Morgan County, West Virginia
Cacapon Resort State Park
A Robert Trent Jones golf course, a sandy lake beach, and 30 miles of trails across Cacapon Mountain — all within minutes of the warm mineral springs of Berkeley Springs.
Quick Info
- County / Location
- Morgan County, near Berkeley Springs, WV
- Best For
- Golf, lake swimming, mountain views, cabins, history
- Best Time to Visit
- May–October for golf and lake; October for foliage
- Time Needed
- A full day; a weekend to golf, hike and soak
- Fees
- Day use free; fees for golf, lodging, camping and beach
- Notable Amenities
- Golf course, lodge, restaurant, cabins, campground, lake beach
Overview
Cacapon Resort State Park covers more than 6,000 acres on the slopes of Cacapon Mountain in West Virginia's eastern panhandle. The mountain is the highest point in the state's eastern ridge, and the park's ridges look out over three states — West Virginia, Virginia, and Maryland — and the Potomac River valley.
The park was largely built by the Civilian Conservation Corps in the 1930s, then expanded in the 1970s with a Robert Trent Jones Sr.–designed championship golf course that is regularly ranked among the best public courses in West Virginia.
Cacapon is one of the state's true resort parks: you can golf in the morning, swim at the lake in the afternoon, and finish with a soak at Berkeley Springs, just a short drive north.
Things to Do
- •Play 18 holes on the mountain golf course.
- •Swim and sun at the Cacapon Lake beach in summer.
- •Hike to ridge viewpoints overlooking the Potomac Valley.
- •Rent pedal boats or a canoe on Cacapon Lake.
- •Visit the nature center and CCC-era historic structures.
- •Drive to Berkeley Springs for its famous warm mineral baths.
Hiking Trails
The park maintains roughly 30 miles of trails, from brief lakeside strolls to a long climb to the mountaintop.
Cacapon Mountain Trail — the signature route, gaining elevation to the ridge and its panoramic three-state views.
Prospect Rock Trail — a short, steep walk to a cliff edge with a wide view of the Potomac River valley.
Ziler Loop Trail — a moderate loop popular for spring wildflowers and fall color.
Ridge Trail — a long, rolling ramble along the spine of Cacapon Mountain.
Lake Trail — an easy path around Cacapon Lake, good for families.
Lodge, Cabins & Camping
The Cacapon Lodge is a modern hotel-style facility with about 48 rooms, a restaurant, lounge, indoor pool, fitness room, and conference space. Rooms at the rear face the golf course and mountains.
Roughly 17 cabins range from efficient one-bedrooms to larger family cabins, most with kitchens and fireplaces. The campground has sites for tents and RVs with hookups, plus bathhouses and a camp store.
Fishing & Swimming
Cacapon Lake is stocked with trout in cooler months and holds panfish and bass in summer. It is a quiet, accessible place to fish from shore or a small non-motorized boat. A West Virginia fishing license is required.
The lake also has a designated swimming beach with lifeguards during the summer season, plus pedal boat and canoe rentals — a major draw for families.
Best Time to Visit & Directions
Late spring through early fall is best for golf, swimming, and boating. Autumn brings excellent hiking weather and color across the Potomac highlands. Winter is quiet but still lovely for ridge walks.
From Berkeley Springs, take WV-9 west for about 5 miles to the park entrance. The park is roughly 2 hours from Washington, D.C., and about 1 hour 45 minutes from Baltimore.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a tee time?+
Reservations are strongly recommended on weekends and holidays. Call the pro shop ahead to secure a slot.
Is the lake beach free?+
There is a modest day-use fee for the swimming beach during the summer season, with lifeguards on duty.
How long is the Cacapon Mountain Trail?+
It varies by route, but the climb to the ridge is a multi-mile outing with significant elevation gain. Carry water and allow half a day.
Are there restaurants nearby?+
Yes. The lodge has its own restaurant, and Berkeley Springs offers a good selection of cafes and dining a short drive away.
Is the park good for kids?+
Very. Between the lake beach, boat rentals, easy lake trail, and nature programs, there is plenty to keep younger visitors busy.
About Discover WV Today
Discover WV Today is an independent guide to West Virginia's state parks, mountain towns, trails, and waterfalls. We publish practical, first-hand trip planning for the Mountain State. Learn more about us.