A busy weekend of fun at West Virginia State Parks September 21-23

            SOUTH CHARLESTON, W.Va. – With a nip of fall in the air and temperatures moderating, West Virginia’s state parks offer a wide variety of events the weekend of September 21-23, 2012. 

            “For example, Nature Wonder Weekend, in its 45th year at North Bend State Park, is like a favorite television show– you never tire of reruns and always discover something new with each episode,” said West Virginia State Parks Programming Coordinator Sissie Summers. “There are other weekend events scheduled that appeal to different interests such as trains, birding, photography, hunting and fishing.  September is a month where programmers at parks try new ideas as well as continue with tradition. The goal is to encourage people to visit parks, enjoy fall weather and find some very good entertainment.”

Weekend events at West Virginia state parks, September 21-23, include:

September 21-23
5th Annual Birding Festival - Cacapon Resort State Park

            The Potomac Valley Audubon Society Presents a weekend full of activities for the bird enthusiast. Many events and activities are planned for the weekend throughout the Berkeley Springs Area as well as Cacapon State Park. Cacapon posts weekend activities on the park website at www.cacaponresort.com. Contact: Renee Fincham, 304-258-1022 ext. 5209

September 21
A Quiet Celebration!  Kanawha State Forest Birthday  - Kanawha State Forest

            Take 1/2 hour today, visit the forest and take a walk. Be it trail, roadside or around the parking lot, the invitation is to get outdoors and enjoy a 1/2 hour of movement! Individuals walking a 1/2 an hour (or more) may stop by the forest office to register and receive a commemorative 75th anniversary pin. The office will be open from 8 a.m. until 8 p.m. to allow an opportunity for anyone to come walk prior to or after work or during the day. There is no designated trail or pace - just come walk and enjoy the forest. Walking time is on the honor system. There is no charge to participate. Contact: Ken Long, 304-558-3500

September 21-23
Autumn Knitters Weekend Getaway - Tygart Lake State Park

            Autumn Knitters Weekend Getaway is a must for anyone who enjoys the company of others and knitting. Sandra Tolin of Yarn and Company in Elkins is the instructor for a weekend adventure in knitting. Contact: Stephanie Bailey, 304-265-6144

Sept 21-23
Ballroom Dancing Weekend - Stonewall Resort State Park

            A weekend devoted to dancing and learning how to “Dance like the Stars.” All ability levels are welcome.  Classes include Salsa Dance, Nightclub Two Step Lessons, and West Coast Swing.  There is Ballroom and Latin Dance with West Virginia Dance, Inc. as the Deejay on both Friday and Saturday nights. Call for reservations and information. Contact: Stonewall Resort, 304-269-7400

September 21
End of Summer Aloha! - Cacapon Resort State Park

            Come enjoy dinner and music by Michael Keale as he shares his natural gift of aloha with you. As a Hawaii native, his songs and warm friendly smile will touch your heart. Make your dinner reservations and see for yourself the true meaning of living aloha! Reservations: 304-258-1022 x4157

September 21-23
Fall Photography Workshop - Twin Falls Resort State Park

            The workshop focuses on basic and intermediate photography techniques, with indoor and outdoor sessions. There are a variety of packages to choose from but reservations are required. Instructors are Steve Shaluta and Steve Rotsch. Works.op weekend package includes two nights at Twin Falls lodge, full workshop, Saturday and Sunday lunch, and refreshments: $176 per person, double occupancy. Workshop only, no overnight: $70. Advance registration required. Contact: Twin Falls, 304-294-4000

September 21 - 23
Nature Wonder Weekend - North Bend State Park

            Experience the bounty of wild foods while celebrating the wonder of nature at North Bend State Park. Enjoy a full weekend of hikes, programs, and a wild foods banquet.  This year’s featured speaker is author Sam Thayer. Robbie Vance of Mingo Junction, Ohio, and Ron Nornhold of Troxelville, Pennsylvania, are also special guests and presenters. Registration and additional weekend information are posted at www.northbendsp.com, Events.  This is Nature Wonder Weekend’s 45th year and continues a Euell Gibbons experiences with little-used free foods from the land, such as black walnuts, mountain-tea berries, pawpaws and wild fox grapes. Contact: Emily Fleming, 304-558-2754

September 22
Bluegrass Bar-B-Que at Whittaker Station - Cass Scenic Railroad State Park

            An evening train ride to Whittaker Station with bluegrass music and self-serve barbeque buffet dinner is mountain fun. Train departs at 5:15 p.m.  An optional locomotive shop tour or Cass Showcase presentation; optional self-guided tour of Camp Whittaker, a recreated logging camp is part of this special evening package. Train ride, music and dinner cost is $36 Adult; Children 5-12, $26; Children under age 5, $16. Reservations are required. Contact: Cass Scenic Railroad, 304-456-4300

September 22
Historic Arts Workshop: Using Natural Dyes - Prickett's Fort State Park Fort

            Learn techniques for silk, cotton, linen and wool. Ideal for embroiderers, rug hookers and/or hand spinners from 9 am to 12 noon. Judy Wilson is the instructor. Contact: Greg Bray, 304-363-3030

September 22-23
West Virginia’s Celebration of National Hunting and Fishing Days - Stonewall Resort State Park

            More than 100 vendors and exhibits, archery, shotgun and rifle shooting, blackpowder shooting, youth sports, sporting dogs, care and cooking of fish and game, wild food tasting, trophy buck display, trophy fish display, non-game exhibits. National Hunting and Fishing Days is a must-see event for those interested in hunting, fishing and outdoor sports.  For a complete schedule visit: www.wvdnr.gov, Special Opportunities, National Hunting and Fishing Celebration. There is a link to a complete schedule posted. Contact: Krista Snodgrass, 304-558-2771

September 22
“Wings of Wonder – Birds of Prey” - Cacapon Resort State Park

            Three River Avian Center (www.tracwv.org) will present a program and have live bird of prey to view. This is an educational evening program learning about hawks, owls, eagles and other raptors at 7:00 p.m. and is open to the public without charge.
Contact: Renee Fincham, 304-258-1022