Post by Steve Sutton on Jun 11, 2010 16:12:16 GMT -5
SOUTH CHARLESTON, W.Va. – West Virginia Day and Father’s Day both fall on Sunday, June 20, and a variety of outdoor activities are scheduled for the weekend at West Virginia’s state parks and forests. From the master liar Bil Lepp at Watoga State Park to birthday cake at Blennerhassett Island, West Virginia Weekend highlights include:
Three Rivers Avian at Hawks Nest and Bluestone state parks – June 19
Three Rivers Avian Center presents “Birds of Prey” at Hawks Nest State Park at 1:30 p.m. and then flies to Bluestone State Park for a 7 p.m. program. The presentation features live birds, including “Spirit,” a golden eagle, and other hawks and owls found in West Virginia. “I personally like bird watching and generally concentrate on song birds and those smaller than a robin, so having Three Rivers at Hawks Nest with eagles and hawks is great,” said Megan Hash, Park Naturalist. Beth Mutchler, Bluestone naturalist agreed. “If you thought the owls in the Harry Potter movies were cool, wait until you see a barn owl up close.”
Hawks Nest State Park is located in Fayette County and is just a short drive to Babcock State Park. Bluestone State Park is located in Mercer County near Hinton. There is no charge to attend the Birds of Prey program at either park. Presentation is about an hour in length. For more details about this program, contact Hawks Nest at 304-658-5212 or Bluestone at 304-466-2805. Three Rivers Avian Center and the Birds of Prey program is scheduled at many state parks this summer. For a schedule, visit online www.wvstateparks.com, Event Calendar, summer programs.
Bil Lepp at Watoga State Park – June 19
Champion liar Bil Lepp rewards West Virginia Weekend with great story telling and the occasional lie at Watoga State Park in Pocahontas County near Marlinton. Lepp will be telling his stories June 19 at 7:30 p.m. at the Recreation Hall. Naturalist Julie McQuade said ‘It’s a great evening of storytelling by a master word slinger. Folks should plan to come early and enjoy a meal at the park restaurant and wander over to the rec hall for a fun evening.”
Lepp’s hour of mirth recounts trials and tales that will put a smile on the most ill-humored of kin. Bil Lepp is a champion of the West Virginia Liars Contest and has been a Featured Teller at the past seven National Storytelling Festivals and at The Smithsonian Folklife Festival. He is an author of three books of tales, four audio collections, and he has had stories published in several national magazines.
His stories may include: Punching the Lard, The Great Rope Swing Misadventure, The Divine Bovine, The Teacher in the Patriotic Bathing Suit, Mayhem Dressed as an Eight Point Buck, Buck Dog, or the Monster Stick. It’s all fun regardless of the story, attendance is free, and “that also is no lie,” according to Julie McQuade, naturalist at Watoga State Park. For information about Watoga State park cabins, campground, restaurant or activities, call 304-799-4087.
Faugh-a-ballagh (“clear the way”) for Irish Road Bowling at Blackwater Falls State Park – June 19
Irish Road Bowling continues to gain in popularity throughout West Virginia and Blackwater Falls State Park is hosting this outdoor activity on Saturday, June 19. A second day of fun is scheduled at Canaan Valley Resort on June 20.
“Irish Road Bowling is a great way to enjoy the outdoors and have fun playing an old sport that’s gaining in popularity,” according to Paulita Cousin, park naturalist. “If you’re looking for a lot of fun, we invite you to Blackwater Falls this weekend.” Irish Road Bowling uses a ball made out of iron and steel that is heavy enough to pick up speed, yet small enough for any person to handle. “Besides the basic rules and terms, all you do is hurl this 28 oz. ‘bowl’ of steel underhanded down a designated road and see how far it goes!” explained Cousin. The game is scored like golf, with the fewest number of shots from the start to the finish line winning. To learn more about the game, visit the website www.wvirishroadbowling.com. For Blackwater Falls facilities, programs and services, visit www.blackwaterfalls.com or call 304-259-5216.
