The most amazing thing was that each cabin had internet connection. However, with over 4,100 acres of land protected by the park, there are numerous options for recreational activities. His humorous tales curl the lips on the grumpiest of people. Nature has a way of creating a natural wonder. Proper licenses are available online. Check in at the park office for drone use at other times. Other attractions include recreational activities like hiking, fishing and mountain biking, as well as whitewater rafting nearby in the New River Gorge. Escape the churn and burn of the daily routine and hit the road this summer. 28 seasonal cabins, 52 campsites, hiking trails, gift shop, & other park amenities. The park is most known for the Glade Creek Grist Mill, a fully functional replica of the original Cooper's Mill. Explore wide open spaces with plenty of room to roam. Address: 486 Babcock Road, Clifftop, WV 25831 History In the 1930s, two CCC camps located in Clifftop, Camp Beaver and Camp Lee became the site of what is now known as Babcock State Park. Every day. They feature electric, water, a fully equipped kitchen, bunk bed combined living/sleeping area, linens, bathrooms with showers and an outside grill. The park is 4,127 acres of beautiful woodland, and is about 20 miles away from the famous New River Gorge Bridge. long, this option follows the former railroad tracks of a railway that closed in 1956. Now before we continue, let me clarify that camping for me is not putting up a tent, rolling out a sleeping bag, and trying to make scrambled eggs in the morning over a campfire. Your guide to trusted BBB Ratings, customer reviews and BBB Accredited businesses. The original camp buildings are gone today, but Babcock's Campground is located at the former site of Camp Lee. Other amenities vary park to park. It was a really great experience all the way around. The campground is open the third Friday in April until the fourth Monday in October, weather permitting. (The second wash is pretty spectacular, and if my good camera got any decent shots you'll see them.) There are no events scheduled at this time. Babcock State Park, one of the oldest parks in West Virginia, is located within the boundaries of New River Gorge National River. The trail follows a beautiful hollow on the west side of the service road and main park road and has a few steep sections. The exterior surrounding lights are also minimal making it great for looking at the stars and really being out in the wilderness. The metal bridge along this spur was originally a gangplank from the showboat Rhododendron. Clifftop, Cabin area STATE PA K 1-833-WV-PARKS WVstateparks.com Babcock R. Park trail Descriptions Check back for updates to the schedule. Located about 20 miles southeast of the historic New River Gorge Bridge, Babcock State Park is also home to one of the most photographed spots in the state.The Glade Creek Grist Mill is a fully functional replica of the original Coopers Mill that was completed in 1976. Babcock State Park includes 4,127 acres of rugged and beautiful adventure. The trailheads are across from the Short Cut Trail or past the Natural Arch parking area on the right, if coming from the main park entrance. Located near the park headquarters, the Glade Creek Grist Mill is commonly photographed. Outdoor recreation includes hiking, biking, fishing, wildlife viewing and exploring historic sites like the Glad Creek Grist Mill. The trailhead is at the sharp curve on Boley Lake Road. Accepts major credit cards. BBB Accredited Cabin rentals near Dimondale, MI. Babcock State Park offers 28 cabins for vacation rentals. Babcock State Parks 52-unit campground has 28 sites with electric hookups and 24 non-electric sites. It's pretty much like Cabin 3, where we stayed, like these folks, in 2001--except it has fewer steps (38, by my count). Please enable Javascript in your browser to use all elements of our website. Mountain bikes are permitted but must be carried around difficult sections of the trail. Receive exclusive offers, inspirational stories, and travel regulation updates. Both cabins are above Glade Creek, though on opposite sides of the valley; 10 is past the mill, then down the hill on the Old Sewell Road. You can also bike along the Narrow Gauge Trail, Ridge Top Trail, Old Pond Trail, Twin Hollow Trail, North Slope Trail, Connector Trail, Short Cut Trail, Wilderness Trail, Triple Creek Trail and Manns Creek Gorge Trail. It accommodates tents or trailers and has a central bathhouse with coin-operated laundry, two water fill-up stations and two sewage facilities, firewood and ice are available for purchase, WiFi is available and There is no food service in the park youre on your own. The trailhead is at the gate before the Manns Creek intersection. Babcock is also located near several other cultural and natural attractions, and the route is along two scenic highways. Other parts for the mill came from the Onego Grist Mill near Seneca Rocks in Pendleton County. These rustic cabins are a perfect base