At Opossum Creek Retreat we are blessed with a location that allows us to provide maximum privacy and seclusion with a minimum of impact. Part of the reason we can offer this is the Eastern Hemlock. This ever green tree, with its thick layers of low hanging branches, provides a visual break between the cabins. […]
Our Area
Why 250,000 Boy Scouts are Coming to The New River Gorge And You Should Too (Just Not at the Same Time!)
The beauty of this area is all it takes to understand why the Boy Scouts of America chose to locate their newest camp here in the New River Gorge. Access to so many awesome outdoor activities is what makes it even more special. The Summit Bechtel Reserve is the 4th High Adventure Base Camp […]
An Often Missed Treasure: Kanawha Falls
Have you been whitewater rafting in West Virginia? More than 100,000 people a year visit this area, seeking adventure to soothe their inner-adrenalin junkie or as a release from the daily grind. As wild and chaotic as many sections of New River and Gauley River are, the place where they come together is much more […]
What does the river mean to you?
Being on, and around, a body of water has an interesting effect on people. For some, it becomes an extension of self. Our friend Ashley, a local and longtime boatman, shares his story. It’s A Part of Me The New River is as much a part of me as is my arm or leg. I […]
West Virginia Ghost Towns
West Virginia is spotted with ghost towns, not of the haunted variety, but deserted. Coal and timber boom towns along railways, river shores and forgotten timber roads have left fragmented structures that outlived the resources around which the towns sprung up. Boom and Bust are an understood part of the industries even today, some Appalachian […]
Ramps: Have You Tried the Wild Leek?
By: Rachel Davis From the moist, shady floors of Appalachian forests in late March and early April you can find a spring delicacy pushing through the fallen leaves with smooth, broad, light green leaves often with deep purple or burgundy tints on the lower stem, and a scallion-like stalk and bulb rooted tightly just beneath […]
The Robin Snow
Special Guest Post By: Rachel Davis Around here crocuses and daffodils are among the first spring flowers to emerge and bloom. Neither is native to this land, but both were favorites of the Appalachian residents of long ago including my Grandmother who as a young woman planted them here in her yard. I am sure […]
It’s Valentine’s Day Which Makes it Couples Season
It’s couples season. For everyone. Which, naturally, means spring is near. Bear with me, this will seem a bit of a stretch. Frankly, it is. You see, the critters know that spring is near. Some of them, like the red shouldered hawk and the grey fox in my back yard are busy playing “the game”. […]
West Virginia. It’s Nearby with Plenty of “Firsts”
Ever watch Jeopardy and something comes up that you can answer? If you’re like me, you jump out of the chair and shout the question. Hey, it’s rare. And my wife says I need to get some excercise. Just in case West Virginia ever comes up on the show, we want you to be prepared. […]
