Beth Copenhaver
Beth Copenhaver is a Virginia-based writer who has lived in the shadow of the Blue Ridge Mountains for nearly a decade. For Only In Your State, she covers hiking trails, locally-owned restaurants, and under-the-radar destinations across Virginia — places that rarely make it onto major tourism maps but absolutely should. A devotee of last-minute day trips and mountain views, Beth approaches Virginia with the firsthand, unhurried curiosity of someone who has spent years exploring it one back road at a time.
The 5 Best Outdoorsy Towns to Explore in Virginia
If you love getting outside, you'll be in excellent company in any of these adventure-filled small towns.
Visit the Hidden Gem Small Town Right Next Door to Pickett CCC Memorial State Park
This quiet town on the Cumberland Plateau is the very definition of Appalachian charm.
This Campground Near Cuyahoga Valley National Park Is Perfect for an Ohio Escape
This secluded campground near Cuyahoga Valley National Park is one of Ohio’s best kept secrets. Here’s what to expect and how to visit.
Visit the Hidden Gem Small Town Right Next Door to Hungry Mother State Park
With a walkable main street, beautiful architecture, and plenty of Appalachian charm, Marion is the perfect home base for all your state park adventures.
One of South Carolina’s Quirkiest Towns Is Still Flying Under the Radar
Learn all about one of the quirkiest towns in South Carolina, filled with unique attractions and small-town charm. A hidden gem worth exploring.
Take a Unique Adventure on Utah’s Most Scenic Rail Trail
This scenic rail trail in Utah offers incredible views without the tough climb. Here’s why it’s better than your typical hike.
You Haven’t Tried True Tennessee Comfort Food Until You’ve Been Here
This spot serves true Tennessee comfort food you have to try, with hearty dishes, local flavor, and an unforgettable dining experience.
One of North Carolina’s Quirkiest Towns Is Still Flying Under the Radar
A cat-themed museum, a lofty staircase, and breathtaking hiking trails are just a few places that define this mountain town.
One of Virginia’s Quirkiest Towns Is Still Flying Under the Radar
Nestled in the mountains of southwestern Virginia, this lovable town has more to it than you may have realized.
Skip the Hike and Try This Paddling Trail in Florida Instead
Float along one of Florida's most stunning spring-fed rivers on this tranquil, lovely paddle trail.
The Small-Town State Park in North Carolina Locals Want To Keep to Themselves
Discover a peaceful small-town state park in North Carolina that locals love for its quiet trails, scenic views, and hidden gem appeal.
The Small-Town State Park in Virginia Locals Want To Keep to Themselves
Discover a peaceful small-town state park in Virginia that locals love for its quiet trails, scenic views, and hidden gem appeal.
Skip the Hike and Try This Maryland Paddling Trail Instead
This scenic paddling trail in Maryland offers incredible views without the tough climb. Here’s why it’s better than a hike.
The Paddle Trail in Vermont That’s Better Than Most Hikes
This scenic paddling trail in Vermont offers incredible views without tough climbs. Here’s why it’s better than a hike.
You Can Explore This Virginia City on Foot—and It’s Stunning
Virginia has no shortage of beautiful places, but this walkable city stands apart. Here's why it belongs at the top of your road trip list.
This Walkable Mountain City in North Carolina Is a Must-Visit Gem
This stunning North Carolina city is easy to explore on foot, with scenic views, local shops, and must-see attractions all within walking distance.
The Small-Town State Park in West Virginia Locals Want To Keep to Themselves
Discover a peaceful small-town state park in West Virginia that locals love for its quiet trails, scenic views, and hidden gem appeal
7 Magical Trees in the U.S. Worth Planning a Trip to See
Whether they are hiding in plain sight or residing deep within the forest, each of these magnificent trees has its own story to tell.
This Secluded Campground Near Shenandoah National Park Is One of Virginia’s Best Kept Secrets
Spend a few nights at this secluded farm near Shenandoah National Park, offering private, peaceful campsites in the most enchanting setting imaginable.
This Secluded Campground Near Lookout Mountain Is One of Georgia’s Best Kept Secrets
Tucked away at the base of Lookout Mountain, this peaceful, secluded campground is the perfect home base for all of your outdoor adventures.
3 Epic Airbnbs in West Virginia With Pools, Hot Tubs, and Unreal Water Views
Whether you're floating in a salt water pool, admiring views of the river, or treating yourself to a hot tub soak, you'll agree that these Airbnb goes the extra mile.
3 Epic Airbnbs in Kentucky With Pools, Hot Tubs, and Unreal Water Views
A saltwater hot tub, a breathtaking view of the Kentucky River, and an outdoor pool worthy of an Italian villa make these Airbnbs stand apart from the rest.