from which you can explore the park's natural beauty. The wonder of winter in West Virginia is filled with untouched fallen snow, scrapes of skates along fresh ice and snow-capped mountain views you have to see to believe. cell phone service is available from most major cell phone companies. Babcock State Park was a gift to West Virginia from Babcock Coal and Coke, an operation which ran coal mines at Clifftop and a lumbering operation headquartered at Landisburg. The park features the Patterson House Museum and three overlooks of the Gauley River. The trailhead is shared with the Narrow Gauge Trail and is located next to Manns Creek Bridge on the service road. West Virginia fishing licenses are available for purchase online. Babcock State Park 241 Reviews #1 of 3 things to do in Clifftop Nature & Parks, Forests, State Parks 486 Babcock Rd, Butt, Clifftop, WV 25831-7240 Open today: 12:00 AM - 11:59 PM Save Review Highlights "Not to be missed" Nestled in among the many attractions for the New River Gorge national park, this state park was. The trail is mostly uphill if starting at the grist mill and mostly level if starting at the sharp curve. View the live stream of the Glade Creek Grist Mill. The trail has a fairly steep downhill section connecting to the Old Pond Trail. Hikers must return along the same trail or by park roads. Of special interest, the mill was created by combining parts and pieces from three mills which once dotted the state. This program is about an hour or a tad longer. Anglers also have a good opportunity to catch largemouth bass, bluegill, trout and channel catfish. Babcock State Park If you are looking for an authentic camping experience in the "Mountain State," consider renting one of the Glade Creek Cabins in Babcock State Park. Top 5 Instagrammable Fall Foliage Spots at State Parks, Most Instagramable Spots at West Virginia State Parks, West Virginia Division of Natural Resources. Cabin 14 has four bedrooms and can accommodate eight people. Bring your spirit for adventure and a smartphone with GPS! Only negative was no mirror in front of the sink, it was awkwardly located over the toilet for whatever reason. Attraction is located outside of the park. Every day. As you plan your mountain road trip, explore one-of-a-kind stays and traditional comforts along the way. Im not sure if other cabins have larger versions. Keep in mind the cabins book very quickly especially in the fall months. Campgrounds operated by federal and state agencies are not yet bookable on Hipcamp. As the sun sets. The trailhead is 300 yards north of the main intersection on the road leading to the Manns Creek picnic area. This rugged, beautiful reserve in West Virginia is known for its vistas over verdant mountain tops, vast expanses of pine forests, scenic Glade Creek Grist Mill, and just 20mi. This 276-acre park with a lodge and restaurant is known for its scenic overlooks of the New River Gorge and exciting transportation. An easy trail that's 2.5mi. Located 20 miles southeast of the New River Gorge Bridge, the park is most known for the Glade Creek Grist Mill, a fully functional replica of the original Cooper's Mill, which once stood on the grounds. An additional 15 cabins are located deeper into the park. Most of its working parts came from old mills that were no longer in use. The Glade Creek Grist Mill closes for the season on the last Sunday in October. There are many campsites available for campers as well as cozy cabins for those who want a more comfortable accommodation. If you have multiple properties with different mailing addresses, you can create a new property for each here. Babcock State Park 241 Reviews #1 of 3 things to do in Clifftop Nature & Parks, Forests, State Parks 486 Babcock Rd, Butt, Clifftop, WV 25831-7240 Open today: Closed Save Review Highlights "Not to be missed" Nestled in among the many attractions for the New River Gorge national park, this state park was. They offer whitewater rafting, zip lines, rock climbing/rappelling, mountain biking, Timber Trek (obstacle course in the trees), paint ball, stand up paddle boarding, kayaking and much more. Children can manage the trail but due to the cliff, should be kept an eye on! About Foodies, photographers, and history buffs alike can get down with West Virginia's Babcock State park. While not ideal, it was perfectly fine for me as I was traveling solo and Im not a very tall, large person. Located about 20 miles southeast of the historic New River Gorge Bridge, Babcock State Park is also home to one of the most photographed spots in the state. I never bumped my head. Rent a Cabin near Babcock State Park, West Virginia Add dates 2 guests Filters Discover What is glamping? Guests can also tour the fully operational Glade Creek Grist Mill and even purchase freshly ground cornmeal. It is much easier to walk downhill from the Skyline Trail. The trailheads are at the parking lot for the Natural Arch and at the gate before the intersection to the Manns Creek overlook. Lake Ovid, covering 