“Redcoats” and Customer Appreciation at Pipestem Resort State Park – June 19
Music of the sixties and seventies will be featured at Pipestem Resort State Park as The Redcoats take to the outdoor amphitheater. The admission is $6 per adult and tickets may be purchased at the amphitheater gate. For more information, call 304-466-1800.
Pipestem’s Canyon Rim Center is celebrating West Virginia Day and Fathers Day with a shop wide merchandise discount June 19 and 20. “Anyone stopping in during gift shop hours can enjoy refreshments,’” said Sue Newton, shop coordinator. Canyon Rim features West Virginia-made glass.
Tygart Lake State Park Magic and Music – June 19
Garry Boothe's Magic Show will be performed at Tygart Lake State Park on Saturday, June 19. “Garry’s magic and balloon artistry is great and will be a happy celebration of the state’s birthday,” said Sherri Dowling, Activities Coordinator. The Magic of Garry Boothe is at 4 p.m. at the park’s recreation hall. There will be a concession stand hosted by the Tygart Lake Foundation to purchase food items and birthday cake for everyone following the magic show.
“Stepping Stone,” a family oriented band from north central West Virginia, will be playing at Tygart Lake State Park from 5:30 – 7:30 p.m. Tygart Lake State Park is located in Taylor County near Grafton. Noted for its lake and boating opportunities, 20-room lodge and vacation cabins, the park also features a full service restaurant, Wi-Fi service at the lodge, campground, and meeting rooms for smaller groups. West Virginia Day activities on June 19 are open to the public and free of charge. For more information about Tygart Lake State Park, call 304-265-6144.
Dave Breitmeir Flyfishing Seminar at Holly River State Park – June 18
Dave Breitmeir will be conducting a flyfishing seminar/demonstration at Holly River State Park. Breitmeir, featured in May 22, 2010, Charleston Gazette story “Buggin’ Out” by outdoor writer John McCoy, is a respected authority on the subject. Breitmeir’s seminar is scheduled for Friday, June 18 at 1 p.m.
Other activities during the West Virginia Day weekend include Friday campfire program and Saturday evening hayrides. Holly River is located in Hacker Valley in Webster County. To learn more about Holly River summer activities, visit Holly River’s website www.hollyriver.com or call 304-493-6353.
Fiddles and Vittles at Cass Scenic Railroad - June 19
Cass Scenic Railroad State Park has a special train on June 19, the Fiddle and Vittles evening run. A trip to Whittaker Station includes an evening train ride that departs around 5 p.m., dinner as prepared by The Last Run Restaurant and music at Whittaker by bluegrass band Allegheny Outback. The event packages includes an optional shop tour or Cass Showcase presentation and a tour of Camp Whittaker.
“Fiddles and Vittles, Murder Mystery trains and the Harvest Train are very special evenings at Cass in addition to the daily train trips offered at this historic area,” according to Trainmaster Fred Bartels. Reservations are required. For more information about special trains and reservations, daily train schedules, or company house rentals at Cass Scenic Railroad, call 304-456-4300.
Tee up at state park golf courses – June 19
A Youth Golf Clinic is scheduled June 19 for youth guests 16 and younger at Pipestem Pro Shop. Golf professional Phil Weichman hosts the free 45-minute workshop that starts at 9 a.m. Youth Golf Clinics is a feature of Pipestem’s new “Youth With Drive” golf program. Pipestem State Park is located in Mercer County near Athens and Hinton. Call 304-466-1800 to register.
Twin Falls State Park features a “Parent-Child” scramble format golf tournament and it is one of several tournaments this summer hosted by Twin Falls and open to the public. “It can be a daughter and grandfather team, mom and sons, or any parent-child combination,’ said Golf Professional Brian Wetzel. The Tournament starts at 9 a.m. with a shotgun start on Saturday, June 19. The fee is $40 and includes greens fee and cart rental for the parent-child team. Advance registration is strongly encouraged by calling Twin Falls Pro Shop at 304-294-4044. Twin Falls State Park’s golf course is in Wyoming County near Mullens.
