The Glades make up about 750-acres of highly acidic land, so it makes it that it can provide for plants more commonly found at higher latitures. There are cranberries, sphagnum moss, skunk cabbage, and some carnivorous plants.
The Cranberry Glades, which is a National Natural Landmark as of 1974, is a hotspot for tourists. It is absolutely beautiful if you have never been! I just love to visit the Glades and take in all of the beautiful nature.
Due to the land being highly acidic, it is pretty ecologically sensitive. So when you visit the Glades, you aren't allowed to leave the developed paths.
Watoga State Park is home to an 11-acre lake that is absolutely jaw-dropping. You can paddle-boat, row-boat, and even take a relaxing fishing trip on the lake.
Watoga State Park has 24 incredible cabins if you aren't feeling like sleeping in a tent. But if you are, there is unlimited amounts of space to pitch the tent and grab a sleeping bag!
My family and I hauled our small camper to Watoga years ago. My sister was only 3 or 4, so she doesn't even remember it. But it is certainly the best vacation that I have ever gone on with my family. One that I will always remember.
Anne Bailey's Lookout Tower has an incredible view that you just can't pass up.
Pictured above is the view from the Lookout Tower. It has over 10,000 acres of amazing forest and so many things to do, like the most stunning hikes and the prettiest sights to see.
The Greenbrier River runs through Watoga State Park, too, and is something that you won't want to miss.
Hawks Nest has several trails to hike, as well. The Hawks Nest Rail Trail is one of the prettiest ones! You get to see two bridges, waterfalls, and what is left of an old coal mine that operated until the 1920s.
The Hawks Nest Dam and tunnel can be seen clearly from the overlook.
The New River Gorge Bridge is near Hawk's Nest State Park, and is absolutely one of the most amazing things to visit while around Hawks Nest State Park.
The New River Gorge Bridge is the second highest bridge east of the Mississippi River.
To me, absolutely nothing in the world is better than jumping into a car with my family or best friends and hitting up West Virginia’s magnificent parks.
I love just grabbing a cooler filled with water and pop and grabbing some sandwiches and just heading out to connect with Mother Nature.
What is your favorite place to road trip to in West Virginia? Comment below!