410-acres, was developed . We also use third party cookies for advertising and analytics purposes. Hit the water for a nice relaxing day spent soaking up the sunshine. Whichever cabin you stay in, you can be sure to have a quiet place to relax and unwind. The park itself is really beautiful with 4,127 acres of forest, hiking trails, fishing, and mountain biking. They come with electricity and water, a fully equipped kitchen, linens, bathrooms with showers, wood fireplace and an outside grill. It's pretty much like Cabin 3, where we stayed, like these folks, in 2001--except it has fewer steps (38, by my count). Both cabins are above Glade Creek, though on opposite sides of the valley; 10 is past the mill, then down the hill on the Old Sewell Road. Visitors to the mill may journey back to a time when grinding grain by a rushing stream was a way of life, and the groaning mill wheel was music to the millers ear. The New River Gorge has some of the best whitewater rafting in America. As the third most forested state, our country roads are vibrant with color and a sight to behold in the fall. After an accidental fire destroyed the Spring Run Grist Mill near Petersburg, Grant County, only the overshot water wheel could be salvaged. Copyright 2023 West Virginia Department of Tourism. Awaken your a Planning a fun vacation or day trip doesn't have to be expensive. The Glade Creek Grist Mill on the park grounds has had its picture taken more than pretty much any other monument in the state, its a replica of the old Coopers Mill and an homage to the states milling history. Witness Almost Heaven's natural beauty Set out for the adventure of a lifetime and explore some of the best the Metro Valley has to offer on a mountain bike. A feature of the 4,000 acre park is a widely photographed grist mill. Known as the Little Bahamas of the East, this exotic lake is a popular spot for boating, swimming, scuba diving, and stand-up paddle boarding. Babcock State Park is best known as the site of the iconic Glade Creek Grist Mill, one of the most photographed landmarks in West Virginia. Suitable for biking. We use cookies to personalize content and ads, to provide social media features and to analyze our traffic. Early morning photos of this gem are breathtaking especially in Autumn. Boating is welcome at Babcock State Park, but proper license and stamps are required. 2023 Hipcamp, Inc. All rights reserved. The park, set on the rim of the Gauley River Canyon, was the setting for the 1861 Civil War battle during which Confederate troops were driven out of the Kanawha Valley. The trailheads are across from Campsite 26 and at the first parking area at Camp Washington Carver. It's recently become impassible by car; Joan and I hiked a mile or two on Tuesday morning and discovered two washouts that the park isn't planning to fix. From ATV excursions in small towns to scenic drives across the state, West Virginia is made for everyone. Glamping Hub is designed for modern browsers. A very small table was located near the end of the bed where you could eat meals indoors, along with two dressers which I never used, and a few wooden chairs. To find out how to opt out of our cookies or how our cookies work, please visit our Cookies Policy. Inside the cabin there was a small kitchen area including a medium sized refrigerator/freezer that would be great for most couples, a full sink, microwave, oven, and cabinets with dishes and glasses. Whitewater rafting, zip lining, and guided hiking are just some of the recreational trips you can try. The Glade Creek Grist Mill. All Hosts should review and adhere to these standards around providing a positive Hipcamp experience, being a thoughtful neighbor, and serving as a responsible citizen. This park encompasses more than 70,000 acres of land along the New River one of the oldest rivers in North America. Babcock State Park 486 Babcock Road, WV, 25831 (304) 438-3004 Website Rifrafters Campground 448 Laurel Creek Rd., Fayetteville, WV, 25840 304-574-1065 Website Camp McComas at Wild Rock Victor, WV Website Cedar Waxwing Cabin 273 Ames Heights Road, Lansing, WV, 25862 Website The Manor at Glen Jean Meadows Glen Jean, WV Website Suitable for biking. The basic structure of the mill came from the Stoney Creek Grist Mill which dates back to 1890. read more To show our appreciation, were offering 10% off all lodge room, cabins and campsites. Beury Mountain WMAin Fayette County is a popular spot for deer, turkey, and squirrel hunting. There are three types of cabins at Babcock State Park vacation cabins, legacy cabins, and economy cabins. Plunge into the clearest water east of the Mississippi. Check-in is after 4 p.m., and check-out is by 10 a.m. To show our appreciation, were offering 10% off all lodge room, cabins and campsites. Galveston, Oh Galveston: My Visit To Galveston, Texas, Coastal Mississippis Biggest Attraction: Kindness, What I Learned After One Week In The Villages, Thoroughbred Country Is A Hidden Gem in South Carolina, Discover This Small Georgia Town for