State and National Parks
River Expeditions is conveniently located near the heart of the 70,000 acre New River Gorge National Park where hiking and biking trails are yours to explore! Begin your exploration at the Canyon Rim Visitor’s Center where park rangers are on staff to lead interpretive hikes and point the way to the most unique spots within the park. Join a park ranger for a special activity, walk, or hike. Ranger-led activities provide an opportunity to learn more about the natural world that surrounds us and about the people who have shaped our past.
West Virginia is home to some of the country’s most beautiful state parks, as well. Be sure to check out these fabulous parks, within an hour’s drive of River Expeditions!
Hawks Nest State Park
Hawks Nest State Park encompasses 276 acres bordering a rugged section of the New River Gorge National Park and known for panoramic views of the river, 750 below, featuring a newly remodeled 31-room lodge, restaurant and conference center overlooking peaceful Hawks Nest Lake. The park is named after the osprey (some call them, “fish hawks”) that once nested on the cliffs. Today, many hawks, turkey vultures,, black vultures and the occasional bald and golden eagles are seen soaring above the canyon.
Babcock State Park
Babcock State Park offers its guests 4,127 acres of serene, yet rugged beauty, a fast flowing trout stream in a boulder-strewn canyon and mountainous vistas to be viewed from several scenic overlooks. History meets beauty with the Glade Creek Grist Mill, a re-creation of one which once ground grain on Glade Creek long before Babcock became a state park.
Little Beaver State Park
Little Beaver State Park is a 562-acre park featuring many outdoor recreational opportunities. The 18-acre Little Beaver Lake is open for fishing year-round with many types of game fish including bass, crappie, channel cat, bluegill and trout. Paddle and rowboat rentals are available seasonally. The park also offers five reservable picnic shelters, playgrounds, geocaching, and an activities building with game room. Trails are open for both hiking and biking. Little Beaver’s Campground offers 46-site camp sites 30 of which are gravel based and have water and electric hookup.
Pipestem Resort State Park
The 4,000 acre Pipestem Resort State Park has something for everyone. From spectacular scenic overlooks of the Bluestone Gorge to lodges, vacation rental cottages, campgrounds, golf courses, restaurants, modern conference facilities, and more.
Twin Falls Resort State Park
Twin Falls offers overnight accommodations ranging from a 47-room lodge located on the mountain top to secluded cottages or 50 site campground on almost 4,000 acres. For golfers, Twin Falls provides an 18-hole, Par 71 championship golf course. Other leisure activities at Twin Falls include twelve scenic hiking and biking trails, picnicking, swimming in an outdoor pool, full-service restaurant, and the history of the Pioneer Farm. Its two namesake waterfalls are reached by a hiking trail and are about 1/2-mile apart on the Marsh and Black Forks of Cabin Creek.
