Took a Saturday afternoon drive out to Plum Orchard Lake with the fam in our Jeep. It's about 1.5…read morehours from us -- a mix of interstate, toll roads, winding turns, and peaceful backroads that made the ride feel like part of the adventure. When we arrived, the lake did *not* disappoint -- calm water, gorgeous scenery, and just a relaxed, welcoming energy. We didn't even try to explore the whole place (it's huge). We stopped at the first dock we saw, hopped out with our gear, and got straight to fishing. Mealworms on the hook, lines in the water, and good vibes all around. We saw fish swimming past and had a few nibbles, but no actual catches this time. Still, the whole experience was a win. It wasn't crowded at all -- just a few groups scattered around, everyone spaced out enough that it still felt peaceful. No loud music, no chaos, just people enjoying nature. **Pro Tips:** * Bring your own bait, drinks, and plenty of snacks (trust me, you'll get hungry). * There's a port-o-potty nearby *or*, you know\... nature works in a pinch (ask the boys ). * Sunscreen is a must and a hat, perhaps. We're already planning a return trip -- maybe with kayaks or to check out another part of the lake. If you're looking for a quiet, scenic spot to fish, chill, or just unwind without a crowd, Plum Orchard is a solid pick.

I was in the area and on a lark decided to check out the lake. It is truly a hidden gem in these…read morelovely hills! The southern part of the lake had a large layer of lily pads and the water caught the fall colors of the hills perfectly. I wish I had a boat there so I could go out on the water, it was a perfectly tranquil day.

Elk Fork Lake is located out Gay Road off Route 33 from Ripley, WV. It's a beautiful lake that is…read moreman made for fishing and boating. Free to use!! Great parking area to enjoy the lake for fishing! There are a lot of trees in the water so no fash speed boats allowed in this lake, but trowling motors allowed and perfect for kayaks. There is no bathroom facilities and no picnic tables. No playground or even trash cans.

This is absolutely gorgeous lake and great place to fish, hike and kayak. There is plenty of…read moreparking areas along the lake edge and lot areas. The area is FREE to use. The lake is stocked by WV DNR. A Fishing license is required. There is plenty of parking near the Mill Creek where you can slso fish and put in your kayaks to go along the Mill Creek Water Trail No camping is allowed There are also marked hiking trails. No grills available and no picnic tables. There is a dock. You can put in row boats and kayak in lake but nothing with a motor.

Tony, Kayla, Deacon & I took a Sunday drive up river on this gorgeous day to check out some of the…read morewaterfalls. We stopped at Kanawha Falls. I remember when there was a really nice swimming Beach and camping available here! Things have really changed alot! Deacon enjoyed seeing the few ducks swimming by the reeds.

Great service for me as part time resident at my Gauley Bridge home…read more Like being able to turn on water when visiting my home there and able to turn off the supply when preparing to leave the home and returning to KY home.

Great walking trail. Scenic look outs. Beautiful waterfalls and old mill with a tour- Grist Mill…read more Small shop with souvenirs and restrooms.

Did a quick stopover on the way to Hawk's Nest SP, and wow, this place is beautiful! One of the…read moremost frequently visited state parks in WV and it's easy to see why! The grist mill is absolutely iconic, sitting atop a picturesque waterfall. The park has a mountain lake for water activities, plenty of trails, and even cabins for longer stays! There's an Almost Heaven swing right by the mill and visitor's center, and the CCC stonework is stunning. The New River Gorge bridge is about 20-30 minutes away depending on how well you drive on mountain roads, and there's plenty to do in the area for a fun weekend or even longer! I will definitely be back myself!