments. Then they venture into a forest of even darker night, only to find more fright. Hours: ticket sales begin at 6:30 p.m. and end at 10 p.m. Dates: Oct. 14, 15, 21, 22, 28, 29, and 31.
Capon Springs Star Party
The all-inclusive overnight package includes your lodging, 3 meals and all recreation except for golf and spa. The complimentary astronomy program is provided by Greg Redfern, an adjunct professor/instructor of astronomy and a NASA JPL Solar System Ambassador. Come enjoy an interactive presentation about meteors as you examine actual samples from Mars, the moon and our solar system. Fresh off the summer Perseid showers, you will get a renewed sense of wonder and awe of the universe. A 45-minute discussion is followed by an exploration of the night sky.
Capon Springs Summer Vacation Escape Package
Escape the crowded city and beaches and head to the cooler mountains with a last minute trip to Capon Springs, July 29-31! Enjoy a refreshing dip in a recently restored 19th century healing spring water fed swimming pool*. It might be hard to believe... but you CAN return to your childhood for a carefree getaway vacation! Capon Springs is an all-¬inclusive WV mountain retreat. It's built like a resort, run like a camp and cared for like a B&;B - less than 2 hours from DC. Call 304-874-3695 for reservations right away. There are only a few rooms still left during this prime summer time weekend! *The Capon Springs swimming pool is currently in a national contest for the best retreat center pool in the country! Click here to vote for this WV wonder! http://www.retreatcentral.com/pool-contest-voting.
Cooper’s Rock Climbing Guides Kids Camp
Located at Cooper’s Rock State Forest, this 7 hour day camp is offered for children 8-12 years of age. The guides of CRCG will lead a scavenger hunt that takes them climbing, rappelling, and hiking through cool rock features in Coopers Rock State Forest.
Brown Bag Concert Series
Grab your lunch from a Downtown Charleston restaurant and make your way to Davis Park for free live music the third Wednesday of the month May - September 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Brown Bag specials will be offered at participating downtown Charleston restaurants on the day of the concerts. Presented by the Charleston Area Alliance and sponsored by American Medical Facilities Management (AMFM), the free event gives people the opportunity to get away from their desk, enjoy some live music and connect with others in the community.
North Mountain Arts Festival
This is the 12th year of North Mountain Art Festival. Previously in Hedgesville, WV Now in our 4th year at Orrs Farm Market. This is a juried fine Arts & Artisans show with Live Music, Fine Art, Handmade Crafts, Food and everything that Orr’s Farm Market has to offer. Festival hours are Saturday 9am-5pm and Sunday 10am to 4pm. come out and experience fun for the entire family. This is a Free event for the public with live music and of some of the best artists in the area. See you there!
Martinsburg Heritage Festival
Discover and celebrate the rich history of Martinsburg, WV during the annual Martinsburg Heritage Festival, with daily activities from May 13-15. You'll tour the homes of historic figures, learn about the city's Irish heritage, find the ghosts that call the city home and more. For more information about the festival, visit www.orgsites.com/wv/adam-stephen.
2016 Summer Music Festival
The 2016 Alpine Lake Resort Summer Music Festival will take place on Saturday, July 9th, 2016. Presale tickets are available at http://wvsummermusic.com/, and will be available for purchase at the front desk of Alpine Lake Resort beginning May 2, 2016. The 2016 Alpine Lake Resort Summer Music Festival Lineup: Terah Crawford Band (Noon – 1:30pm) The Terah Crawford Band is based in Deep Creek Lake Maryland. Terah is a Garrett County Native and combines her love for mountain music with the classics to create a musical style that comes straight from her heart. She is joined by guitarist and vocalist Scott Alexander, a talented song writer and solo artist with a unique voice that adds a stirring harmony to the group’s sound. Bill Crawford brings variety with the mandolin, banjo, and lead acoustic and electric guitar. Bill also writes many of The Terah Crawford Bands original songs with help from Crawford and Alexander. Bill writes and arranges his songs with Terah and Scott’s seamless harmonies in mind. In addition to their original, country and rock driven songs such as Saturday Night Sinner and Burn Us Another one, the TCB loves to play the music that has influenced them. You can hear their take on songs from The Band, Bob Dylan, Led Zeppelin and more. Inspired by the Western PA acoustic duo The Phisbins, Terah started the band in 2013. Taking a page out of The Phisbin’s play book, the group offers an ever growing song list to most every audience that they play for so that the crowd can drive the show and hear the songs they really want to enjoy! Since their formation the group has played many notable shows including the Little Yough Music Festival in the summer of 2014, Deep Creek 2014 International Canoe Championships in the fall of 2014 and CMT Empowering Education in the summer of 2015 where