Big Family Fun. 486 Babcock Road, WV 25831, View the live stream of the Glade Creek Grist Mill, West Virginia Division of Natural Resources, Blennerhassett Island Historical State Park. At two miles in one direction and rated moderate to difficult, the Skyline Trail is a little tougher but worth it for intrepid hikers thanks to spectacular vistas over a high cliff area. The mill and surrounding scenery provide the perfect backdrop for beautiful photos. It's the season where Almost Heaven comes alive. Suitable for mountain biking. I think this would have been cool had I been traveling with someone else or part of a group. Rent a boat and take to the lake, or let the kids hang onto the cell phones, so they can participate in a 21st-century-style scavenger hunt known as geocaching. An additional 15 cabins are located deeper into the park. The trailheads are at the grist mill and at a small parking lot in the sharp curve along the road to Boley Lake. The first 13 are located along Glade Creek close to the parks famous grist mill, you can almost hear its wooden frame churn. The Glade Creek Grist Mill is a fully functional replica of the original Coopers Mill that was completed in 1976. Whichever cabin you stay in, you can be sure to have a quiet place to relax and unwind. They are open mid-spring through October 31. Suitable for mountain biking. The trail begins at the former swimming pool parking lot and connects to the Wilderness Trail. All cabins have Wi-Fi, modern appliances and are stocked with cooking utensils, dishes, flatware, bed linens, and bath towels. The trailheads to this mostly level loop around Boley Lake are at the lake parking lot or at the gate above the grist mill. Overall Babcock State Park was a really great place to visit and I would love to come back and spend more than one day with more time to explore nature. We recommend you to update it for security reasons and to be able to use the site. Only show listings you can book instantly with no waiting for a Host's confirmation. They included a bundle of wood when I arrived though I didnt feel like starting a fire. AOTG is the largest adventure resort in the state. Babcock Camping Twenty-miles north of West Virginia's iconic New River Gorge Bridge, Babcock State Park offers its guests 4,127 acres of serene, yet rugged beauty. Three styles of cabins are available at Babcock, described below. It was named in honor of Edward V. Babcock.Completed in 1976 by combining parts of three other West Virginia grist . The park is one of the most photographed spots in the state and has some of the best views. Three styles of cabins are available at Babcock - Legacy, Vacation and Economy. Numbered posts and a booklet available at park headquarters take you around this self-guided trail, which leads to the Natural Arch off from the right side of the parking spur. Veterans Salute Discount: Take 10% off your entire stay with offer code VETS10. About One of West Virginia's most iconic locations, Babcock State Park has 4,127 acres of stunning scenery. The park makes for a superb getaway in a natural setting, and Babcock State Park hotels are ideal for retiring to after a busy day outdoors with your family. The trail follows a natural cliff line with spectacular vistas. 2023 Glamping Hub International Inc. All rights reserved. Babcock State Park has two cache sites for the technological scavenger hunt known as geocaching. Danford Island Park Trail. Other help included a skilled stonemason foreman who supervised the parks stone quarry and work on the administration building. For some more low key fun with the family, simply rent one of the paddleboats or row boats from the Boley Lake Marina. Check in and check out was easy took all of three minutes to sign the papers and get the keys. Babcock also offers a group tent camping area that can accommodate up to 20 tents and features a covered shelter with nine picnic tables, electric and a covered stone fireplace. You can learn more about Babcock State Park camping through their website. Suitable for mountain biking. Nature works her magic every autumn in West Virginia. The trailheads are at the service road between the campground and economy cabins and on Sewell Road approximately 0.75 mile below Cabin 13. The Battle of Carnifex Ferry is re-enacted here on odd-numbered years so be sure not to miss out. Just use code VETS10 when you make your reservation and present a valid military ID at check in. All plans for the administration building, cabins, and other work were drawn up by park staff at the park and approved by the Department of the Interior. Legacy cabins, also known as CCC cabins because they were built by the Civilian Conservation Corps in the 1930s, are of wood frame or stone construction and feature various room and bedding arrangements. Visitors can enjoy hiking the many trails through the mountains, canyons and along the river. Babcock State Park Share 100% Recommended Temperature unknown Official website (304) 438-3004 Park hours: Mon to Sun: 6:00am - 