New River Gorge National Park
Exploring Babcock State Park and New River Gorge National Park - Last weekend, Milo and I embarked on a delightful adventure to Babcock State Park West Virginia with a few friends. We chose this area specifically because of its proximity to New River Gorge National Park (plus it was super affordable). We opted for a cozy tent camping spot nestled in the shade, complete with convenient communal bathrooms—an essential perk for any camping trip. I personally liked this campsite because it was isolated while also being close enough to other people that we didn’t feel completely alone in the middle of the woods.
Babcock State Park offers multiple hiking trails, which was a huge plus! Though most of our day plans included driving over to the gorge areas, it was nice to have so many options within walking distance. Most of the trails of are not only shaded but also lead to swimming holes and small waterfalls! Keep that in mind if you will need enough time to let your dog dry out throughout the day.
Our campsite was in walking distance to the Manns Creek Gorge Trail, a moderate 2 mile (one way) trail that eventually led us to some water where we cooled off. If you are deciding to hop off this trail and into the swimming areas, please remember that it is both rocky and slippery for both you and your pet (we had a man down incident ourselves lol poor Ronnie). Milo is very used to these conditions but not all dogs might do well veering off trail.
Our first major stop at New River Gorge National Park was the Canyon Rim Visitor Center. A quick 20-minute drive from our campsite led us to this gateway to stunning vistas of the Gorge Bridge. Climbing down the wooden steps to the overlooks, we were greeted by breathtaking panoramic views. I will say though, the way up had us all gasping for breath by the end…safe to say there are a lot of steps.
Of course, we couldn't resist capturing a snapshot in front of the iconic park sign—an essential memento of our visit.
Reminders! - Choosing to explore before the lunch rush allowed us to savor the beauty of the park without the crowds.
Our journey continued with a scenic drive down Fayette Station Road, tracing the base of the towering bridge. Along this winding, one-way road, several pull-offs offered perfect spots to pause and soak in the scenery.
For those eager to lace up their hiking boots, New River Gorge Park boasts a plethora of trails suitable for both two-legged and four-legged adventurers. Consider exploring the Endless Wall Trail or the Long Point Trail for breathtaking views and dog-friendly paths. The park's proximity to Summersville Lake is also a nice little treat! We took the crew and Milo to a local swimming area where we could cool off, surrounded by other water-loving canines enjoying the rocky terrain.
To cap off our memorable day, we couldn't resist a pit stop at Fat Eddies for some ice cream, followed by a visit to a nearby overlook to bask in the beauty of the region.
We took this trip mid-summer, so it was important we packed strategically—especially during the sweltering heat. We recently purchased a Ruffwear Cooling Vest to help with the heat on hikes and nonshaded areas. For more insights into our camping essentials and tips, visit my blog dedicated to the art of packing essentials.
Final thoughts - Whether you're planning a solo adventure or a family outing with your furry companion, Babcock State Park and New River Gorge National Park offer a wealth of natural wonders and activities. From scenic drives and hiking trails to refreshing lake dips and local treats, this corner of West Virginia promises an unforgettable outdoor experience for all. Join Milo and me on our next escapade—adventure awaits!
Remember, wherever your travels take you, pack wisely and tread lightly to preserve the beauty of our natural treasures. Happy trails!