Archives

Full Moon Hike (Cass Scenic Railroad SP)

Full Moon hikes at Cass Scenic Railroad are led hikes designed to encourage visitors to enjoy being outdoors in wintry and spring weather. Meet at the Visitor's Center at Cass, WV at 6:30p.m. There is no charge to participate. Hike guidelines include: • Fee free activity, but limited to 30 participants. • Preregistration is required. Use email link below or call. • Registration will be confirmed by hike leader. • Meet At The Visitor Center • Hike is approximately 3 miles total. • Walk begins from the Visitor Center to MM 79 On The Greenbrier River Trail and back. • Trail is crushed gravel and minimal grade change. • Dress for the weather. Boots or closed toes footwear, socks, layered outerwear is recommended. Oh! Headwear and gloves could be handy. • Pack a water and/or snack. • Photography is permitted, but flash photography is not. We'll need to retain our night vision. • NO FLASHLIGHTS OR HEADLAMPS. Shining a bright flashlight will diminish your night vision for up to 30 minutes, limiting your view of the night sky and wildlife. You can bring a flashlight for the 'just in case' but refrain from shining – we'll let the moon and stars do that! • Participants should be believe they can complete three miles. You can do it! The Full Moon Hike group will remain together for the duration of the walk/hike. Safety first. • Children must be with a parent or guardian at all times. • Well behaved dogs are allowed. Dogs will rely on their human to keep them on leash and under control. • Due to limited participation (30), large groups (10 or more people)

Bluestone State Park – FIRST DAY HIKE

A Brisk Bluestone Morning Hike! Take your first step into the New Year with a hike at Bluestone State Park. Meet Superintendent Brett McMillion or Assistant Superintendent Joe Swiney at 9:00 a.m. to embrace the new year with this brisk wintry walk. The superintendent's will focus on Bluestone State Parks history as well and winter aspects such as trees and watchable wildlife. Meet at the park office. Coffee and cocoa awaits upon return. No fee to participate. Open to the public. Wear appropriate outwear and footwear for the weather conditions. Get Outdoors! Explore!

Pipestem State Park – WINTER BALLROOM DANCING WEEKEND

This weekend at Pipestem State Park features ballroom dancing option. The instructors are Alicia Clark and Steve Prowse and the package includes instructional time, two nights and more time for of open dancing, dinner on Saturday. The weekend package also includes two nights lodging at McKeever Lodge. Click the link below to visit Pipestem event page for dance time, lessons, etc. The Saturday evening dance is semi-formal to dressy casual. Dance package without accommodations or meal is $42.40 per person. For two individuals in a lodge room: two nights, instruction Saturday dinner, open dancing is $245.36. Rates available for single room occupancy as well as add-on for triple or quad room occupancy. Call for reservations.

NATIVE AMERICAN WEEKEND AT PRICKETTS FORT

Bring the family and enjoy an interactive history lesson which will include displays, demonstrations, and hands –on activities for the kids. Regular admission applies.

WEST VIRGINIA STORYTELLING FESTIVAL AT PRICKETTS FORT

Join the West Virginia Storytelling Guild for a storytelling festival in the park. Schools are invited to participate in special workshops and storytelling for students. Tickets are required for all events. Details will be posted at www.prickettsfort.org or www.wvstorytellers.org.

HEARTH COOKING DEMO AT PRICKETTS FORT

Come out and tour the fort and smell the food cooking over an open hearth, the way food was prepared during the colonial period of our history. Recipes will be available upon request. Regular admission applies.

HEARTH COOKING DEMO AT PRICKETTS FORT

Come out and tour the fort and smell the food cooking over an open hearth, the way food was prepared during the colonial period of our history. Recipes will be available upon request. Regular admission applies.

HEARTH COOKING DEMO AT PRICKETTS FORT

Come out and tour the fort and smell the food cooking over an open hearth, the way food was prepared during the colonial period of our history. Recipes will be available upon request. Regular admission applies.

HEARTH COOKING DEMO AT PRICKETTS FORT

Come out and tour the fort and smell the food cooking over an open hearth, the way food was prepared during the colonial period of our history. Recipes will be available upon request. Regular admission applies.

HEARTH COOKING DEMO AT PRICKETTS FORT

Come out and tour the fort and smell the food cooking over an open hearth, the way food was prepared during the colonial period of our history. Recipes will be available upon request. Regular admission applies.

