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It’s time to count the top 5 parks in the The Eastern Panhandle of West Virginia, offering several beautiful parks and outdoor spaces for all ages to explore. Whether you’re a full-time resident of Jefferson County or are just visiting the historic towns of Shepherdstown and Harpers Ferry, here are five of the best parks to visit during your stay in West Virginia:
Top 5 Parks in the Eastern Panhandle
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The Eastern Panhandle of West Virginia is home to a collection of beautiful parks that offer stunning natural landscapes and recreational opportunities. Each park presents a unique blend of natural beauty and amenities, making it an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts and families seeking memorable experiences amidst nature’s splendor.
Harpers Ferry National Historical Park (Harpers Ferry)
Just a short drive from Charles Town, the Harpers Ferry National Historical Park is a must-visit destination when enjoying the Jefferson County and the Eastern Panhandle. Immerse yourself in the rich history of the area, explore the town’s historic buildings and museums, and take in the breathtaking views where the Potomac and Shenandoah rivers meet. The park also offers hiking trails for all skill levels, including portions of the famous Appalachian Trail. Intermingled into the best parts of Harpers Ferry, it is easy to jump from the great outdoors and into the local shops and restaurants.
Sleepy Creek Wildlife Management Area (Hedgesville)
Located in Berkeley County and Morgan County outside of Martinsburg and Berkeley Springs, the Sleepy Creek Wildlife Management Area is a vast natural area spanning over 22,000 acres. It offers the most basic and rustic outdoor activities, including hiking, bird watching, fishing, and hunting (in designated areas and seasons). The area features diverse ecosystems, beautiful streams, and serene forests, attracting a wide range of animals and bird species. Look out for waterfowl, raptors, songbirds, and migratory birds in this scenic wildlife area. If you’re searching for undisturbed nature then there is plenty to find at Sleepy Creek.
Cacapon Resort State Park (Berkeley Springs)
Located in Morgan County in the renown historic town of Berkeley Springs, Cacapon Resort State Park is a scenic park encompassing over 6,000 acres. The park offers an array of outdoor activities, including hiking trails, horseback riding, fishing, and swimming in the park’s lake. Visitors can also enjoy golfing at the Robert Trent Jones Sr. designed golf course or relax in the park’s lodge and cabins. The park completed a major expansion in 2022 that added an additional 78 guest rooms, an indoor pool, and upgraded dining facilities. Far from the most rustic outdoor option, Cacapon is a great family destination for weekend trips out of the metropolitan area surrounding Washington, D.C.
James Rumsey Monument and Park (Shepherdstown)
Rumsey Monument Park, located in the charming town of Shepherdstown in Jefferson County, is a small but lovely park that commemorates James Rumsey, an early pioneer in steamboat technology. The park provides a peaceful setting with benches, green spaces, and an awe-inspiring view of the Potomac River. It’s a great spot to relax, have a picnic, or take a stroll to see the riverfront. Rumsey Monument is easy to reach from downtown Shepherdstown. The statue and river provides a great backdrop to commemorate your trip with a photo.
Poor House Farm Park (Martinsburg)
Situated in Berkeley County near Martinsburg, Poor House Farm Park is a 65-acre park that offers a range of recreational activities. The park features walking and biking trails, playgrounds, picnic areas, sports fields, and a disc golf course. It’s a great place for families, nature lovers, and sports enthusiasts to enjoy outdoor activities. The ecosystem is full of diverse habitats, including open fields, wooded areas, and a small lake. Keen bird enthusiasts should keep an eye out for warblers, finches, sparrows, woodpeckers, and more.
Other Great Parks in the Panhandle
Jefferson Memorial Park (Charles Town)
Maybe the nicest in Jefferson County, the park features a hard-surface walking trail, three tennis courts, two basketball courts, two playground areas, four pavilions, a Veteran’s memorial, and an outdoor public swimming pool – the only such facility currently in Jefferson County.
Morgan’s Grove Park (Shepherdstown)
A 25 acre community park offering a range of recreational opportunities. Appropriately, the park has a large outdoor playground area where children can have fun on the swings, slides, and other play equipment, plus open sports fields and a .8 mile walking path that are often used by locals. Additionally, the park’s open fields provide ample space for outdoor games, a sand area for beach volleyball, and a winding stream that traverses the land.
Berkeley Springs State Park (Berkeley Springs)
Known for its natural mineral springs and healing waters, the park’s centerpiece is the historic Roman Bathhouse, which dates back to the 18th century, offering visitors the chance to soak in the natural mineral springs in private baths, but the park also includes a modern spa, gardens and a picnic areas, and a family playground.
War Memorial Park (Martinsburg)
Offering walking trails, tennis courts, and playgrounds for families and visitors to enjoy, the park hosts well-maintained green spaces and picnic areas, public pools with a well-stocked concession stand, and a concert area that is often used for community festivals. It’s a beautiful park in the heart of Martinsburg.
With so many parks in the Eastern Panhandle of West Virginia it’s easy to find opportunities to appreciate nature, engage in outdoor activities, and learn about the region’s history. Whether you’re seeking hiking trails, historic sites, mineral springs, or simply a peaceful place to relax, these parks offer diverse experiences for visitors to enjoy.
