3 West Virginia Nature Centers That Make Excellent Family Day Trip Destinations
By Clarisa|Published August 24, 2022
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Clarisa
Author
Born and raised Kansan, Clarisa has lived in both tiny towns and cities during their time here in the Sunflower State. As a busy mother of one crazy kid, two cats, and two geckos, they write whenever there is spare time.
Finding a destination for a day trip with a group is always a challenge, but these family-friendly nature centers in West Virginia will make choosing a breeze. If you love the outdoors and want to spend more time in it and more time learning about it, this is the trip for you! Grab that planner and mark these nature centers down on your bucket list!
1. New River Gorge National Park and Preserve - Lansing, WV
The stunning Canyon Rim and Sandstone visitor centers make this park a two-for-one deal in terms of day trips. Two nature centers in the same park means you can get twice the fun and knowledge on your nature day.
New River Gorge National Park & Preserve, West Virginia, USA
Between the stunning trails around the park and these two educational visitor centers, the day can be filled with appreciation of the beautiful world around you. Grandview's main overlook is a diamond in the rough when it comes to picture-worthy scenery. Just look at that view!
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2. Cranberry Mountain Nature Center - Hillsboro, WV
Monongahela National Forest is a stunning source of adventures for any age, with hiking trails of various sizes and plenty of beautiful scenery to go around. The park holds various outdoor programs throughout the year, but outside of those, the Cranberry Mountain Nature Center is the place to be.
The nature center is a bit of extra fun and education on top of the stunning park. Information about local wildlife and the plants growing around you will give you something to look for on your adventures. Knowing what life to expect in the area turns a regular hike into a game where you spot different species for fun.
3. New River Birding & Nature Center - Fayetteville, WV
Last but not least, this birding and nature center is located out in the New River watershed. This stunning area is focused on the beauty of birds, and volunteers keep the area clean and ready for visitors.
New River Birding & Nature Center, 38.017170 -81.111438, Fayetteville, WV 25840, USA
The stunning birds around these parts are always a treat to look for, especially if you have a book of local birds and binoculars. The NRBNC is an outdoor classroom nature center that teaches visitors about the world around them. Whether you're in a family group or here for a school event, who doesn't love a bit of learning with their adventure?
Even if you’ve been to all of these nature centers, there’s still more to do around here. Have you gone through all seven of these easy hikes around West Virginia? Even in a small place like this, it will take plenty of adventures to explore it to the fullest of your ability.
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