they opened for up and coming country star Annie Bosko. Joined in collaboration with many musicians since the bands formation, they are currently very glad to welcome Oakland, MD fiddle player Jeremie Hamilton to share their stage. Jeremie expertly intertwines his bold playing style with the band’s homegrown way of playing. He is a perfect fit into the group and the music that they play. Catch the Terah Crawford Band with Jeremie Hamilton around Deep Creek Lake and we promise, you’ll have a really good time! Surrender Dorothy (2pm-3:30pm) Surrender Dorothy, which officially formed and began playing in 2006, is a cover band from the Cumberland, Maryland area. Surrender Dorothy plays classic rock and top-forty music. Brother Short Band (4pm-5:30pm) The Brother Short Band has a far-reaching fan base sweeping the Eastern U.S. from Michigan to Florida and beyond. By aligning their purist approach with a signature sound, Vocalist & Guitarist Greg Short, Percussionist Bill Harding, and Bassist Lynn King have been instrumental in influencing and inspiring today’s live music scene. At the heart of their work are unique stylings of crowd favorites from classic rock, blues, country (old and new)–along with many original songs. Their hook is surefire, with a range of influences from Johnny Cash to Led Zepplin. The Hillbilly Gypsies (6pm-8:30pm) Hailing from the beautiful Mountain State of West Virginia, The Hillbilly Gypsies have been making and performing their own brand of old time bluegrass and original mountain music for over a decade! Formed in 2001 from a chance meeting at the now infamous Wednesday night old time jam in Morgantown, WV; The Hillbilly Gypsies have been pickin’ n’ grinnin’ and entertaining their loyal fans ever since. The band is best known for their high-energy live performances and have become a crowd favorite at major festivals, fairs and concert venues all across the mid-Atlantic region and abroad. They perform in the old fashioned style, playing around a single vintage ribbon microphone. This “Old Timey” approach adds an authentic high-energy barn party atmosphere to their show. Watching the whole band work around the mic is like taking a trip back in time. It’ll sure make you want to get up and dance! ...and don’t let the flash of their lively stage performance and choreography fool ya, these folks are all highly skilled musicians and seasoned entertainers! Their lightning fast award-winning picking skills and musical arrangements mixed with natural comedic wit and high lonesome mountain vocal harmonies are sure to catch your ear right away. Combine that with a knack for original songwriting and a strong passion for old time and traditional music and this makes for an all-around authentic and exciting musical experience that you won’t soon forget. One listen and you’ll know that you are getting the real deal! The Gypsies are more than a band; they are a tight knit family, mindful of tradition but bold explorers of new and authentic styles of acoustic music and entertainment!
WV Day Festival
The 4th Annual West Virginia Day Festival will be held at the Holly Gray Park in Braxton County just miles from the Flatwoods exit and nestled in the beautiful mountains of North central WV. Admission ADULTS $10 Kids 12 & under FREE Gates Open at 9 am Events kick off at Noon Motorsports, Car Show, Family Fun and more! Check back soon for details
Watoga State Park Mountain Challenge Half Marathon & 5K
Trail running - It's a challenge. Two races both begin Saturday, August 13th at 8:30 a.m. from the Beaver Creek Campground at Watoga State Park. Age groups are: 14 and younger, 15-19, 20-29, 30-39, 40-49, 50-59, 60-69, and 70 and going strong. Race details: http://www.tristateracer.com/RaceDirector/race.php?RaceID=8480.
North Bend State Park – (5/13-14) – 22nd annual BLUEGRASS FESTIVAL
For over 20 years, the Bluegrass Festival at North Bend State Park is a fun filled weekend of pickin’, grinin’, pluckin’, and singin’ with and by great bluegrass bands from the wild, wonderful state of West Virginia and from the surrounding region. During the festival, shop the displays of local WV artisans and find a special souvenir to take home. Visit other attractions and businesses while you're in the area. Performing bands will have merchandise for sale. Take home a CD of your favorite band! Throughout the festival enjoy snacks, grilled hot dogs and hamburgers, pulled pork sandwiches, and drinks from the North Bend Outdoor Grill. Lodge, cabin and camping packages include bluegrass festival admission. Bands include: Friday-May 13, 2016–Remington Ryde (6p), Idletymes (7p), The Hillbilly Gypsies (8p), Johnny Staats and the Delivery Boys (9p) Saturday– May 14, 2016– Glenville State College Bluegrass Band (1p), The Moron Brothers (2p), Buck and Company (3p), – Idletymes (4p), The Sheppard Brothers (5p), Remington Ryde (6p), The Moron Brothers (7p), Johnny Staats and the Delivery Boys (8p), The Hillbilly Gypsies (9p) Master of Ceremonies: Butch Sheppard; sound by GBS Productions. Day of fee for festival music is $10 per person for Friday; $25 per person for Saturday. Advanced weekend tickets (Friday and Saturday shows) before May 6, $30 - call for for advanced tickets at this reduced rate.
