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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.

Trips & Routes

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.

by Beth Copenhaver
on Jun 9
Two bikers along High Bridge Trail in Farmville, Virginia, on a summer day.
Nature
National & State Parks

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.

by Beth Copenhaver
on Jun 7
Main street in downtown Jamestown, Tennessee, with historic buildings and shops under a bright blue sky.
Stays

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.

by Beth Copenhaver
on Jun 5
White tents on platforms arranged in a semi-circle with green trees in the background and a picnic table visible.
Nature
National & State Parks

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.

by Beth Copenhaver
on Jun 5
Historic brick bank building in downtown Marion, Virginia, on a street corner with mountains in the distance.
Trips & Routes

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.

by Beth Copenhaver
on Jun 2
An artist painting a fruit stand outside as part of ArtFields in Lake City, SC.
Nature

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.

by Beth Copenhaver
on May 29
A paved rail trail in Utah going through open prairie with mountains and a big sky overhead.
Food

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.

by Beth Copenhaver
on May 27
Close up of bright yellow sign with red and black text that reads "Gus's World Famous Fried Chicken."
Trips & Routes

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.

by Beth Copenhaver
on May 26
Big mural says "Greetings from Sylva" painted in blue with colorful decorations
Trips & Routes

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.

by Beth Copenhaver
on May 26
Historic downtown Abingdon, showing the Barter Theatre and other historic brick buildings under a blue sky
Nature

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.

by Beth Copenhaver
on May 22
A group of kayakers paddling along the Weeki Wachee River in Florida with clear blue water.
Nature

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.

by Beth Copenhaver
on May 21
View from the top of Mount Morrow at the namesake state park, with rolling hills under a blue sky.
Nature

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.

by Beth Copenhaver
on May 21
A kayaker paddles calmly on the James River, with rolling hills in the background and a blue sky overhead at James River State Park in VA.
Nature

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.

by Beth Copenhaver
on May 20
A paddler makes their way down the calm creek at Eden Mill Nature Center on a lovely summer day
Nature

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.

by Beth Copenhaver
on May 20
Two kayakers on the Waterbury Reservoir Paddle Route in Vermont
Trips & Routes

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.

by Beth Copenhaver
on May 19
Aerial view of Downtown Richmond, Virginia, with the Virginia Capitol Building in the middle surrounded by green lawn and skyline under blue sky.
Trips & Routes

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.

by Beth Copenhaver
on May 18
Downtown Asheville, showing storefronts and pedestrians under a beautiful blue sky.
Nature

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

by Beth Copenhaver
on May 15
The riverbank at Audra State Park in WV showing green trees on the edge and a blue sky overhead.
Trips & Routes

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.

by Beth Copenhaver
on May 14
Magical Burr Oak tree in Missouri standing in an open field with the sunset in the background
Stays

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.

by Beth Copenhaver
on May 8
Beautiful secluded campsite near Shenandoah National Park in VA with wildflowers, a private horseshoe pit, green trees, and a level campsite.
Stays

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.

by Beth Copenhaver
on May 8
Secluded campsite in Georgia showing white tent on a camping platform with lots of space, fire pit, and ridge in the background.
Stays

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.

by Beth Copenhaver
on May 8
Aerial view of Airbnb in WV with private pool and hot tub
Stays

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.

by Beth Copenhaver
on May 8
Villa-like Airnb in Kentucky with stunning swimming pool and grand design.
Stays

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.

by Beth Copenhaver
on May 7
Perspective of a camper setting up a site as seen from an orange tent with a mountain ridge in the distance
Trips & Routes
Travel Preparation & Advice

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.

by Beth Copenhaver
on Apr 30
Happy traveler checks into hotel front desk scanning her phone.
Experiences

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.

by Beth Copenhaver
on Apr 30
A boardwalk trail meanders through a lush green forest at DeSoto State Park in Alabama.
Nature

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.

by Beth Copenhaver
on Apr 28
Towering evergreens, open fields, and a blue sky in North Dakota.
byLake Creek Lodge

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.

by Beth Copenhaver
on Apr 28
Picturesque, historic cabins perched near a creek near Sisters, OR, surrounded by tall pines
Stays

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.

by Beth Copenhaver
on Apr 26
Modern cabin surrounded by green trees with a slanted roof and large windows
Trips & Routes

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.

by Beth Copenhaver
on Apr 25
A live oak tree surrounded by beautiful gardens and other grees in Florida.
Nature

Seeing This National Park After Dark Is Better Than Daytime

When the sun sets in Shenandoah, the real magic begins.

by Beth Copenhaver
on Apr 24
Sign for Big Meadows along Skyline Drive with the night sky and Milky Way overhead
Stays

The Unique Cabin in Virginia You’ll Remember Forever

This idyllic cabin getaway promises some of the best Blue Ridge Mountain views imaginable.

by Beth Copenhaver
on Apr 20
A rustic wooden sign reading 'The Morton's Buck Mountain' in front of a quaint cabin with a view in Virginia.
Nature

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.

by Beth Copenhaver
on Apr 20
A meandering hiking path winds through a meadow next to the label "Garden Trail" in Vermont.
Stays

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.

by Beth Copenhaver
on Apr 18
View from covered deck on a TN Airbnb showing Cumberland river with mountains surrounding
Experiences

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.

by Beth Copenhaver
on Apr 17
Woman hikes by beautiful cloudy overlook in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park
Stays

The Unique Georgia Cabin You’ll Remember Forever

Luxury, natural beauty, and just a hint of magic create an unforgettable cabin getaway in Dahlonega.

by Beth Copenhaver
on Apr 16
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