HEARTH COOKING DEMO AT PRICKETTS FORT

Come out and tour the fort and smell the food cooking over an open hearth, the way food was prepared during the colonial period of our history. Recipes will be available upon request. Regular admission applies.

HEARTH COOKING DEMO AT PRICKETTS FORT

Come out and tour the fort and smell the food cooking over an open hearth, the way food was prepared during the colonial period of our history. Recipes will be available upon request. Regular admission applies.

HEARTH COOKING DEMO AT PRICKETTS FORT

Come out and tour the fort and smell the food cooking over an open hearth, the way food was prepared during the colonial period of our history. Recipes will be available upon request. Regular admission applies.

North Bend State Park – June 20 – WV DAY!

9:30am – 11:30am – The Nature Center is Open – Come inside to enjoy arts and crafts and a chance to meet some of our wildlife friends. Take a look around and marvel at the mysteries of nature. 12:00pm – Wild About Wild Turkeys – Come talk turkey with the park naturalist and learn about these amazing and sometimes misunderstood birds of our forests. Great for all ages. We will meet at the Nature center. 2:00pm – Hibbs Cemetery Trail Hike – Learn some West Virginia flora and fauna as you hike the trail to the ancient Hibbs Cemetery. The trail has a constant grade and great views. Meet at the River Run Campground check in station. (Lasts about one hour. 3:30pm – Soda Pop Bottle Fish – Reuse items to create works of art. This craft uses old soda pop bottles, turning them into beautiful fish. Materials provided. Meet at the Nature Center. Craft time lasts about one hour. Find more daily activities on the link below. Visit North Bend - Take away memories.

North Bend State Park – June 18 – SOUTHERN RAILROAD TRAIL HIKE

Southern Railroad Trail Hike follows the old Southern Railroad Grade that now connects the River Run Campground at North Bend State Park to the dam. The hike is flat and easy to walk on. Meet at the River Run campground check in station. Hike will last about one hour. Find more activities during the week and weekend for families, friends, and youth on the web page below.

North Bend State Park – June 12 – WILD ABOUT TURKEYS

Come talk turkey with Park Naturalist, Ken Zebo and learn about these amazing and sometimes misunderstood birds of our forests. Great for all ages. Meet at the Nature center. Fee free. Find daily more activities throughout the weeks at the webpage link below.

Pipestem State Park – September 1 – LILLY MOUNTAINEERS

The award-winning Lilly Mountaineers are comprised of some of the finest artists you will find anywhere in the country. Brothers Daniel and Mark Lilly are the core members of the band. Having toured with national acts around the country and appearances on the Grand Ole Opry, the brothers carry on the tradition started by their father, the legendary Everett Lilly. Band members are Daniel Lilly, Mark Lilly, Rad Lewis, Steve Sparks, and Beth Sparks. Learn more about this legendary group at lillyboys.com Lilly Mountaineers are live and on stage at 8:00 p.m. at the Pipestem Outdoor Amphitheater. Fee-based. Adults: $8; Children 6-12: $4; Children 5 and younger free.

Pipestem State Park – August 27 – RICK K & THE ALLNIGHTERS

One of the most exciting performers on the music scene today, native WVian, Rick K shares his enthusiasm and love of music with an ever-growing audience across the country. A distinctive vocal style and charismatic stage presence have earned Rick K and his band rave reviews at majors fairs, casinos, and clubs. Rick K's grandmother, an accomplished gospel and jazz pianist, and his father, a drummer, paved the way for this rock 'n' roll band's energized leader. An awesome night at the outdoor amphitheater! Show begins at 8:00 p.m. Advanced ticket sales: Fee-based. Adults: $8; Children 6-12: $4; Children 5 and younger free. Day of Show Ticket price: Fee-based. Adults: $10; Children 6-12: $5; Children 5 and younger free.

Pipestem State Park – August 27 – OLDIES ROCK & ROLL WEEKEND CAR & MOTORCYCLE SHOW

Antiques, street rods, classics, customs, muscle cards, pro-street, trucks, motorcycle, and special interest vehicles are all part of a great car show this weekend. The show is open to the public. There is no cost to attend the car show. Show registration begins at 8:00 a.m.; awards presented at 4:00 p.m. Dash plaques. To enter a vehicle in the show, there is a nominal entry fee. Contact Myron Anderson at A&R Productions, show producer - 304-425-3370 or 304-920-9020. For room reservations for Oldies Rock and Roll Car Show, call Pipestem.