Capon Springs Closing Weekend Celebration
Join us this November for an extra weekend getaway, November 10-13. Come Thursday and help us celebrate Veterans Day on Friday morning. Stay for the rest of the weekend and enjoy an early family Thanksgiving holiday. While we have had several opening weekend parties, this is our first ever closing celebration! Rooms are available on a first come, first served basis. Complete 3-night package rate: $418 per adult* from Thursday dinner through Sunday brunch (with all taxes and gratuities). All kids under age 13 are FREE in a room shared with 2 adults! ($352 per adult in rooms with shared bath). *Thursday night only with a special Veterans Day program on Friday morning: $118 & $102 per adult Friday to Sunday package: $300 & $250 per adult Gather with a group which averages 150 adults for both Friday and Saturday nights to reserve closing weekend: Friday, November 11 to Sunday, November 13 BONUS: Reserve OR find a group by June 1st for the above dates and receive a FREE TWO NIGHT STAY FOR TWO ADULTS anytime in 2016!
Capon Springs April Exclusive!
Want to book a resort for a destination wedding, church retreat or corporate or family getaway? Now you can plan their custom-designed Capon experience your own favorite meals and activities! Gather with a group of at least 75 adults and up to 250 and reserve ANY number of nights between Sunday, April 15 and Thursday, April 17! Pricing flexible depending on how many nights and how many people.
Zoo Brew at the Good Zoo in Wheeling
Sample some of the best beer in the Mountain State and enjoy the animals at West Virginia's only zoo. The full day of family fun also raises money to support the zoo's animals.
Wheeling Heritage Trail Partners Bicycle Tour
Memorial Day Commemoration at Oglebay Resort
Numerous family events take place throughout the beautiful 1700 acre resort. Oglebay Resort is a wonderful destination located in Wheeling-WV.
Chocolate Fest & Book Faire
From cupcakes to truffles, local and regional authors and chocolate-themed activities, visitors won't find a more decadent or enjoyable festival than the Chocolate Festival and Book Faire April 23, hosted by Main Street Martinsburg. Local businesses throughout downtown host authors for book signings and discussions, as well as display chocolate-themed specials. Guests can also tour a local chocolate shop, sample cupcakes from a cupcake competition and watch "Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory" throughout this day-long adventure.
Tomlinson Run State Park – (3/6) – MEET TOMLINSON RUN
Curious about activities and facilities at Tomlinson Run State Park? Visit with park staff from Noon until 2:00. Camping season is near. The camper cabins and yurts at Tomlinson Run are unique. Learn about the 2016 activities planned. Find this activity and more in 2016 at the link below.
Blackwater Falls State Park (4/22-24) BECOMING AN OUTDOOR WOMAN (BOW)
Becoming an Outdoors Woman is a three day, two night event dedicated to instruction about and interpretation of the outdoors and outdoor activities. Becoming an Outdoors Woman (BOW) offers hands-on, outdoor workshops held in a safe, supportive atmosphere with patient, enthusiastic instructors. No experience or special equipment is necessary. BOW is for adult women of all ages and fitness levels. Preregistration is required. Participants stay at Blackwater Falls lodge or cabins, enjoy five meals, all workshop, classes and activities, and other workshop features. You'll find the registration form link on the web address below. An invitation letter, pricing and complete course description is on the registration link.
Pipestem Resort State Park – (3/4) – MEET PIPESTEM – Bird Walk
Bird Walk – Meet in the lobby at McKeever Lodge for a walk to find some of our feathered friends. There will be a limited number of binoculars to use so bring your own if you have them. All skill levels welcome. Bird walk lasts about an hour. More activities posted to the website.
Tu-Endie-Wei State Park – (3/6) – MEET TU-ENDIE-WEI
Park Superintendent Doug Wiant will be at the Museum a 2:00 p.m. to lead a 'ranger walk' around the park. The interpretative program will include park history, monument significance and invite questions about events and activities at Tu-Endie-Wei as well as Blennerhassett Island. The walk begins at 2:00 and will last about 45 minutes. Attendees participating in the Chief's Challenge get ½ mile credit. It's almost spring and time to get outdoors. Learn more about the Chief's Challenge at: www.wvstateparks.com/Hikes_Walks.html Email the park for March 6 ranger walk details.
