Nestled in the heart of the Appalachian Mountains, Pipestem Resort State Park is a paradise for roadtrippers and travel enthusiasts. Whether you seek thrilling outdoor activities or a peaceful retreat surrounded by nature, this state park in West Virginia offers a perfect blend of adventure and tranquility. This blog post will explore why Pipestem Resort State Park should be your next getaway destination.
Why Visit Pipestem Resort State Park?
A Perfect Escape in the Appalachians
Pipestem Resort State Park is in southern West Virginia, about 14 miles north of Princeton, which makes it quite accessible from the interstate. This beautiful park spans over 4,050 acres and is known for its breathtaking views, diverse wildlife, and serene environment.
It’s an ideal spot for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of daily life and reconnect with nature.
Accommodations to Suit Every Budget
When planning your stay, Pipestem Resort State Park offers various lodging options. From 26 cozy cabins to two lodges, there’s something for every budget and desire.
On my visit, I stayed in a king suite at McKeever Lodge. My room featured a small balcony overlooking the gorge, where you can enjoy the epic morning fog over the mountains. It is a perfect spot to admire the scenery and wildlife that comes out to play around sundown. Many rooms have been recently upgraded, so be sure to request one of those.
Another lodging option is camping via tent, camper, or RV. Call the WV park system at 1-811-WV-Parks to book. It is just a short distance from the main lodge.
If you forget anything necessary for your stay, they probably have it in the Canyon Rim Center Gift Shop, also loaded with fine gifts, books, and souvenirs.
Adventure Awaits
Zip Lining Over Bluestone Gorge
For thrill-seekers, the Pipestem Peaks Zip Line Tour is a must-try experience. This exhilarating adventure takes you soaring over the Bluestone River, offering unparalleled views of the West Virginia wilderness. It’s a fantastic way to get your adrenaline pumping while taking in the natural beauty from a unique perspective.
Participants must be ten years or older and between 100 and 250 pounds. The cost is around $105, but discounts are available. Tours depart every 1/2 hour from the Canyon Rim Center and last around 3-4 hours.
Excellent Fishing
Enjoy fishing at Long Branch Lake, a 16-acre property stocked with brown, golden, and rainbow trout. You’ll also find largemouth bass, bluegill, and crappies, amongst others. A WV fishing license is required
Whitewater Rafting in the New River Gorge
If you prefer water-based adventures, whitewater rafting in the New River Gorge is an experience you won’t want to miss. This adrenaline-pumping activity is perfect for bonding with family and friends while navigating the rapids and taking in the stunning scenery. Prices run around $149.
Golfing at Award-Winning Courses
Golf enthusiasts will be delighted by the two 18-hole award-winning golf courses at Pipestem Resort State Park. The championship-quality Par-72 and Par-3 courses offer challenging play and great views. You’ll appreciate the well-maintained greens and the serene surroundings.
Skeet Shooting for All Skill Levels
Skeet shooting is another popular activity at Pipestem Resort State Park. Whether a beginner or a seasoned pro, you’ll enjoy testing your skills and honing your accuracy. It’s a great way to spend an afternoon and challenge yourself in a controlled and safe environment.
If I can do it, anyone can. Prices run around $55 per person unless grouped in a package, as mentioned below.
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Family-Friendly Activities
Pipestem Resort State Park offers a variety of activities that cater to all ages. You’ll find a fun, high-energy game room (4th floor), a huge heated indoor pool, and a well-appointed exercise facility. If you are not a hotel guest and wish to use the indoor pool, the fee is $6 for adults and $4 for children.
There is also a cute little nature center 2 miles from McKeever Lodge. The weekly schedule, available at the front desk, shows what activities are upcoming.
Pipestem Adventures
Pipestem Adventures is the concessionaire that operates this majestic WV state park’s adventures. Visitors can choose from several activities, either a la carte or bundling.
Check-in at the mini-golf station to do many of the activities, such as laser tag ($25), axe throwing ($30), 3D archery ($20 and a real hoot!), mini-golf ($6), disk golf ($15), remote control cars ($35), or bike riding. E-bikes are also available for $35 per hour. You can purchase the All-Inclusive Adventure Zone Pass for $114, which includes everything in this paragraph.