Pipestem State Park – August 20 – PARACHUTE BRIGADE

A Folk/Pop Rock band from Beckley, W.Va., Parachute Brigade is a group of musicians and artists from various backgrounds coming together to enjoy music and life! Justin Puett - Eric Robbins - Jodie Cox-Puett - Brittany McGuire - Tim Basham. Great harmonies. Pure vocals and instrumentals. Find them on facebook.com/theparachutebrigade. Fee based. Adults: $8; Children 6-12: $4; Children 5 and younger free. Concessions onsite.

Pipestem State Park – August 13 – BIL LEPP

BIL LEPP – Storyteller - Liar - Comedian - Humorist at the Amphitheater! Get ready to laugh yourself silly…Bil Lepp is a master storyteller and a champion liar. His humorous tales curls the lips on the grumpiest of people. Sure to tickle your funny bone. Laughter begins at 8:00 p.m. at Pipestem Outdoor Amphitheater. This program is FREE and open to the public.

Pipestem State Park – August 6 – TERROR OF THE TUG

Presented by McArts, Terror of the Tug is a play written by Jean Battlo and based on events in the life of Police Chief Sid Hatfield just after the Matewan Massacre, a notable event in the history of West Virginia and the history of labor relations in the United States. Fee based. Adults: $8; Children 6-12: $4; Children 5 and younger free.

Pipestem State Park – August 4 – GEOLOGY! ROCKS

Join Geologist Ken Ashton and learn about rocks, minerals and fossils during the evening presentation. FREE. It's outdoors at the amphitheater! As residents of the third rock from the sun, learn about earth geology. 8:00 p.m. (A geology hike is scheduled in the morning on August 5. Join us as we Rock on! ) Open to the public. There is no charge to attend the Geology Rocks! programs.

Pipestem State Park – July 30 – CARL ACUFF, JR.

Since 1992 the Carl Acuff Jr. Variety Show Band has become an American institution with a dynamite show, great costuming, music and comedy. The 2016 show contains all the things that have made Carl and the band so popular over these last 23 years. New and Old Country, Gospel, Comedy, Nostalgic Rock N Roll, Motown, Disco, Audience Participation, Impersonations and a salute to all of our men and women in uniform. The show is great family entertainment and great music! The Carl Acuff, Jr. Show is live and on stage at 8:00 p.m. at the Pipestem State Park Outdoor Amphitheater. Fee-based. Adults: $8; Children 6-12: $4; Children 5 and younger free.

Pipestem State Park – July 23 – CLINTON COLLINS

Clinton Collins, either as a solo artist or with his band, presents a unique blend of Americana music, along with original, creative songwriting. His musical journey guides us through places and to people that seem familiar and stories that resonate with us all. From the rural back roads to the places of the heart; melodies are filled with humor and observations about relationships, faith and everyday living. Clinton is a sought after artist who performs throughout the year at house concerts, coffeehouses, festivals and special events. Each show Clinton welcomes the audience into a comfortable and intimate setting where the audience becomes relaxed and uplifted before the evening is complete. Google Clinton Collins Music, listen and then plan on being at Pipestem State Park on July 23 for some to some great live music. Fee-based. Adults: $8; Children 6-12: $4; Children 5 and younger free.

Pipestem State Park – July 16 – SUGAR RUN BAND

Sugar Run Band is at Pipestem's Amphitheater! "Pounding Out a Tune" is the bands newest CD. Unlike many bands that label themselves as old-time, bluegrass, country, gospel, etc., Sugar Run offers an eclectic mix of those and other styles of music from the rural South. Band members are Mike Johnson on five-string banjo, as also mandolin and Dobro; Bonnie Johnson on the upright acoustical bass fiddle; Geoff White on fiddle and also guitar and mandolin; Stanley Asbury on guitar; and Rachel Johnson on fiddle. Their website is sugarrunband.com. Sugar Run is is live and on stage at 8:00 p.m. at the Pipestem Outdoor Amphitheater. Fee-based. Adults: $8; Children 6-12: $4; Children 5 and younger free.

Pipestem State Park – July 2 – Lou Maiuri – Let’s Squaredance!