Seneca State Forest – (3/6) – MEET SENECA
Enjoy a cup of coffee or cocoa while visiting with Superintendent Jeff Layfield to learn why generations of family memories have happened here. Ask your questions about cabin and picnic shelter rentals, camping, hiking, and of course the Thorny Mountain Fire Tower rental. That's right, we rent a fire tower at Seneca State Forest. Meet Seneca and enjoy coffee and cocoa from 1:00 - 3:00 p.m. at the forest office. Enter to win a Seneca t-shirt or mug. The winner will be contacted via email on Monday, March 7. Ask about Pioneer Cabin and campground opening dates for 2016. Consider reserving a cabin or the fire tower for a truly unique experience.
Cacapon Resort State Park – (3/5) – MEET CACAPON
Meet a reservoir! Join the park Naturalist for an afternoon jaunt to ascend the Piney Ridge Trail to the reservoir. Meet Naturalist Renee Fincham at the Lodge at 2:00 p.m. Bring yourself, bring a friend, or bring the family and join park staff for fun, food, and door prizes! What a great way to kick off the (early) spring recreation season! We'll talk about the park, look for any signs of spring, and just enjoy the scenery. Following the hike, hot tea, coffee, cocoa, cookies, and door prizes will be available at the lodge. If you don't take the hike, you should still plan on visiting Cacapon and enjoying refreshments at the lodge. Refreshments from 2:00 - 4:00 p.m.
Watoga State Park – (8/13) – MOUNTAIN TRAIL CHALLENGE
Mountain Trail Challenge Half Marathon & 5K Run is a trail running challenge. Two races, both beginning Saturday, August 13th at 8:30 a.m. from the Beaver Creek Campground at Watoga State Park. Age groups are: 14 and younger, 15-19, 20-29, 30-39, 40-49, 50-59, 60-69, and 70 and going strong. Event is sponsored by Watoga State Park Foundation supporting Watoga and West Virginia's state parks mission. Great event, wonderful venue. Chip timing by TriStateRacer Entry Fees: 5K $15 before July 1; $20 from July 1 - August 12. $25 on race day. Entry Fee: Half-marathon: $25 before July 1, $30 from July 1 - August 12. $35 on race day. Awards: 1st and 2nd overall male and female plus 1st and 2nd each age group, male and female. Link below redirects to the race website, details, and registration information.
Watoga State Park – (3/5) – MEET WATOGA
Whether March comes in like a lion or lamb, Watoga State Park is springing forward into 2016. Bring your favorite old time picture of Watoga or one you took on a day you've visited the park to post to the "braggin' board". We'll be adding photos the entire year and inviting you to start the 'memories happen here' montage. Watoga is close to the heart for many folks and families over the years. Come share your favorite memories and help us to create new ones! You're invited to visit and meet park staff to learn about upcoming events and activities in 2016 at Watoga. From 2:00 - 4:00p at the administration building, you'll find hot cocoa and conversation. Learn more about Watoga at the park website link below.
Tygart Lake State Park – (3/5) – MEET TYGART
Whether March comes in like a lion or lamb, West Virginia State Parks and Forests are springing forward into 2016. From 2:00 - 4:00 p.m. Meet Tygart - at the Nature Center / Park Office area. 2:00 p.m. Drop in and learn about exciting new projects, events, programs and upcoming activities at Tygart Lake State Park. Hosted by park superintendent, naturalist and Tygart Lake Foundation members. Register for prizes. Learn about the volunteer program at Tygart Lake. Registration is an opportunity to win one of two hiking sticks and a dog friendly gift basket. 3:00 - 3:45 p.m. Bark in the Park Hike Join Us as we hike the "Lake Trail" for an easy Dog Friendly Hike for our two legged and four legged park guests. All dogs must remain on a leash. Owners are completely responsible for their dogs behaviors and actions. Proof of rabies vaccination is required. Hike leader is Nichole Streets. (Tygart Lake Lodge just added pet-friendly rooms!) 4:00 p.m. Prize drawings.
