Cacapon State Park has a sandy swimming beach the kids like, a concession stand, a playground, hiking trails the kids can do, and a nature center with some regular programs on the weekends. Downtown Berkeley Springs has little springs/ canals the kids can wade in and catch minnows. For the adults, you can get a massage and soak in the hot springs right downtown- more of a rustic spa experience but affordable!

The state park also has a fun playground that is rather old school with a merry go round and teeter totters. My kids love that place. And yes the swimming beach is fun too, and they have paddle boats on the lake. Just don't paddle over the dam! The resort sometimes has a buffet, and I liked spaghetti and lasagna night.

The state park lake is fun. I like the ice creamery downtown, Earth Dogs bbq, and the free wading pools near the city pool.

Anonymous wrote:Are you staying at Capon Springs? I went as a child almost every summer with my extended family. I have so many fond memories of that place, especially the food! It was delicious!

Nope - a cabin near Berkeley Springs.

Are you staying at Capon Springs? I went as a child almost every summer with my extended family. I have so many fond memories of that place, especially the food! It was delicious!

I seem to remember a public pool in Berkeley Springs from a childhood trip. It was nice, as far as I remember.

Thanks PP - how far is Paw Paw? There is a July 4 festival on Saturday (first annual!) - sound fun?

Walking through the Paw Paw Tunnel is fun. Harpers Ferry isn't too far. We love Lot 12 in Berkeley Springs, but it's a fancy place, so only go if your kids are really well behaved, or you have a babysitter. Tari's in Berkeley Springs is more casual.

We're going this weekend. Any short but fun hiking trails? How is the lake? Favorite restaurants? And any tips related to July 4 weekend much appreciated. Thanks!