It's Lou Maiuri - Let's Squaredance! with the Appalachian Country Cloggers. Time to circle up! It's an evening of squaredancing with caller Lou Maiuri. The outdoor amphitheater is the place to be at 8:00 p.m. this evening for squaredancing and some line dancing fun. If you know your left from your right, you can squaredance at any age or stage in life. Let's dance starting at 8:00 p.m. There is no charge to attend. Presentation is open to the public. Young to the young at heart welcome.

Pipestem State Park – June 18 – Chloe Forence

A vibrant, young vocalist, Chloe Florence performs a blend of country, modern, folk, and original music. Chloe's singing style is described as country meets coffee house with a powerful execution and depth of feeling. Born and raised in southern West Virginia, music is central to her daily life. Chloe is a natural. She has been a featured performer for Beckley's Fridays in the Park series, Beckley's Kid's Classic, and at the Oak Hill Amphitheater. Chloe has opened for some of Southern WV's most talented artists and is currently working on original songs for her first E.P. that will feature her band members and local musicians. Make welcome and come listen to live music by Chloe Florence Chloe Florence show begins at 8:00 p.m.. at the Pipestem Outdoor Amphitheater. Fee-based. Adults: $8; Children 6-12: $4; Children 5 and younger free.

Pipestem State Park – June 11 – Legally Blonde, Jr.

Legally Blonde, Jr. comes to life as presented by K.I.D.S. Youth from middle and high schools in the Summers County preform live on the stage at Pipestem State Park - Outdoor Amphitheater. Show begins at 8:00 p.m. Fee-based. Adults: $8; Children 6-12: $4; Children 5 and younger free.

Beech Fork State Park / Birds of Prey

"Who cooks for me, who cooks for you all?" What bird says this phrase? Come to this Birds of Prey Education Program featuring live birds native to West Virginia to learn about owls, hawks and eagles. You'll learn about the habitat, diet and behavior of each bird presented, the most common causes of injury to each species and the laws protecting these special birds. No fee to attend. Open to the public. 7:00 p.m. Presented by Three Rivers Avian Center. Meet Regis the Bald Eagle, Perry, the Peregrin Falcom, Hoolie, the Great Horned Owl and other feathered raptors. All welcome.

Fly Fishing Workshop

A Fly Fishing Clinic at Cass Scenic Railroad State Park includes discussion on equipment, history, insects, fly tying and culminates in a day of fishing in a local trout stream in Pocahontas County, one of the premier trout fishing areas in the state. Location may be the Elk River or Shaver's Fork areas to be determined. The instructor is Bill Healy. Fishing license required (WV Fishing license with trout and national forest stamps.) Visit wvfish.com for license purchases. Workshop cost is $200 per person and includes instruction, fly tying equipment (attendees keep equipment), materials for fly making, Saturday lunch, and transportation to the fly fishing location. $150 if attendee brings own tying equipment. House rental at Cass not included, however, attendees are extended a 10% discount on rentals. Call for reservation for Company House rentals and to register for the Fly Fishing Clinic Weekend.

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.

Beech Fork State Park – FIRST DAY HIKE

New Year’s Day is a perfect opportunity to start 2016 by connecting nature, engaging in physical activity and a healthy lifestyle all year long. Meet Assistant Superintendent Dillard Price at 9:00 a.m. at the the Overlook Trail entrance. We'll be hiking the Overlook Trail to explore the natural beauty of the area. Wear appropriate footwear and layer according to weather. No fee to participate. This hike can be used as logged mileage for the Chief's Challenge in 2016. First Day Hikes are scheduled and led by park naturalist or superintendents. Let's Hike!

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.

Blennerhassett Island State Park – 2/28 – WINTER LECTURE SERIES: “Mark Twain”

The 2016 Winter Lecture series has been every Sunday in February at the Blennerhassett Museum of Regional History in Parkersburg, W.Va. Doug Riley is presenting a first person interpretation of Mark Twain. Mark Twain is celebrated as one of America's great authors and humorists. The four-week series, Sunday afternoon programs, begins at 2:00 p.m. the Blennerhassett Museum. Parking is free. Seating is limited and reservations are required for the lecture series. There is a small cost to the attend the lectures. As available, please call to make reservations for this final lecture.