Moncove Lake State Park – (3/5) – MEET MONCOVE
Whether March comes in like a lion or lamb, West Virginia State Parks and Forests are springing forward into 2016. Enjoy a 'Saturday at Moncove Lake' with family and friends from 2:00 - 4:00 p.m. Superintendent Holly Morris and staff will have coffee, hot chocolate and cookies at park headquarters. Yard games! Ladder golf and bocce ball. Time to be outdoors and active. Springtime is approaching. "Meet Moncove" is open to the public and fee free. Talk with the superintendent about rental of the primitive camp area for group use. It's a great opportunity for scout and youth events. Learn about best times to observe hawk migration in the area as well as fishing opportunity at Moncove Lake.
Kanawha State Forest – (3/5) – MEET KANAWHA
Whether March comes in like a lion or lamb, West Virginia State Parks and Forests are springing forward into 2016. Enjoy a 'Saturday in the Park' with family and friends at the nature and history exhibits in Kanawha State Forest's heated nature center (adjacent to the swimming pool) today from 10:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. Learn about 2016 events sponsored by the Kanawha Trail Club and The Kanawha State Forest Foundation. March 5 Activities: Naturalist Sara Miller will be leading a birding hike at 10:00 a.m. Kanawha Trail Club will lead a hike at 2:00 p.m. Games and warming fires (if cold enough) will be available in the yard. Refreshments will be available in the nature center. Open to the public. Fee-free.
Droop Mountain Battlefield State Park – (3/5) – MEET DROOP
Whether March comes in like a lion or lamb, West Virginia State Parks and Forests are springing forward into 2016. Meet Superintendent Mike Smith at 2:00 p.m. and take about a mile hike at Droop Mountain departing promptly at 2:30 p.m. For those interested at the conclusion of the Droop Mountain hike, visitors will drive to Beartown State Park for a 3:30 p.m. hike/talk with Superintendent Mike Smith. Enjoy an early spring visit to one of West Virginia's best known natural areas.
Camp Creek State Park – (3/5) – MEET CAMP CREEK
Whether March comes in like a lion or lamb, Camp Creek State Park is springing forward into 2016. You're invited to visit and meet park staff to learn about upcoming events and activities in 2016 at Camp Creek. From 2:00 - 4:00 p.m. at the Early Moon Shelter, you'll find hot cocoa or coffee, and conversation. Learn about Camp Creek's Pack In Pack Out camping; book picnic shelters for 2016; sign up for the state park VIPP visitation program; learn about events here at Camp Creek; enjoy the spring horizon. It's almost camping season - check out our camping sites. Camp Creek State Park rents sites year-round, so if the weather is good, come camp.
Bluestone State Park – (3/5) – MEET BLUESTONE
Whether March comes in like a lion or lamb, West Virginia State Parks and Forests are springing forward into 2016. Saturday afternoon is a "tree-mendous" time of year to learn about trees at Bluestone State Park. Meet Ben Leedom for a twig, bark, and bud talk - that's right tree identification without the leaves. Cabin #1 will be open if you'd like to see a Bluestone Cabin interior. Leedom serves as the cabin open house "tree-mendous" host from 2:00 – 4:00 p.m. Enjoy a cup of coffee or hot chocolate a the park office from 2:00 - 4:00 p.m. Open to the public. Fee free. Office host is Priscilla McGraw. Check out the "March In Parks" cabin deal on Bluestone State park "Deals" tab.
Beartown State Park – (3/5) – MEET BEARTOWN
Meet Superintendent Mike Smith at 3:30 p.m. for a talk and weather permitted, hike at Beartown State Park. The rock formations in late winter/early spring stand as silent reminders of how great nature is and how time creates awesome natural history venues. Memories happen at this West Virginia's cherished area: Beartown State Park. If this activities starts a little late, wait for Mike. Remember he's leading a Droop Mountain Battlefield one-mile hike that starts promptly at 2:30 p.m. If planning on attending both activities, be at Droop Mountain at 2:00 p.m., hike at Droop and then drive and enjoy Beartown at 3:30 p.m. Contact: Mike Smith, 304-653-4254
Chief Logan State Park – (4/16) – WILDFLOWER HIKE
33nd annual Sue Browning Wildflower Hike at Chief Logan State Park is free to participate and open to the public. Join us at 8:00 a.m. to register for the annual wildflower hike and continental breakfast at The Museum at the Park. Guided hikes begin at 9:00 a.m. Lunch at 12:30 for hikers. Sponsored by Chief Logan State Park, Woman's Club of Omar (GFWC-WV) and the WV Division of Culture and History/Museum at the Park. This is a wonderful location to see spring wildflowers. Please preregister, call Jill Stone. This hike is a guided hike and individuals in WV State Park Hiking Program and/or enrolled in the 2016 Chief's Challenge can take advantage of the miles earned.
