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Exploring near Thomas, West Virginia, a friendly local woman in a leopard bodysuit approached Audrey with a smile and said, “Girl, you look like Backwoods Barbie.”

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Backwoods Barbie is a lifestyle brand rooted in a love for the outdoors, small-town discovery, and the beauty found in unexpected places. We’re hikers, bikers, travelers, and explorers of nature—drawn to winding trails, quiet forests, and the hidden gems tucked away in Appalachian towns and beyond.

At the heart of Backwoods Barbie is a shared passion for experiencing Mother Nature in all her forms. From mountain overlooks and backroad adventures to local shops, cabins, and off-the-map destinations, we seek out the kind of places that feel real, grounded, and unforgettable.

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Our perspective is shaped by two creative forces. Audrey, a trained interior designer with a refined eye for home goods, furniture, and thoughtful design, brings an appreciation for spaces that feel intentional, warm, and beautifully lived in. Asa, an artist at heart, is constantly searching for the unexpected—local makers, creative expression, and cultural experiences that give each place its own soul.

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Together, we explore Appalachia and beyond, blending design, art, and outdoor living into a shared lens of discovery. Backwoods Barbie is about more than travel—it’s about finding meaning in small towns, inspiration in nature, and creativity in everyday experiences, then sharing those discoveries with others who love the world in the same way.

A Guide to Staying at Cacapon Resort State Park, WV: Cabins, Trails, