Scenic views as backgrounds for group photos, ample free parking, accessible restrooms, good food and secure, clean accommodations are five key elements to happy passengers and travelers. West Virginia State Parks personnel understand tour groups and recommend the following state parks for itineraries and trip planning.

Prickett’s Fort State Park

At the confluence of Prickett's Creek and Monongahela River is a re-creation of the original Prickett's Fort of 1774, which served as a refuge from Native American war parties on the western frontier of Colonial Virginia. Prickett’s Fort State Park features living history artisans of frontier life. Visitors also tour the Job Prickett house, built in 1859, and museum and visitors center. Tours are offered mid-April through October. For more information, visit www.prickettsfortstatepark.com or phone (304) 363-3030.

Blennerhassett Island Historical State Park

In 1798, Harman Blennerhassett, a wealthy Irish aristocrat, settled on an island in the Ohio River and built a magnificent home. Today, the mansion and grounds of Blennerhassett Island Historical State Park are open for tours May through October. Visitors are transported by the Island Belle sternwheeler to enjoy historic Blennerhassett Mansion as well as the Putnam House. The grounds also provide a lovely setting for picnics and catering is available. Other available activities include horse-drawn wagon rides, bike rentals and special evening events, such as Mansion by Candlelight or Brunch with Margaret. Visit www.blennerhassettislandstatepark.com or phone (304) 420-4800.

Pipestem Resort State Park

Known as the “year-round crown jewel of West Virginia State Parks,” Pipestem Resort State Park features breathtaking views of the Bluestone River Gorge and a range of overnight accommodations, including two lodges, cottages and campgrounds. The resort offers modern conference facilities, two  beautifully manicured golf courses, indoor and outdoor swimming pools, fishing and horseback riding. Join the park naturalist for a bird walk or an eagle survey, or visit area attractions such as the Bluestone dam, historic Bramwell or Tamarack. Visit www.pipestemresort.com or phone (304) 466-1800.

Cass Scenic Railroad State Park

In the mountains of Pocahontas County, Cass Scenic Railroad State Park offers excursions that transport you back to an era when steam-driven locomotives were an essential part of everyday life. A series of switchbacks guide the original Shay steamers up the mountain at grades up to 8 percent and sections near Bald Knob of almost 11 percent. Visitors can visit the re-created logging camp at Whittaker Station or participate in special event packages such as the Murder Mystery Train featuring the “Murder of Lumberjack Johnny Parker” or Fiddles and Vittles. Lodging is available in the park’s restored company houses in the heart of the Cass community. Visit www.cassrailroad.com or phone (304) 456-4300.

Cacapon Resort State Park

Nestled at the base of Cacapon Mountain in West Virginia’s Eastern Panhandle, Cacapon Resort State Park offers golfing, hiking, lake swimming and fishing, horseback riding and wobble clay (trap) shooting. Accommodations include the resort’s vintage lodge and popular restaurant, as well as three types of cabins for year-round rentals. This park is close historic Berkeley Springs and other destinations such as Harpers Ferry National Park. Visit www.cacaponresort.com or phone (304) 258-1022.

Hawks Nest State Park

Hawks Nest State Park, known for its panoramic views of the scenic New River Gorge, lies at the heart of whitewater rafting country. A modern, 31-room lodge and restaurant provides the perfect overnight stop to enjoy this area of West Virginia. An aerial tramway leads from the lodge to the bottom of the canyon, where visitors can engage in an exhilarating jetboat ride very close to the base of the New River Gorge Bridge. Hawks Nest is a great location for fall foliage trips. A Civilian Conservation Corps influence makes this park an exceptional destination. Visit www.hawksnestsp.com or phone (304) 658-5212.

Chief Logan State Park

Chief Logan Lodge, Hotel and Conference Center features 75 modern rooms and suites, a restaurant, guest laundry, an indoor pool, fitness room and hot tub.  Located one mile from U.S. 119, the lodge is less than a 15-minute drive from Chief Logan State Park which has a museum and an outdoor swimming pool with a waterslide and offers recreational activities such as hiking, tennis and miniature golf. In summer, the park showcases “The Aracoma Story” at the outdoor amphitheater. In winter, a park-wide Christmas lights show is a popular tourist attraction. Visit www.chiefloganlodge.com or phone (304) 855-6100.

Blackwater Falls State Park

Blackwater Falls State Park and its famous five-story waterfall make for a lovely getaway year round. Warm weather is a popular time for hiking, fishing and enjoying the natural beauty of the Tucker County area. Winter and snow provide opportunity for cross-country skiing and sledding. The park’s lodge, with its sweeping views of the densely forested Blackwater canyon, is equipped with a full-service restaurant, conference center, game room and indoor swimming pool. Rental cabins also are available. Visit www.blackwaterfalls.com or call (304) 259-5216.

West Virginia’s state park system has more than 50 parks and forests. Ten parks offer lodges and many parks are some of West Virginia’s most scenic attractions. State-operated facilities do not charge entrance fees. There are fees for some facility use such as aerial tramways and train rides. Many tour destinations offer group pricing; groups stopping for meals or overnight accommodations should call the individual parks to make arrangements with the group services staff member. For more information, visit www.wvstateparks.com.

Caption: Historic Prickett’s Fort State Park is one of many beautiful West Virginia State Parks ready to welcome group tours.