CHARLESTON, W.Va. –West Virginia Secretary of Tourism Chelsea Ruby said she expects summer travel to West Virginia to continue last year’s trend, especially in state parks.
“We’re seeing people want to escape big cities, they want to get outside, they want to see outdoor recreation, they want to see mountain towns, they want to see history and heritage, especially this year in the nation’s 250th birthday, we’ve got folks leaning into that more now than ever,” Ruby told MetroNews.
Last year, state parks brought in $40 million in revenue, which was higher than the previous year. State parks that saw the largest revenue increases included Watoga State Park, Little Beaver State Park, Blackwater Falls State Park, and Babcock State Park.
Ruby said they are already seeing reservations for state parks, as well as for other activities.
“We’re seeing reservations, not just at our state parks but I’m hearing it all over, I get calls all the time for folks asking for tickets for rail exploring in Clay County,” she said.
Great American Bungee Company also opened in Harpers Ferry, giving individuals the opportunity to bungee jump into a rock quarry.
She said they have many experiences available for visitors, but they are filling up quickly.
“We’ve got all kinds of stuff and I’m hearing that stuff is booking up, so if you want a summer vacation in West Virginia make sure, you’re planning ahead,” Ruby said.