Blennerhassett Island State Park – 2/21 – WINTER LECTURE SERIES: “Stephen Foster”

The 2016 Winter Lecture series is every Sunday in February. Steve and Lisa Ball will present the music of Stephen Foster along with the history behind each piece of music. These history presentations are educational programs featuring speakers and first-person interpreters on a variety of Ohio Valley / W.Va. topics. The four-week series consists of Sunday afternoon programs beginning at 2:00 p.m. the Blennerhassett Museum. Parking is free. Seating is limited and reservations are required for the lecture series. There is a small cost to the attend the lectures. Please make reservations for lectures, as available, you would like to attend.

Blennerhassett Island State Park – 2/14 – WINTER LECTURE SERIES: “Behind the Camera Lens”

The 2016 Winter Lecture series is every Sunday in February. Paul Borrelli is the February 14 guest speaker featuring photographic history of Parkersburg, W.Va. These history presentations are educational programs featuring speakers and first-person interpreters on a variety of Ohio Valley / W.Va. topics. The four-week series consists of Sunday afternoon programs beginning at 2:00 p.m. the Blennerhassett Museum. Parking is free. Seating is limited and reservations are required for the lecture series. There is a small cost to the attend the lectures. Please call in advance for reservations, as available, for the individual lectures or you to sign up for all four.

Blennerhassett Island State Park – 2/7 – WINTER LECTURE SERIES: “Grave Creek Mound”

The 2016 Winter Lecture series is every Sunday in February at the Blennerhassett Museum of Regional History. Andrea Keller and Heater Cline are guest speakers on February 7. These history presentations are educational programs featuring speakers and first-person interpreters on a variety of Ohio Valley / W.Va. topics. The four-week series consists of Sunday afternoon programs beginning at 2:00 p.m. Parking is free. Seating is limited and reservations are required for lecture series attendance. There is a small cost to the attend the lectures: $5.00 per lecture for non-Friends of Blennerhassett Members and $4.00 per lecture for Friends of Blennerhassett members. Please call in advance for reservations, as available.

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.

Pipestem State Park – 1/22 – Primitive Bushcraft Weekend Workshop

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. 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.

Blackwater Falls State Park – No Snow! Great Rate!

No Snow! means a great weekend rate at Blackwater Falls Lodge that includes dinner for two. No Snow nightly rate is available only for the nights of December 12, 13 and/or 14, 2015. The rate is $97 per night for any available room type. The rate also includes dinner for two in the Smokehouse Restaurant! Call (304) 259-5216 for details and to make reservations. This rate is only available the nights of December 12, 13, or 14. It does not include taxes or meal service gratuity. If winter time isn't you favorite travel time, take advantage of 'no measurable snow' and experience the season at Blackwater Falls State Park. The lodge is decorated for Christmas and holidays. The indoor pool is open. The scenery is wonderful.

Cacapon State Park – BIG BAD WOLF

The "big bad wolf" is a widely known term, but in actuality wolves are more afraid of us than we are of them. Join Ironwood Wolves, a small, USDA licensed educational facility, as they tackle the myths associated with these fascinating creatures. Hear discussions about behavior, family life, reproduction, diet, myth vs fact and the wolfs important role in the ecosystem. The presence of an educational animal is part program. This family friendly activity will take place in the Cacapon State Park conference center at the Lodge. Call for program times or email for program. There is no charge to attend.

Cacapon State Park – FIRST DAY HIKE

Let New Year's Day be a perfect opportunity to start 2016 by connecting nature, engaging in physical activity, and promoting healthy lifestyles all year long. Meet at 10:00a at the Cacapon State Park Nature Center to begin exploring the natural beauty of the Ridge Trail. This trail is approximately 1 ½ miles with a few hills. Cacapon State Park is open year-round and features a lodge, restaurant, cabins and more. Learn about other events at Cacapon on the park website, Events/Deals tab. (First Day Hike miles can be used as earned miles in the 2016 Chief's (Hiking) Challenge.

Hawks Nest State Park – LIGHT ALONG THE MIDLAND TRAIL

Just the right amount of lights to make thing merry and bright - Lights Along the Midland Trail (Route 60) showcases 108 unique holiday displays at Hawks Nest State Park. Drive slowly around the state park property. There is no cost. Lodge, gift shop and restaurant are open year-round. Stop in! and sit a spell by the lobby fireplace. Lights on from about 5:30 - 10:00 p.m. each evening from December 1, 2015 to January 3, 2016. Happy Holidays from Hawks Nest State Park.

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.