Those interested in horseback riding should be sure to inquire about availability. Stable walk-ins are accepted; the rate is around $30 per person for a half hour.
Pipestem’s Splash Park and Adventure Lake
Pipestem was one of the first West Virginia locations to have the ultimate inflatables (mountains, slides, and trampolines) on the water, a big draw for kids, teens, and families. A $10 pass will give you access to the Pipestem Lake Beach area, whereas paddle boats run $8-10, and kayaks or canoes are the same.
This attraction is offered from mid-May through early September. Tickets are $21 per person (all-day) or $16 (half-day) to enjoy the beach and inflatables.
Pipestem Peaks Splash Park will appeal to the younger children in your party, with 18 things to see, do, climb on, and get wet with. The dump buckets may be the biggest hit! Please note this is a short drive from the resort.
Aerial Tram Ride for Stunning Views
One of the highlights of Pipestem Resort State Park is the aerial tram ride, $8 per adult. This 3,000-foot-long ride takes you down the mountain, providing a bird’s-eye view of the lush forests and rolling hills. It’s a unique way to immerse yourself in the area’s natural beauty and capture some incredible photos.
Relaxation and Wellness
After a day of adventure, why not indulge in some well-deserved relaxation? Pipestem’s Mountain Serenity Spa offers a range of treatments, including facials, manicures, and pedicures. There are several massage offerings, too, such as hot stone, couples, deep tissue, and therapeutic.
Two other treatments worth mentioning are Reiki and reflexology.
I had the Mountain Serenity signature facial, which was dreamy. It offered uber hydration and minimized visible lines and wrinkles. Besides my treatment, I really liked the spa’s choice of quality spa products, the relaxed vibe, and the friendly staff.
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On-Site Restaurants with Stunning Views
Pipestem Resort State Park features two on-site restaurants, the Bluestone Dining Room and Black Bear Grill. Both establishments offer tasty dishes and brilliant views.
Bluestone Dining Room
I ate at the Bluestone Dining Room for all meals during my stay. Besides really good food, I loved the floor-to-ceiling windows, which afforded the most amazing views.
For lunch, I chose the pulled pork BBQ with slaw on toasted brioche, and for dinner, the very tasty sun-dried tomato chicken pasta dish. I enjoyed breakfast the most. On the menu were omelets, pancakes, chicken & waffles, and classic breakfast items, making it hard to choose only one.
Though I didn’t have one of the restaurant desserts, I’ve heard nothing but rave reviews about the warm fruit cobbler and the Butterfinger indulgence.
Shout out to the West Virginia park system for the primo personalized china they now use. What a classy, unique touch. The restaurants also utilize local WV farmers for their fresh, seasonal produce and meat. And a special kudos for being a Coca-Cola account.
Grab a tasty treat at Tramway Sweets & Treats at the Canyon Rim Center. This 1950s soda shop and ice cream parlor offers cones, shakes, and sundaes, among other items.
The Oak Restaurant
For a dining experience outside of Pipestem Resort, visit The Oak, a gorgeous restaurant with a spectacular lake and farm setting less than ten minutes away. This nearby gem is fancy enough for a special occasion but relaxed enough to bring the family.
Start with the baked brie en croute (with a mixed berry reduction) and go big with the tantalizing Filet Mignon and broiled lobster tail. Another tasty choice is the Pork Medallions with apple slaw; it was so good I could have licked the plate.
Save room for The Oak’s homemade desserts– the peppermint ice cream is a crowd favorite.
Exploring Nearby Hinton
If you’re interested in exploring beyond the park, the nearby town of Hinton, just a few miles away, is worth a visit. Hinton offers a handful of shops, murals, a railroad museum, and restaurants. Go for a meal or coffee, and check out the sites of this growing West Virginia town.
I recommend Otter & Oak for a delicious coffee or tea and Lucky Rivers Cafe for a fabulous, healthy lunch. You can also get your photo taken in the Almost Heaven swing in front of Bluestone Lake. Don’t miss the Dairy Queen—locals claim it’s the best in the state!
WV’s Premier State Park Resort
Pipestem Resort State Park is a beautiful destination offering a great getaway or mini-vacation. Its stunning natural beauty, a wealth of activities, and cozy accommodations make it the perfect place to escape the daily grind and make memories.