5/14/2010
North Bend State Park, in Ritchie County, offers the latest package in the West Virginia State Parks’ History Traveler series.
“The new Frontier Package, with Prickett’s Fort State Park, is another great way to learn about history that has been preserved within our state parks system,” according to Kristi Steed, group coordinator. “People have appreciated the affordability and opportunity to learn about West Virginia and its history as part our Voyage Package with Blennerhassett Island. Prickett’s Fort was an obvious choice for another partner in our History Traveler Packages.” North Bend has offered a Voyage Package that includes overnight at North Bend and a day trip to Blennerhassett Island for the past several years. Steed notes that transportation to Fairmont or Parkersburg is not included in the package details.
North Bend State Park is located near Cairo and Harrisville, W.Va., approximately 15 minutes from U.S. Route 50. Prickett’s Fort is located at exit 139 on I-79 north of Fairmont. For more information about these state parks, other packages or historic points of interest, visit www.wvstateparks.com/history.htm
About History Traveler – “Frontier”
The Frontier Package is available from May 17 – Oct. 31, 2010 and the focus is one of West Virginia's most unique living history museums, Prickett’s Fort. The opportunity to relive the pioneering spirit of Capt. Jacob Prickett and his family is made possible by Pricketts Fort Foundation as they incorporate a living history style of interpretation to preserve, document and exhibit the past. Prickett’s Fort State Park features an 18th century recreation of the original Prickett’s Fort which provided a place of refuge from Indian attack. In addition, guests enjoy visiting the original 19th century Job Prickett House, Prickett Cemetery, Visitor Center and Museum Gift Shop. Prickett’s Fort is open seven days a week through Labor Day. After Labor Day through October, the complex is open Wednesday through Sunday, Monday - Saturday 10 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. and Sunday noon - 4:30 p.m.
The package includes one-night lodging at North Bend Lodge, hearty box lunches for two, and tickets for two to Prickett’s Fort and the Job Prickett House. Taxes are included in the $99 package priced for two, and not per person. Prickett’s Fort State Park is an hour and 30 minute drive from North Bend and is located near Fairmont, W.Va. Reservations are required in advance. In summer season, North Bend requires a two-night rental on weekends. However, guests opting to stay consecutive nights receive a 20 percent discount off the room rate for each additional night after the first night. For a true history vacation, booking the Voyage and Frontier packages back to back is encouraged.
For additional information about North Bend State Park, call 304-643-2931 or visit www.northbendsp.com. For information about Prickett’s Fort State Park, visit www.prickettsfortstatepark.com, or call 304-363-3030 for hours of operation.
Contact Information
Sissie Summers
304-558-2764
sissie.a.summers@wv.gov