Prickett’s Fort State Park brings history to life – June 19 and 20
Create a historical play in a day at the kids workshop scheduled June 19 from 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. at Prickett’s Fort State Park. Spend a day at the fort creating an original play about life on the 18th century frontier. Workshop instructor Joey Madia is a playwright, actor, and director with a specialty in working with young performers. Participants will interview historical interpreters, create characters, brainstorm and rehearse a 20 minute play to be performed that evening. Bring a bag lunch and your imagination!
Kids Workshop is hosted by the Prickett’s Fort Foundation and open to ages 8 to 14. Classes meet in the Visitor Center and there is a limited class size. The fee to participate is $27 for foundation members and $30 fornon-members.
On Sunday, June 20, Prickett’s Fort State Park celebrates West Virginia’s statehood with a reduced admission fee. From noon until 4:30 p.m. admission will be $1 and servings of lemonade and birthday cake will be part of the afternoon activities. For Prickett’s Fort information, call 304-363-3030 or e-mail info@prickettsfort.org.
Kid’s and Father’s Tops at Tomlinson Run State Park – June 19 and 20
The Tomlinson Run Foundation offers park visitors two fun family friendly activities on June 19. “Kids Day” is 1 – 3 p.m. and, for a small fee, kids play games and win prizes at the park miniature golf area. For camping fun, campers will decorate their sites in a Halloween theme for competition and kids can trick or treat marked campsites. Campers with the best decorated campers are announced in the evening. Evening hayrides are also part of Saturday fun through the campground. There is no fee for hayrides or for participating in the camper decoration and contest.
Father’s Day is June 20 and on this day fathers, when accompanied by at least one paying child, may swim, boat or play mini golf for free at Tomlinson Run State Park.
The “top park in the state,” located in New Manchester, Hancock County, features a group camp, campground, camper cabins and yurts, hiking trails, swimming pool with a water slide, and lake. For information, call Tomlinson Run State Park 304-564-3651.
Strike up the band at Kanawha State Forest – June 20
West Virginia’s birthday Celebration is Sunday, June 20, at 3 p.m. at Kanawha State Forest featuring the Kanawha Valley Community Band with director Robert M. Leighty conducting and sponsored by the Kanawha State Forest Foundation. There is no admission charge. The concert will be in the swimming pool area lawn and is dedicated to Charles E. “Chuck’” Ellison and Lee C. McMillan. Birthday cake is part of the festivities. Attendees should be a lawn chair or blanket for seating. For concert information, contact 304-925-2771
Blennerhassett Island cuts birthday cake – June 20
Enjoy a summer outing on the Ohio River and a stroll on Blennerhassett Island Historical State Park near Parkersburg on Sunday, June 20. Birthday Cake will be served as long as it lasts for this 147th birthday occasion beginning at 2 p.m. The Blennerhassett Island Mansion and the Putnam-Houser House are open. Bicycle rentals and horse drawn wagon rides are available. For additional information, call 304-420-4800. Guests visiting the island are transported by a 149-passenger sternwheeler, the Island Belle. For information about Blennerhassett Island Historical State Park, day visits and evening cruise events, visit www.blennerhassettislandstatepark.com or call, 304-420-4800.
Other parks with traditional summer activities on West Virginia Day include Cacapon, Pipestem, and Twin Falls Resort state parks, Beech Fork, Bluestone, Cedar Creek, and North Bend state parks.
Information about these special West Virginia Day activities and programs are online at www.wvstateparks.com under the tab Calendar of Events or call 1-800 CALL WVA and ask for the specific park by name to ask about the programs and activities at the state parks or forests this summer.
