Babcock State Park facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Babcock State Park |
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IUCN Category III (Natural Monument)
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Glade Creek Grist Mill
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 Babcock State Park
Location in West Virginia
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| Location | Fayette, West Virginia, United States |
| Area | 4,127 acres (16.70 km2) |
| Elevation | 2,510 ft (770 m) |
| Established | October 11, 1934 |
Babcock State Park is a super cool place to visit in West Virginia! It's a state park that covers about 4,127 acres of beautiful woods. You can find it along the New River Gorge in Fayette County. The park is only about 20 miles from the famous New River Gorge Bridge.
One of the most famous spots in the park is the Glade Creek Grist Mill. This mill is often photographed because it's so pretty! It was built in 1976. The mill was made using parts from three other old grist mills in West Virginia. It looks just like the original Cooper's Mill that used to be in the area. The park calls it a "living, working monument" to the many mills that once operated across the state. You can even buy corn meal and buckwheat flour made right there!
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Fun Things to Do at Babcock State Park
Babcock State Park offers lots of activities for families and friends. There are many ways to enjoy the outdoors and learn about nature.
Where to Stay and Play
If you want to stay overnight, the park has 28 cozy cabins. There are also 52 campsites where you can pitch a tent or park an RV. For those who love sports, the park has courts for basketball, tennis, and volleyball. You can also play horseshoes!
Outdoor Adventures and Nature
The park has more than 20 miles of hiking trails. These trails let you explore the beautiful forests and see amazing views. You can also visit Boley Lake, which is about 19 acres big. At the lake, you can rent paddleboats, rowboats, or canoes. Fishing is popular in the lake and streams. The park also offers special hikes and presentations led by naturalists. These experts teach you about the plants and animals in the park.
Other Cool Features
Don't forget to check out the gift shop for souvenirs. There are also picnic shelters where you can enjoy a meal outdoors. You'll find several scenic overlooks that offer breathtaking views of the gorge and surrounding nature.
Making the Park Welcoming for Everyone
Babcock State Park works hard to make sure everyone can enjoy its beauty. Experts from West Virginia University checked the park's accessibility for people with disabilities. They found that the campground, picnic shelters, and restrooms are easy to use. Ramps and doorways to public buildings are also accessible. The park even has special fishing spots and two cabins designed for easy access. A few years ago, in 2005, they noted some small things to improve, like signs in parking lots and slippery stairs.
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