West Virginia State Parks – NEW YEAR’S EVE EVENTS

Ten state parks in West Virginia have lodges. Each with overnight accommodations and restaurants. Most with NYE activities planned including dances. Find information on the Full Calendar at www.wvstateparks.com. Parks featuring dinners/dances are Chief Logan Lodge, North Bend, Blackwater Falls, Canaan Valley, Cacapon, Pipestem, Twin Falls, Stonewall Resort and Tygart Lake.

Blackwater Falls State Park – CARDBOARD & DUCT TAPE SLED RACE

Every tool box has it! Duct Tape. Make a sled of cardboard and duct tape and bring to the Blackwater Falls for the third annual Duct Tape and Cardboard Sled Race. Design and construct a person powered, corrugated cardboard sled able to withstand the down hill fun on the Blackwater Falls sled run. Awards for best design and team spirit. This year's theme: Mystical Creatures. Visit the park website (click the website link) for race time and registration information.

Blackwater Falls State Park – STORIES & SONGS of the HOLIDAY SEASON

Here we come A-caroling! with Jeff Seager and Susanna Holstein. Sing along and learn the stories behind our favorite carols, from ancient ballads to popular modern songs. Open to the public. Animal shelter donations in the form of dog food, cat food, litter, toys, leashes, bedding will be accepted and donated to the Tucker County Animal Shelter. Call for story and song times. Visit the park website for other great events throughout the year at Blackwater Falls State Park.

Twin Falls State Park – TRACKING & WOODS LORE WEEKEND

Step back in time to the 18th century, when American Indians and European Americans lived closer to nature. Learn some of the skills that were necessary for everyday life, and learn of the cultural sharing that has made our modern lives richer. Enjoy nature, dram, tracking, and history in outdoor and indoor setting. Starts at 7:00 p.m. on Friday. Bring warm clothes, sturdy footwear, camera, binoculars, and notepad to get the most out of this weekend. The workshop is definitely family friendly, with interest for ages from 5 years to over 55. We encourage scout groups (girls & boys) to use the workshop to help them earn certain merit badges and awards in themes of history, nature study, American Indian, Pioneer, woods lore, etc. Two classes are offered for WV Master Naturalist students as well; Tracking (4 hr. credit) and Medicinal/Edible/Useful Native Plants (3 hr. credit). Overnight accommodations are available in either Twin Falls Lodge or a Twin Falls vacation cabin. Package prices include lodging, Saturday dinner, break refreshments, and all event activities. Call for pricing. Make reservations to attend.

Twin Falls State Park – FIRST DAY HIKE

It's good to get outdoors on the first day of the year for a walk. Starting at 10:00 a.m., meet in Twin Falls Lodge Lobby to go outdoors and welcome 2016. No fee. Dress appropriately for weather conditions. About one hour.

Chief Logan Lodge – VALENTINE PARTY

It's a sweet evening at Chief Logan Lodge for a Valentine dinner, dance and overnight. 'Coal Fired Band' is playing. Dinner, dance and King or Queen room for two is $109.94. Other room types available. Special rates for Friday and Sunday night rentals for sweethearts looking to linger longer.

Twin Falls State Park – PRIMITIVE BUSHCRAFT 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. Fee based. Includes lodging, some meals and a survival weekend guided weekend experience.

Pipestem Resort State Park – BALLROOM DANCING WEEKEND

A weekend of ballroom dancing with instructors Alicia Elam and Steve Prowse includes instructional time, two nights and more time for of open dancing, dinner on Saturday. A weekend package includes two nights lodging at McKeever Lodge. This is a fee based event and reservations are required.

Pipestem Resort SP – East River Mountain Town Band Christmas Concert

The annual Sunday afternoon of Christmas and holiday music performed by the 45 member East River Mountain Town Band of Bluefield, WV and the surrounding area. The concert will take place in the Conference Center of McKeever Lodge and will begin at 3:00 pm. There is no charge to attend, everyone is welcomed to attend this Sunday in the park program.

North Bend State Park – 7th ANNUAL LITTLE PRINCESS BALL

Bring your little princess (ages 5-12) to this father – daughter weekend at North Bend State Park. Celebrate with dancing, music, arts and crafts, and more. Dress your daughter in her favorite party dress and be prepared to make some special memories. Photos will be taken of fathers and daughters. Live DJ and Dance Radio personality and DJ, Jack Horton from V96.9 in Parkersburg. This is a fee based event. Advance reservation required.