Seventeen state parks and forests feature weekly activities conducted by naturalists and programmers throughout the summer. Hikes, stream searches, crafts and evening programs are generally scheduled Wednesday through Saturday, are open to the public, and vary from park to park.
Three Rivers Avian at Hawks Nest and Bluestone state parks – June 19
Three Rivers Avian Center presents “Birds of Prey” at Hawks Nest State Park at 1:30 p.m. and then flies to Bluestone State Park for a 7 p.m. program. The presentation features live birds, including “Spirit,” a golden eagle, and other hawks and owls found in West Virginia. “I personally like bird watching and generally concentrate on song birds and those smaller than a robin, so having Three Rivers at Hawks Nest with eagles and hawks is great,” said Megan Hash, Park Naturalist. Beth Mutchler, Bluestone naturalist agreed. “If you thought the owls in the Harry Potter movies were cool, wait until you see a barn owl up close.”
Hawks Nest State Park is located in Fayette County and is just a short drive to Babcock State Park. Bluestone State Park is located in Mercer County near Hinton. There is no charge to attend the Birds of Prey program at either park. Presentation is about an hour in length. For more details about this program, contact Hawks Nest at 304-658-5212 or Bluestone at 304-466-2805. Three Rivers Avian Center and the Birds of Prey program is scheduled at many state parks this summer. For a schedule, visit online www.wvstateparks.com, Event Calendar, summer programs.
Bil Lepp at Watoga State Park – June 19
Champion liar Bil Lepp rewards West Virginia Weekend with great story telling and the occasional lie at Watoga State Park in Pocahontas County near Marlinton. Lepp will be telling his stories June 19 at 7:30 p.m. at the Recreation Hall. Naturalist Julie McQuade said ‘It’s a great evening of storytelling by a master word slinger. Folks should plan to come early and enjoy a meal at the park restaurant and wander over to the rec hall for a fun evening.”
Lepp’s hour of mirth recounts trials and tales that will put a smile on the most ill-humored of kin. Bil Lepp is a champion of the West Virginia Liars Contest and has been a Featured Teller at the past seven National Storytelling Festivals and at The Smithsonian Folklife Festival. He is an author of three books of tales, four audio collections, and he has had stories published in several national magazines.
His stories may include: Punching the Lard, The Great Rope Swing Misadventure, The Divine Bovine, The Teacher in the Patriotic Bathing Suit, Mayhem Dressed as an Eight Point Buck, Buck Dog, or the Monster Stick. It’s all fun regardless of the story, attendance is free, and “that also is no lie,” according to Julie McQuade, naturalist at Watoga State Park. For information about Watoga State park cabins, campground, restaurant or activities, call 304-799-4087.
Faugh-a-ballagh (“clear the way”) for Irish Road Bowling at Blackwater Falls State Park – June 19
Irish Road Bowling continues to gain in popularity throughout West Virginia and Blackwater Falls State Park is hosting this outdoor activity on Saturday, June 19. A second day of fun is scheduled at Canaan Valley Resort on June 20.
“Irish Road Bowling is a great way to enjoy the outdoors and have fun playing an old sport that’s gaining in popularity,” according to Paulita Cousin, park naturalist. “If you’re looking for a lot of fun, we invite you to Blackwater Falls this weekend.” Irish Road Bowling uses a ball made out of iron and steel that is heavy enough to pick up speed, yet small enough for any person to handle. “Besides the basic rules and terms, all you do is hurl this 28 oz. ‘bowl’ of steel underhanded down a designated road and see how far it goes!” explained Cousin. The game is scored like golf, with the fewest number of shots from the start to the finish line winning. To learn more about the game, visit the website www.wvirishroadbowling.com. For Blackwater Falls facilities, programs and services, visit www.blackwaterfalls.com or call 304-259-5216.
