Whether you were born and raised in Taylor County, or happen to have found your way to West Virginia for one reason or another, the great outdoors is something we are all familiar with in one way or another.

The breathtaking beauty, the abundant natural resources, and picturesque places are something we often take for granted.

Within a relatively short drive, or daylong road trip, one can find countless photo opportunities that encompass the essence of nature. We have grown accustomed to rolling hills, lush terrain so vibrant in various shades of green it plays tricks on the eyes, intricate wildflowers, beautiful refreshing waters of lakes, rivers, and streams that beckon and entice us on hot, humid days.

The wildlife that surrounds us from small critters, to larger game animals, and colorful birds seem to exist in complete harmony. The relaxing and tranquil outdoors is virtually in our backyards so to speak.

If you choose to leave your backyard, West Virginia offers amazing state parks and facilities at little or no cost to the visitors. While you may choose to visit another vacation destination, or travel to another state, consider staying close to home and discover Wild and Wonderful West Virginia.

For those in Taylor County, Tygart Lake State Park may be a place that you frequented growing up, or visit very little, but the park is something quit remarkable. For those that have had the privileges of traveling around the United States or abroad, the beauty surrounding Tygart Lake is easy to identify and worth visiting.

Tygart Lake State Park was founded back in 1945, and is one of 35 state parks in West Virginia.

Tygart Lake is approximately 2,000-acres, and allows visitors easy access to activities such as boating, fishing, swimming, and other recreation.

In addition, the park features well-kept and maintained shorelines, cabins, campgrounds, lodge, restaurant, gift shop, day use and picnic areas.

The park provides a setting utilized for a variety of events to include: seminars, retreats, receptions, birthdays, reunions, picnics and many other activities.

The park also features endless learning and education opportunities, for people of all ages.

The park naturalist organizes programs, activities and events that are free and open to the public. The park and staff work diligently and effectively towards maintaining the integrity of the park and its resources.

In addition, the Tygart Lake State Park Foundation (TLSPF) was chartered and organized early in 1999. The TLSPF purpose is “To aid, strengthen, enhance and support in appropriate ways the services of Tygart Lake State Park.”

In addition, the TLSPF efforts also include: conserving the integrity of the park and preserving, and protecting the vital and natural resources. The TLSPF goals “Are to promote and improve the facilities, augment current offerings, provide additional attractions and assist park personnel and visitors in the future development of Tygart Lake State Park.”

The TLSPF has put forth great efforts to maintain, improve, add to the park environment and appeal to visitors. The TLSPF has made possible a new parking lot, furnishing gravel and landscaping the area.

Another addition included, a new picnic shelter that can accommodate up to 35 people, provide cover from rain, or shade in the summer.

A new playground was placed at the lodge for easy entertaining of children, along with facilitating and implementing memorial concrete benches along the retaining wall at the marina.

The TLSPF has also purchased a power washer for maintenance, and obtained donations of tools and toolbox for the maintenance department.

The TLSPF also organizes park activities and events throughout the year. The events are geared for people of all ages and all activity levels.

The annual Spring Hop will mark the opening of the park for the season, and will take place April 16-18, 2010.

The weekend long event will feature a silent auction, art and craft show, photo and quilt exhibit, and Country Cloggers. The dance will take place on Saturday, April 17, 2010 and feature live music.

The TLSPF hosts a spring and fall trail ride and cookout for individuals and families. This event offers visitors the opportunity to ride horse back through the park, experience the beauty of the park up close and off the beaten trail, and provides shoreline not accessible by vehicle.

The TLSPF organizes a free fishing day derby for children and family members. This is designed to encourage families to get outdoors, enjoy the sport of fishing, and spend quality time together.

The TLSPF also invites families and visitors to music in the park. This event is held once a month and is free to the public.

The autumn season ushers in exciting activities such as the Appalachian Fall Fest weekend, which showcases art and crafts from across the state, live music, hayrides, pumpkin carving contest, and much more.

In addition, the TLSPF partners with the Grafton Volunteer Fire Department to sponsor a haunted hayride designed and geared toward the entertainment of children. This event features a family type atmosphere, with family oriented and appropriate activities.

This 2009 haunted hayride turned out to be an exciting event for families, generated positive feedback, and was enjoyed by all ages.

Many families commended the TLSPF and Grafton Fire Department for organizing the haunted hayride, and the fun that was made possible, for minimal charge of a $1.00 per ride.

The TLSPF also featured a Halloween dance and party, with plenty of seasonal activities and games galore.

The TLSPF takes great pride in organizing, “Events with the whole family in mind. We strive to provide a place where parents and their children can do things as a family.”

The foundation invites individuals and families to visit the park, participate in the events, activities, and entertainment throughout the year, at little or no cost.

The TLSPF is involved in numerous projects, planning and enhancing established events, raising public awareness of the opportunities at the park, and continues to work on obtaining grants and fundraising efforts.

Anyone interested in obtaining information about the TLSPF, schedule of events, wish to find out more about memorial benches, or make a donation may do so by visiting the web site at www.tlspf.org or by calling Sue Coole at 302-265-2332.