Little Beaver State Park – (3/4) – MEET LITTLE BEAVER – Fish Hike
Whether March comes in like a lion or lamb, Little Beaver State Park is springing forward into 2016. Starting at 2:00 from the park office, join Assistant Superintendent Monty Ball for a Fish Hike. It's one mile around Little Beaver Lake for an interpretative walk with a focus on fish! Did you know there is ice fishing at Little Beaver? We'll look a trout in the eye! Meet some anglers. Hear some great stories - some maybe too good to be true, but then again? And enjoy an afternoon walk around Little Beaver Lake. This hike is an opportunity for folks that have never fished at Little Beaver to learn about the lake, access and stocking programs by WVDNR. Visitors to the park that visit the park office may register to win park items. Don't forget! Camping season starts April 1 at Little Beaver State Park campground
Holly River State Park – (3/4) – MEET HOLLY RIVER
Whether March comes in like a lion or lamb, West Virginia State Parks and Forests are springing forward into 2016. Meet Superintendent Ben McCune at the park office anytime between 1:00 - 4:00 p.m. to learn about summer events and to answer any questions about cabin rentals and camping. Cabins reopen for the 2016 season on the first Friday in April. Find more Meet Parks activities for March 4-6, 2016 at wvstateparks.com.
Beech Fork State Park – (3/4) – MEET BEECH FORK
Whether March comes in like a lion or lamb, West Virginia State Parks and Forests are springing forward into 2016. It's time for a Friday evening into that good night at Beech Fork State Park. Meet Superintendent Dillard Price and staff at 5:00 (park headquarters building, for an evening hike to take in the sights and sounds of spring emerging at Beech Fork State Park. Open to the public. Fee free. Contact: Dillard Price, 304-528-5794
June Star Party with Solar System Ambassador
Tuesday, June 26th, 2018 Join Greg Redfern, an adjunct professor/instructor of astronomy and a NASA JPL Solar System Ambassador, for an interactive presentation about outer space! “This Isn’t Your Grandaddy’s Moon” (Timed for full moon with Saturn closest to Earth). A 45-minute discussion is followed by an exploration of the night sky.
Star Party with Solar System Ambassador
Join Greg Redfern, an adjunct professor/instructor of astronomy and a NASA JPL Solar System Ambassador, for an interactive presentation about outer space! "The Sky IS Falling: Space Rocks and You (touch a real meteroite!) A 45-minute discussion is followed by an exploration of the night sky.
Shinnston “Theatre in the Park” Series
Join us in beautiful Ferguson Park for the Shinnston "Theatre in the Park" series, featuring live theatrical entertainment at no cost. Tonight's show is a performance by the improvisational comedy troupe "The Fearless Fools" presented by Vintage Theatre Company.
Camp Creek State Park Fall Festival
Enjoy the rich, fall colors of southern West Virginia, while enjoying music and food at one of Mercer County's three state parks. The park features plenty of walking trails, camp sites, picnic areas, playgrounds and other amenities.
Kanawha State Forest – 4/16 – OSBRA EYE MEMORIAL WILDFLOWER WALKS
One of WVs premiere spring wildflower walks! Multiple hike and leaders. Register at 8:30 a.m. at the swimming pool area. Adults $5; Students under 16, $2. Hot dogs, soft drinks, and cookies for sale. Door prizes, raffle. Hikes are from 9:30 a.m. until 12:30 p.m. A variety of walks, including Wildflowers, Medicinal/Edible Plants, Trees, Beginning and Advanced Birding, Photography, etc. (Be sure to bring a camera & binoculars!) Walks are assisted or led by volunteers and employees of the Department of Natural Resources, Handlan Chapter Brooks Bird Club, Mary Ingles Trail Blazers, and the West Virginia Native Plant Society. Learn more at the forest webpage link below.
SPRING BREAK HERITAGE CAMP
Spring Break Heritage Camp is a 2 day experiential learning, mini-camp experience for Kindergarten-5th Graders, throughout West Virginia's only Smithsonian Affiliate, Heritage Farm Museum & Village. From 9am-4pm campers will be encouraged to dream and create in the new MakerSpace. They will learn how the coal and train industry impacted daily life in our region and meet Simon Kenton, a frontiersman known for exploring, Kentucky and West Virginia. Children will tinker with pioneer inventions and toys, while gaining an introduction to the simple machines that still influence today. Other experiences will include photo hunts in award winning museums, wagon rides, outdoor play, and a campfire lunch!
