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.
North Bend State Park – 1/10 – WVU MOUNTAINEER, Michael Garcia
The WVU Mountaineer, Michael Garcia will be at North Bend State Park on Sunday, January 10, 2016 from 11:30 a.m. – 2:30 p.m. Garcia, a West Virginia University political science major from Fairmont. W.Va. is the 63rd Mountaineer Mascot. "It's a great opportunity to meet an outstanding young man that has represented WVU and the state well" says Steve Jones, Park Superintendent. Garcia will be at the park's lodge. The park employees encourage youth and families to visit and meet The Mountaineer and to remember to bring a camera or mobile device for a photo opportunity. Meeting The Mountaineer is open to the public and without charge.
Pipestem State Park – (Mar 4) – EAGLE SURVEY of the PIPESTEM AREA
An annual survey of the skies and waterways for golden and bald eagles in the Pipestem area. From 10:00 a.m. until 2:00 p.m. volunteers are assigned stations at various areas to watch and record sightings. The Eagle Brigade reporter noted 24 eagles spotted on the 2016 survey. Email Julie at Julie.A.McQuade@wv.gov Contact: 304-466-1800 x 344. See Birding Surveys at http://www.pipestemresort.com/Surveys.html.
Tygart Lake State Park – FIRST DAY HIKE
Enjoy the first day of the new year, by checking out the sights and sounds of Tygart Lake State Park. Join the naturalist on a hike along the Lake Trail. Meet at the Park Office/ Nature Center at 10:00 am.