10:00pm Camping types: Reservable campsites. Suitable for biking. A valid military ID must be presented at check in. $175 night. It lies 20 miles southeast of the New River Gorge Bridge. A foot and bicycle trail, now, and pretty inconvenient on a bike. Check-in is after 4 p.m., and check-out is by 10 a.m. BABCOCK STATE PARK 4,127 acres OLD TOWN OF SEWELL SITE NEW RIVER NATURAL AREA Intensive Use Area SEWELL ROAD 11 41 41 19 33 Cabins Cabin Type Capacity Cabin Number Legacy 2 person 17, 18 . Stop by the park office to pick up a trail guide on your way out. Amenities include fully equipped kitchens, linen service, central heat and air conditioning, gas or wood fireplace and an outside grill. There was a tiny screened in porch which would have been better if it were even just slightly larger. Vacationers at Babcock may select from among 13 log cabins located by Glade Creek (trout stream) - (may require access by as many as 65 steps), five cabins of frame construction, 8 bungalow cabins and 2 handicap . Expect to see remnants of the former railway, including railroad ties and telegraph poles. Outside was a fire pit, a BBQ pit, and a large picnic table which I actually did use during my stay. Skip to main content. Review. Guests are welcome to take to the water in their own boat in Babcock State Park but the correct permits need to be issued beforehand. Lepp is back and live on stage at Beech Fork State Park, July 22, 2023. The first 13 are located along Glade Creek close to the park's famous grist mill, you can almost hear its wooden frame churn. . About One of West Virginia's most iconic locations, Babcock State Park has 4,127 acres of stunning scenery. At night hunker down at the campfire with a cold one in your hand, and listen to the fresh fish sizzle on the skillet. This short trail is a mere half-mile, and while not very challenging, most people hike this path for the stunning views offered at the end. The park itself is very well kept, and the Gristmill certainly . The Glade Creek Grist Mill at Babcock is a new mill that was completed in 1976. Subscribe for the latest road trip ideas, behind the scenes updates, travel tips & videos from Bill On The Road! Motors must be electric, and no boat launch area is available. The trail has some uphill sections from either starting point. The Glade Creek Grist Mill, a reproduction of the historic Cooper's Mill that formerly existed on the property, is the park's most famous feature. This short, steep trail connects Skyline Trail with Narrow Gauge Trail and is a stone staircase constructed by the Civilian Conservation Corps in the 1930s. Campsites may be reserved anytime online, by phone, or at the campground office. All cabins have Wi-Fi, modern appliances and are stocked with cooking utensils, dishes, flatware, bed linens, and bath towels. Drones may not be flown over buildings or the parking area, and must stay a minimum of 20 feet away from the mill. Rent a boat and take to the lake, or let the kids hang onto the cell phones, so they can participate in a 21st-century-style scavenger hunt known as geocaching. Kitchen with range, refrigerator/freezer, and cookware, Cabins 3, 10, 17, 18 accommodate two people, Cabins 1, 4-9, 19 accommodate four people, Central heat and air conditioning (Cabins 16-20), Blennerhassett Island Historical State Park. Railroad ties, telegraph poles and other remnants of the old railway are still evident. While not suitable for very young children, older kids will love the adventure. To be completely honest it may be hard for me to come up with many cons. read more Reviewed 2 weeks ago The trailheads are at Manns Creek overlook in the picnic area and across the road from Cabin 5. With a stay in Babcock State Park cabins, opportunities for families to enjoy this diverse nature reserve are in abundance. Suitable for biking. Paddleboats, rowboats and canoes are also available for rent at the Boley Lake Marina, between Memorial Day weekend and Labor Day. These rustic cabins are a perfect base from which you can explore the park's natural beauty. See trail descriptions below. Almost heaven in West Virginia at Babcock Campground! It features three creek crossings. Vacation cabins at Babcock State Park are modern cabins with heat air conditioning, gas fireplaces, television, microwaves, and fully equipped kitchens, linens, and relaxed settings. The adventures continue! The first half of the trail is level and follows Manns Creek. A spur from the grist mill gate is 0.5 mile, uphill and moderately difficult. I was invited to try one of the cabins located inside the park and I will share with you the pros and cons. Whether you prefer a luxury retreat at a world-class resort or a rustic campsite stay under starry night skies, West Virginia has accommodations for every type of traveler. *Offer is not available at Stonewall Resort State Park. They put me in an economy cabin which appears to be the cheapest of the three. And within a 20-minute drive is the New River, which provides more fishing opportunities.