“Redcoats” and Customer Appreciation at Pipestem Resort State Park – June 19
Music of the sixties and seventies will be featured at Pipestem Resort State Park as The Redcoats take to the outdoor amphitheater. The admission is $6 per adult and tickets may be purchased at the amphitheater gate. For more information, call 304-466-1800.
Pipestem’s Canyon Rim Center is celebrating West Virginia Day and Fathers Day with a shop wide merchandise discount June 19 and 20. “Anyone stopping in during gift shop hours can enjoy refreshments,’” said Sue Newton, shop coordinator. Canyon Rim features West Virginia-made glass.
Tygart Lake State Park Magic and Music – June 19
Garry Boothe's Magic Show will be performed at Tygart Lake State Park on Saturday, June 19. “Garry’s magic and balloon artistry is great and will be a happy celebration of the state’s birthday,” said Sherri Dowling, Activities Coordinator. The Magic of Garry Boothe is at 4 p.m. at the park’s recreation hall. There will be a concession stand hosted by the Tygart Lake Foundation to purchase food items and birthday cake for everyone following the magic show.
“Stepping Stone,” a family oriented band from north central West Virginia, will be playing at Tygart Lake State Park from 5:30 – 7:30 p.m. Tygart Lake State Park is located in Taylor County near Grafton. Noted for its lake and boating opportunities, 20-room lodge and vacation cabins, the park also features a full service restaurant, Wi-Fi service at the lodge, campground, and meeting rooms for smaller groups. West Virginia Day activities on June 19 are open to the public and free of charge. For more information about Tygart Lake State Park, call 304-265-6144.
Dave Breitmeir Flyfishing Seminar at Holly River State Park – June 18
Dave Breitmeir will be conducting a flyfishing seminar/demonstration at Holly River State Park. Breitmeir, featured in May 22, 2010, Charleston Gazette story “Buggin’ Out” by outdoor writer John McCoy, is a respected authority on the subject. Breitmeir’s seminar is scheduled for Friday, June 18 at 1 p.m.
Other activities during the West Virginia Day weekend include Friday campfire program and Saturday evening hayrides. Holly River is located in Hacker Valley in Webster County. To learn more about Holly River summer activities, visit Holly River’s website www.hollyriver.com or call 304-493-6353.
Fiddles and Vittles at Cass Scenic Railroad - June 19
Cass Scenic Railroad State Park has a special train on June 19, the Fiddle and Vittles evening run. A trip to Whittaker Station includes an evening train ride that departs around 5 p.m., dinner as prepared by The Last Run Restaurant and music at Whittaker by bluegrass band Allegheny Outback. The event packages includes an optional shop tour or Cass Showcase presentation and a tour of Camp Whittaker.
“Fiddles and Vittles, Murder Mystery trains and the Harvest Train are very special evenings at Cass in addition to the daily train trips offered at this historic area,” according to Trainmaster Fred Bartels. Reservations are required. For more information about special trains and reservations, daily train schedules, or company house rentals at Cass Scenic Railroad, call 304-456-4300.
Tee up at state park golf courses – June 19
A Youth Golf Clinic is scheduled June 19 for youth guests 16 and younger at Pipestem Pro Shop. Golf professional Phil Weichman hosts the free 45-minute workshop that starts at 9 a.m. Youth Golf Clinics is a feature of Pipestem’s new “Youth With Drive” golf program. Pipestem State Park is located in Mercer County near Athens and Hinton. Call 304-466-1800 to register.
Twin Falls State Park features a “Parent-Child” scramble format golf tournament and it is one of several tournaments this summer hosted by Twin Falls and open to the public. “It can be a daughter and grandfather team, mom and sons, or any parent-child combination,’ said Golf Professional Brian Wetzel. The Tournament starts at 9 a.m. with a shotgun start on Saturday, June 19. The fee is $40 and includes greens fee and cart rental for the parent-child team. Advance registration is strongly encouraged by calling Twin Falls Pro Shop at 304-294-4044. Twin Falls State Park’s golf course is in Wyoming County near Mullens.
