Mid-week GetAway, May 6-8, Watoga State Park (+) West Virginia

Some friends and I are going to Watoga State Park, West Virginia, in early May 2025. Add-on: The last morning (Thursday) to Beartown State Park, plus optional Droop Mountain. Stay in cabins, or you may do tent or RV camping.
Reserve in advance.

Tuesday May 6*:*
1 pm Meet at the Admin. building by the lake. Hike TM Creek trail and optional Pine Run trail.
Or hike separately to Brooks Memorial Arboretum trail (3 +/- 4.4 mi., 800').

4-5 pm+ Check-in with your reservation at the Admin building by the lake. If arriving later, an envelope with your instructions will be provided.

~6:30 pm Supper at the cabin (pre-arranged with participants). Socializing and games.

Wednesday 5/7*:* Ranger-led hike (Jesse's Cove Trail 6.5 mi, 1000' elevation). Meet Tim Lavender, ranger, at trailhead at Riverside campground at 9:30 am for 9:45 departure. Be prepared with hiking gear, min. 2 liters water, lunch, electrolytes if you like, hiking poles, sunscreen, layered hiking clothes and hat, emergency contact info., etc.

~6:30 pm Supper at the other cabin (pre-arranged with participants). Socializing and games.

Thursday morning 5/8
Early start. Pack up and check out of lodging.
Meet at 8:30 am (TBD) Drive ~ 30 minutes south to ranger-led hike at Beartown state park: interesting geologic and floral sights (.5 mi.) then Droop Mtn battlefield (2 mi.) finish time by ~ 11 am.

Some of us may to go to the Hot Springs on the way back (reservations required Omni hotel *), need swimsuit.

Note: The Lake Trail is an easy option for those who would go separately on any of the three days.

Hikers: bring your 10 essentials in backpack. Don't forget tick repellant, rain and layered clothing, hat, sunscreen/lip protection, sunglasses, hiking pole/s, lunch/snacks, plenty of water (2 liters).

Park admission and hikes are free of charge.

Lodging RESERVATIONS ASAP -- cabins or tent/RV camping.
Call 1-833-987-2757 (8 am-9pm 7 days) or
https://wvstateparks.com/
WVA state parks

• Watoga State Park Phone: 304-799-4087
• Email: [watogasp@wv.gov](mailto:watogasp@wv.gov)

ABOUT THE PARK
Located in the mountains of Pocahontas County, Watoga State Park is West Virginia’s largest state park. With 10,100 acres of land, Watoga is filled with many recreational activities including hiking, swimming, fishing and boating. Watoga Lake is known for excellent fishing opportunities and is part of the Division of Natural Resources' stocking program. A multipurpose building, museum and observation tower are just a few of the unique attractions at Watoga State Park.

• Cell phone service is limited in Watoga State park. Wifi is at the pool area and at Admin. building by the lake. Cell service is at top of TM Cheek trail.
  There is cell service in Beartown and Droop Mtn.
• Download map and driving directions before you leave!
• Bring headlamp/flashlight, lantern and camp chairs, and warm clothing for evenings. The weather fluctuates. Also you may bring games and drinks. Bring your own food for breakfast, lunch, snacks, and provide food for pre-arranged shared suppers. Closest restaurant is Jack's Corner in town of Seebert (pizza, subs, salads).