SPRING BREAK HERITAGE CAMP
Spring Break Heritage Camp is a 2 day experiential learning, mini-camp for Kindergarten-5th Graders throughout West Virginia's only Smithsonian Affiliate, Heritage Farm Museum & Village. From 9am-4pm campers will be encouraged to dream and create in the new MakerSpace. They will learn how the coal and train industry impacted daily life in our region and meet Simon Kenton, a frontiersman known for exploring, Kentucky and West Virginia. Children will tinker with pioneer inventions and toys, while gaining an introduction to the simple machines that still influence today. Other experiences will include photo hunts in award winning museums, wagon rides, outdoor play, and a campfire lunch!
Pipestem State Park – Kids to Parks – 5/21 – RUN FOR HOPE
The 2nd annual Run for Hope 10K/5K Race welcomes kids and adults to get outside and walk or run today. Races beins at the Pipestem Amphitheater Parking Lot. Tentative start time at 8:00 a.m. Course is scenic and with moderate hills. Race is electronically chip timed. Eleven age divisions. Fee based. Registration form will post to this listing as available or visit the Jonathan Powell Hope Foundation website jonathanshope.org. The Mission of Jonathan's Hope is to eradicate childhood cancer through research, advocacy, and education, as well as provide financial and other types of support to children with cancer. Run for Hope is a non-profit organization based out of of Princeton WV. The registration form will post to this listing as available or visit the Jonathan Powell Hope Foundation website jonathanshope.org to learn more and register online.
Pipestem State Park – 4/22-24 – BUSHCRAFT SURVIVAL WEEKEND
For two nights and three days, learn the basics of primitive bushcraft skills that includes making cordage, establishing shelter, creating fire, foraging wild edibles, procuring & purifying water, land navigation, field sanitation and hygiene, fashioning tools, constructing traps and snares, preserving meat, preparing bannock and pemmican, bird/song identification, plant and tree identification and more. This is an reality adventure by day, relaxation by night. Experience by conducted by Forest Manna Outdoors, Todd Longanacre. This high adventure event shares, sustains, preserves the primitive bushcraft skills associated with West Virginia's proud Appalachian history, heritage, and culture and enhance the diversity of outdoor recreational opportunities offered at West Virginia State Parks and Forests. Rate includes two nights at McKeever Lodge and all survival activities. For survival rates & registration: Dale McLaughlin or Brenda Cooper, 304-466-1800
Pipestem State Park – 4/16-17 – IRISH ROAD BOWLING
A magnificent view into the Bluestone River Gorge, Appalachian Spring colors in southern West Virginia, and one of the state's very best road bowling roads, combine for an unforgettable weekend at Pipestem State Park . It's time to go Irish Road Bowling. Women's Singles Qualifier, Men's Singles Qualifier, and Team Bowling and Fun Bowling scheduled. April 16 - Team registration begins at Noon, team bowling at 1:30 p.m. at Park Gate House. April 17 - Fun Bowl (no registration) begins at 11:00a.m. at Park Gate House. April 17 - Men's and Women's singles qualifiers, Registration at Noon at Campground. Qualifiers start at 1:00 p.m. Lodge room discount available at McKeever Lodge. Ask for Irish Road Bowling room rates. To register for Road Bowling call Kevin Smith, organizer at 304 -228-7928.
Opening Weekend Party: Live Music, Fling Golf, May Day Dance
Join us Friday, April 29 – Sunday, May 1 for a weekend loaded with special events, favorite meals and a great rate package! Weekend Highlights Include: A Friday night front porch concert (Robbie Limon), fling golf, a Saturday BBQ chicken cook out on the Hill and more! Be the first to try a new way to enjoy Capon’s prep course! We will be introducing the latest and greatest recreational activity at Capon: Fling Golf! Come up to the prep course Saturday morning for an introduction and demonstration of this “lacrosse meets golf” game. Then play in our first best “fling golf” tourney! *BONUS: If you really want to be the first official guests of our 2016 season, add on Thursday night, April 28th, and feast on our first steak dinner on the Hill and enjoy a special Bingo Bash under the stars.
Summer Star Parties at Capon Springs!
Nothing beats the chill of winter like planning a Capon summer vacation! Besides the usual daily outdoor adventures and evening events, starting July 10th we will feature several days and nights of "out of this world" programs... Here is your chance to explore our own galaxy, which seems not that far away when you use powerful telescopes! You might not find distant planets such as Takodana, Jakku or even Tatooine, but you will see constellations, clusters, nebulae and curiosities from our own solar system (including Saturn as it's brightest)! Evenings of star gazing will be combined with daily orientations about the night sky. Hosted by Shenandoah Astronomy Society president Dottie Edwards, these events are family-friendly for all ages. Tuesday evening will feature a NASA solar system ambassador talking about future explorations of the moon. Stay for as many nights as you would like! While the standard July and August vacation is still a week, during this special time period there are no minimum number of nights required.