Prickett’s Fort State Park brings history to life – June 19 and 20
Create a historical play in a day at the kids workshop scheduled June 19 from 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. at Prickett’s Fort State Park. Spend a day at the fort creating an original play about life on the 18th century frontier. Workshop instructor Joey Madia is a playwright, actor, and director with a specialty in working with young performers. Participants will interview historical interpreters, create characters, brainstorm and rehearse a 20 minute play to be performed that evening. Bring a bag lunch and your imagination!
Kids Workshop is hosted by the Prickett’s Fort Foundation and open to ages 8 to 14. Classes meet in the Visitor Center and there is a limited class size. The fee to participate is $27 for foundation members and $30 fornon-members.
On Sunday, June 20, Prickett’s Fort State Park celebrates West Virginia’s statehood with a reduced admission fee. From noon until 4:30 p.m. admission will be $1 and servings of lemonade and birthday cake will be part of the afternoon activities. For Prickett’s Fort information, call 304-363-3030 or e-mail info@prickettsfort.org.
Kid’s and Father’s Tops at Tomlinson Run State Park – June 19 and 20
The Tomlinson Run Foundation offers park visitors two fun family friendly activities on June 19. “Kids Day” is 1 – 3 p.m. and, for a small fee, kids play games and win prizes at the park miniature golf area. For camping fun, campers will decorate their sites in a Halloween theme for competition and kids can trick or treat marked campsites. Campers with the best decorated campers are announced in the evening. Evening hayrides are also part of Saturday fun through the campground. There is no fee for hayrides or for participating in the camper decoration and contest.
Father’s Day is June 20 and on this day fathers, when accompanied by at least one paying child, may swim, boat or play mini golf for free at Tomlinson Run State Park.
The “top park in the state,” located in New Manchester, Hancock County, features a group camp, campground, camper cabins and yurts, hiking trails, swimming pool with a water slide, and lake. For information, call Tomlinson Run State Park 304-564-3651.
Strike up the band at Kanawha State Forest – June 20
West Virginia’s birthday Celebration is Sunday, June 20, at 3 p.m. at Kanawha State Forest featuring the Kanawha Valley Community Band with director Robert M. Leighty conducting and sponsored by the Kanawha State Forest Foundation. There is no admission charge. The concert will be in the swimming pool area lawn and is dedicated to Charles E. “Chuck’” Ellison and Lee C. McMillan. Birthday cake is part of the festivities. Attendees should be a lawn chair or blanket for seating. For concert information, contact 304-925-2771
Blennerhassett Island cuts birthday cake – June 20
Enjoy a summer outing on the Ohio River and a stroll on Blennerhassett Island Historical State Park near Parkersburg on Sunday, June 20. Birthday Cake will be served as long as it lasts for this 147th birthday occasion beginning at 2 p.m. The Blennerhassett Island Mansion and the Putnam-Houser House are open. Bicycle rentals and horse drawn wagon rides are available. For additional information, call 304-420-4800. Guests visiting the island are transported by a 149-passenger sternwheeler, the Island Belle. For information about Blennerhassett Island Historical State Park, day visits and evening cruise events, visit www.blennerhassettislandstatepark.com or call, 304-420-4800.
Other parks with traditional summer activities on West Virginia Day include Cacapon, Pipestem, and Twin Falls Resort state parks, Beech Fork, Bluestone, Cedar Creek, and North Bend state parks.
Information about these special West Virginia Day activities and programs are online at www.wvstateparks.com under the tab Calendar of Events or call 1-800 CALL WVA and ask for the specific park by name to ask about the programs and activities at the state parks or forests this summer.
Seventeen state parks and forests feature weekly activities conducted by naturalists and programmers throughout the summer. Hikes, stream searches, crafts and evening programs are generally scheduled Wednesday through Saturday, are open to the public, and vary from park to park.