4/10/2008
Families and friends looking for a spring getaway need look no further than Tygart Lake State Park in Taylor County as facilities re-open for spring and vacation season. Spring Hop signals the cabins, lodge, campground and park facilities are open for fun in 2008.
"It's a weekend of activities, events, good food, fellowship and music," says Brennon O'Sullivan, Assistant Superintendent. "The Tygart Lake State Park Foundation spearheads the weekend to help us welcome guests back to Tygart to enjoy the outdoors and state park facilities. All sales and proceeds other than lodging and food service go toward the foundation and their support of this Taylor County travel destination.
Events include a silent auction featuring artwork, photographs and other items. A Photography Show and Contest will be on display at the park's lodge. Wine and cheese tasting with Kirkwood Winery and West-Whitehill Winery is scheduled April 11 and 12. Craft exhibits and sales from more than 30 art and craftsmen and women will be showcased on Saturday.
Food is a Spring Hop feature. A special dinner menu Friday from 5 - 8 p.m. features Bar-B-Q ribs and more. Saturday starts the day with a Pancake Feast from 8 - 10 a.m., and a Pasta Brunch is featured on Sunday from 11 a.m. - 3 p.m. Tygart's restaurant is located at the park's lodge and is a full-service down-home eatery. Known for affordable pricing, good food and pleasant service, the restaurant is a favorite for local residents.
Music includes a Friday night dance to the music of Steppin' Stones from 8 - 10 p.m. at the park's lodge lobby. The dance is open to the public. There is no admission fee and it is an alcohol-free activity. Sunday promises live-music throughout the day at Tygart Lodge.
The Spring Hop two-night weekend package is affordable if you're looking for more than a day visit. For $215 per couple, the getaway includes two nights at Tygart Lodge, Friday dinner, Pancake feast and Sunday Pasta Brunch, and gratuities.
"It's a weekend designed with things to do at the park, but not so overwhelming that it wears a visitor out," states O'Sullivan. "This park has family-feeling about it. When you get here, you just naturally slow down and relax from the daily grind. Spring Hop is our way of thanking area residents and visitors for including Tygart Lake State Park as a "˜special place to go'. "
Opening this weekend are the park's 11-vacation cabins, 20-room lodge, restaurant and 40-campsites. The lodge has free wireless service. The two picnic shelters and meeting facilities at Tygart are popular for reunions. The 1,750 acre lake is a focal point for fisherman and boaters alike. O'Sullivan says anglers are finding small- and largemouth bass are hitting well this spring. "Trout fishermen are always pleased with the tailwater fishing on Tygart." Tygart is also known for walleye and crappie fishing. Tygart's Marina operation is gearing up for the season as well. Tygart Dam, operated by the Army Corps of Engineers is a short drive from the state park and a "must visit" when at Tygart Lake.
Tygart Lake is located near Grafton off of I-79 in north central West Virginia. Nearby state facilities include Valley Falls and Prickett's Fort state parks. In addition to Tygart Lakes' re-opening, seasonal cabin rentals at all West Virginia state parks are open for getaway and vacation rental. Mid-week discounts and packages are online at www.wvstateparks.com.
For more information about Spring Hop Weekend, call Tygart Lake at (304) 265-6144 or go online, www.tygartlake.com.
Contact Information
Brennon O'Sullivan
(304) 265-6144
brennonosullivan@wvdnr.gov