Coopers Rock State Forest – 2/6 – WINTERFEST
The 5th annual Coopers Rock WinterFest will be held on Saturday, February 6th, 2016, from 10:00 until 4:00. The festival will be located at and near the Day Use Parking Lot and Front Gate, ¼ mile from the Coopers Rock I-68 Exit. Almost all events are located in, or start and finish at, the main festival area. Visit the Registration & Information Table, front and center as you drive up to the Day Use Parking Lot and Front Gate, to find out exactly where everything is located and any other questions. A full list of activities from Snowball Target Range and Guided Snowshoe Hikes to a Women's Frying Pan Toss is part of the day fun. Click the link below for full details.
Tygart Lake State Park – 7/16 – CARDBOARD BOAT RACE
Cardboard Boat Race. Yes, you're reading correctly, a cardboard boat race at Tygart Lake. Put your duct taping skills together with some cardboard and come join us for the First Tygart Lake State Park Cardboard Boat Boat Race. Categories open to both children and adults. Prizes will be awarded. Race guidelines will post to the Tygart Lake website in early spring including a preregistration form for those working on boats in advance. Sounds like fun. Need more information? Call Nichole Streets, Park Naturalist at 304-265-6148
Cabwaylingo State Forest – 4/30 – MAKE IT SHINE
It's time to Make It Shine at Cabwaylingo State Forest. Join us at 10:00 a.m. at the Crum Morgan Shelter to help spring clean the stream and areas at the forest. Wear work clothes and boots. Volunteers will sign a volunteer work agreement upon arrival. All ages of families, and individuals, all working together for the betterment of Cabwaylingo State Forest has proven to make this event not only productive, but enjoyable for all participants. The 2016 WV Make It Shine Statewide Cleanup is sponsored by the Department of Environmental Protection and the Division of Highways. If you are interested in participating in the Cabwaylingo State Forest Spring Steam Cleanup please complete and return the registration form. Preregistered volunteers working on April 30 may camp for free on April 29 and 30. Free camping requires preregistration for Make It Shine Day. Cabwaylingo Spring Stream Cleanup Preregistration Form is linked on the park website.
Downtown Throwdown and PaddleFest
Paddlefest is a weekend water festival that features a unique opportunity to paddle your kayak or cano from Parkersburg to historic Blennerhassett Island duringa five hour window when the Ohio River is closed to commercial and motorized craft. Downtown Throwdown BBQ & Brewfest is held every September and features various BBQ favorites and craft beers from around the state.
Twin Falls State Park – LUMBERJACKIN’ BLUEGRASSIN’ JAMBOREE
This annual jamboree has something for everyone: bluegrass music, food, arts and crafts, and a woodsman competition. Enjoy the down-home atmosphere. It's all free.
Two days of FREE golf all Fall at Capon Springs!
Two days of FREE golf every week this Fall! Stay overnight any Wednesday in September or October and enjoy complimentary green fees on both Wednesday & Thursdays. (Normal cart fees apply).
Green Bank Telescope Open House and Family Science Day
FREE EVENT! Where else can you... build and launch a rocket, test your engineering skills, play with liquid nitrogen, do fun science experiments and see some of the biggest telescopes in the whole world ALL IN ONE DAY? Telescope Tours will be available as well as rare peeks into the control room of the world's largest fully-steerable telescope, the GBT! This year we're celebrating Green Bank's pioneering contributions and groundbreaking work in the Search for Extraterrestrial Intelligence with our new project, Breakthrough Listen! Build a squiggly bot, launch a rocket, solve a chemistry mystery, compete in the molecule design challenge and make comet ice cream! See how boats can float on air and smell space! *Come early! Rocket tickets are limited to 2/family and must be completed by 3pm for the launch at 4pm.
Archery Tag at the Upshur County Relay for Life
There will be a 5v5 Archery Tag Tournament at the Upshur County Relay for Life. $30 per team and all proceeds go to the American Cancer Society. Visit our website for more information and to print out the registration form.
Archery Tag at the Brooks Hill Fair
Archery Tag is coming to the Brooks Hill Fair in Upshur County on July 24, 25. Tag or be tagged! GOTCHA!