This Secluded Campground Near Asheville Is One of North Carolina’s Best Kept Secrets
Awake to stunning ridge line views at this secluded campsite just miles from downtown Asheville.
How Travelers Are Using Hilton Honors to Upgrade Their Vacations
Unlock room upgrades, free stays, ride share credits, and more when you sign up for Hiltons Honors.
4 Magical Spots You Didn’t Know Existed in DeSoto State Park
Meander through the woods of one of Alabama's most popular state parks to discover a few magical, out-of-the-way places.
The Small-Town State Park in North Dakota Locals Want to Keep to Themselves
Teeming with wildlife, natural beauty, and immersive hiking trails, this underrated state park in North Dakota is well worth the effort.
These Stunning Creekside Cabins in Oregon Feel Like a Total Reset
This beautiful property invites you to slow down and celebrate the simple things in life.
The Unique Alabama Cabin You’ll Remember Forever
With amenities like an outdoor shower and hot tub plus views of the lake, this oh-so-romantic cabin in North Alabama is about as romantic as it gets.
Between St. Augustine and Daytona Beach Is an Underrated State Park
Whether you're strolling the rocky beach or admiring the formal gardens, you'll quickly become enchanted by this picture-perfect road trip stop.
Seeing This National Park After Dark Is Better Than Daytime
When the sun sets in Shenandoah, the real magic begins.
The Unique Cabin in Virginia You’ll Remember Forever
This idyllic cabin getaway promises some of the best Blue Ridge Mountain views imaginable.
The Small-Town State Park in Vermont Locals Want to Keep to Themselves
With majestic mountain views, open meadows, and a Japanese Garden, this secluded state park belongs on your radar.
The Unique Tennessee Cabin You’ll Remember Forever
With jaw-dropping views of the Cumberland River plus plenty of thoughtful amenities, this Tennessee cabin is the perfect place to get away from it all.
3 Secret Spots You Didn’t Know Existed in Great Smoky Mountains National Park
From secret caves to historic homesteads, there are so many hidden gems just waiting to be discovered in the Smokies.
The Unique Georgia Cabin You’ll Remember Forever
Luxury, natural beauty, and just a hint of magic create an unforgettable cabin getaway in Dahlonega.
A Small Barrier Island in South Carolina Is Hiding an Unforgettable Airbnb Experience
Spot dolphins and other magical wildlife as you cruise toward a magical South Carolina barrier island.
3 Secret Spots You Didn’t Know Existed in Shenandoah National Park
A secret waterfalls, epic mountain views, and even a stroller-friendly trail are just waiting to be discovered during your next trip to Shenandoah.
The Unique West Virginia Cabin You’ll Remember Forever
Take your love of glamping to new heights when you book a stay at this magical treehouse cabin.
A Small Town in North Carolina Is Hiding an Unforgettable Airbnb Experience
This small town in North Carolina is home to a unique Airbnb Experience you’ll never forget.
A Small Town in Tennessee Is Hiding an Unforgettable Airbnb Experience
This small town in Tennessee is home to a unique Airbnb Experience you’ll never forget.
A Small Town in Virginia Is Hiding an Unforgettable Airbnb Experience
This small town in Virginia is home to a unique Airbnb Experience you’ll never forget.
The Virginia Airbnb Where You Can Hear Rushing Falls From Your Front Door
Wake to the sound of a rushing waterfall when you stay a few nights at this gorgeous creekside Airbnb in the Virginia mountains.
Why Travelers Are Falling for This Small Historic Town in Maine
Brimming with historic landmarks, maritime heritage, and rugged natural beauty, Castine is one of Maine's best-kept secrets.
The Connecticut Airbnb Where You Can Hear Rushing Falls From Your Bedroom Window
Nestled on a creek, this darling Airbnb cottage in Connecticut gives you a front-row seat to your own private waterfall.
Lake Jocassee in South Carolina Has Clear Waters That Rival the Caribbean
Here's why a spring-fed mountain lake could give the Caribbean a run for its money.
5 Reasons Why Ohio Is the Best Place To Retire
From its stunning scenery to its big-city amenities, Ohio has a little of everything that retirees are looking for.
4 Reasons Why Nebraska Is the Best Place To Retire
Nebraska is often overlooked, but its Midwestern authenticity will win you over.
Why Travelers Are Falling for This Small Historic Town in Vermont
With authentic charm and must-see small businesses, this Vermont town is one of the state's best-kept secrets. Not to mention the fact that it's stunning year-round!
Why Travelers Are Falling for This Small Historic Town in Mississippi
Fantastic fried seafood, one-of-a-kind antiques, wonderfully preserved architecture—there's a lot to love about this small Mississippi town.
This Tiny Police Station in Florida Is One of the Best Road Trip Stops You’ve Never Considered
This tiny attraction in the Florida Panhandle has quite an unexpected backstory.
