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Readers’ Choice Reunions and Retreats

Our readers tell us the best places in West Virginia to celebrate National Family Reunion Month in July.

Written by Paige Lavender and Cameron Solley

(page 1 of 2)

July is National Family Reunion Month, and thousands of people from around the country travel to West Virginia every year to rekindle relationships, indulge in delicious food, take part in recreational activities, and relax away from the stresses of the workweek. From full-service resorts to intimate campgrounds, this state is full of gathering spots for small and large families alike. See where our readers get together with relatives and friends.

The Resort at Glade Springs

The Resort at Glade Springs offers a variety of pre-planned activities for those who want lots of fun with little hassle. During the day, kids can participate in Camp Glade while adults have fun outdoors with horseback riding, whitewater rafting, hiking, biking, and more. At night, families can come together to share a meal, with the resort offering everything from cookouts to elegant dining at Glade’s Grill. Glade Springs offers a variety of overnight accommodations for large family groups, including hotel rooms and private lodges. 866.671.5892.

Coonskin Park

Located just 10 minutes from the capital city, Coonskin Park offers over a thousand acres of space for hiking, biking, golf, swimming, tennis, and more. Picnic shelters, some of which include grills, electricity, water, and play equipment, can be rented from the park at an affordable price. 304.341.8000.

 

“Our family has enjoyed Coonskin Park in Charleston for many years. They have so many wonderful shelters for small or large reunions. We always rent the largest, which has a kitchen, playground area, and is close to the swimming pool, hiking trails, and golf course. I wouldn’t think of having it anywhere else,” says Debbie Pauley of Elkview.

Lost River State Park

For families looking to bond in the outdoors, Lost River State Park is the perfect location. The park offers activities like hiking, swimming, and horseback riding near popular natural landmarks such as Seneca Rocks, Dolly Sods, and Spruce Knob. Even family members who aren’t totally in tune with nature can join in—the park offers free wireless internet and rents out cabins, cottages, and bungalows. 304.897.5372; www.lostriversp.com.

Graceland Inn

Did you know?
The largest family reunion on record took place in Flat Top, when the Lilly family brought in 2,585 people. The family’s 80th annual reunion took place in August 2009 and was entered into the Guinness World Record’s database shortly after.

A national historic landmark, Graceland Inn provides a beautiful background for any family reunion. The restored Victorian mansion is a great location for smaller family gatherings, with plenty of guestrooms that have their own private baths. Located in Elkins, the inn is close to the Monongahela National Forest, several golf courses, and Timberline and Canaan Valley ski resorts. 304.637.1600; www.gracelandinn.com.

Snowshoe Mountain Ski Resort

Snowshoe, located in Pocahontas County, is known as one of the East Coast’s best ski resorts, but it is also a beacon of outdoor activities, including biking, fly fishing, hiking, and of course, skiing. Snowshoe is located near Cass Scenic Railroad, the National Radio Astronomy Observatory at Green Bank, and Seneca Rocks, making plenty of state landmarks accessible to families during a reunion weekend. 877.536.9757; www.snowshoemtn.com.

“Snowshoe is wonderful for a family reunion. There’s plenty of lodging for small to large families along with gathering places, restaurants, and entertainment. It’s a terrific location to use as a hub to explore the entire county and surrounding area,” says Ruth LeDonne of Durbin.

Watoga State Park

This Pocahontas County park, located close to Snowshoe Mountain Ski Resort and the Greenbrier River Trail, is popular for families who want a mix of land and water. Swimming, fishing, and boating, and hiking are recreational options. Having a hard time gathering up the whole family in the middle of summer?  Don’t sweat it—Watoga’s cabins can be rented year round. 304.799.4087; www.watoga.com.

“I love Pocahontas County!” says Melissa Aguilar of Bluewell. “Stay at Watoga State Park and then visit all of the surrounding areas, like BearTown State Park, Droop Mountain, and Cranberry Glades. It doesn’t get any better!”

 

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