The Naturalist Notebook — An Insider’s View of Watoga State Park

Hello everyone! Allow me to introduce myself. I’m Kayla Bowyer, the new naturalist here at Watoga State Park. This is the debut of the Naturalist Notebook. My name is Kayla Bowyer. As a naturalist, it’s my job to talk so please allow me to tell you a little bit about myself. I have been at …

Watoga Naturalist Activities — 4th of July Weekend, 2021

Happy 4th of July from Watoga State Park. We have some phenomenal Watoga naturalist activities during the 4th of July weekend for all ages to enjoy. For more information, please contact the office at (304) 799-4087 or email Naturalist Kayla Bowyer at kayla.r.bowyer at wv.gov. The following schedule is just for July 2 through July …

Our Volunteers Have Big Hearts At Watoga State Park

The volunteers at Watoga State Park work tirelessly behind the scenes to improve your experience at the park. Consequently, individuals and businesses graciously donate time, services, talents, materials, and yes, monies too. After all, they never expect anything in return. Above all, here at the Watoga State Park Foundation, our volunteers, donors, organizations, and businesses …

Watoga State Park’s Half Marathon and 5k Races

On Your Mark, Get Set, Go! In mid-August, Watoga State Park’s Half Marathon and 5k Races return to West Virginia’s largest state park. Running and walking enthusiasts prepare to be “on your mark” for details about the Sixth Annual Watoga State Park Mountain Trail Challenge Half Marathon and 5k events. Next, let’s “get set” with …

The Top 10 Things To Do At Watoga State Park — Part 2

In Part One of the Top 10 Things to Do at Watoga State Park, we utilized a musical theme. This blog has a historical angle. This list is not ranked in any particular order. Stay at a Historic Cabin or at One of Three Campgrounds — A Top 10 Must-Do To fully enjoy what Watoga …

The Top 10 Things To Do At Watoga State Park — Part One

While struggling recently to somehow narrow down an expansive list of the Top 10 Things to Do at Watoga State Park for this blog, John Denver’s smash hit “Country Roads” became stuck in my brain — for days. Other songs did also. Notably, tomorrow, April 12, 2021 marks the 50th anniversary of Denver‘s signature song. …

News You Can Use At Watoga State Park — The Activity Center

This edition of “Watoga State Park News You Can Use” showcases the building formerly known as the Rec Hall. It is now the Activity Center. And yes, it’s still usable in many different ways — just not the same as in decades gone by. Just a short walk from the park’s swimming pool is the …

Watoga State Park Photos Capture a Winter Paradise

Since spring is about to arrive, we say goodbye to winter at Watoga State Park with these photos. In fact, even the cold and snow could not keep photographers from capturing magical scenes at this winter wonderland. Special thanks to photographers Angela Hill, Stanley Clark, and Ann Groves for their unique perspective of Watoga State …

Watoga State Park News You Can Use — Cabins, Camping, and More

When you visit one of the oldest state parks in West Virginia, you may feel as if you just stepped back in time. While you can still experience that feeling these days, you can also enjoy modern-day amenities and conveniences. So here is some Watoga State Park news you can use! In the past few …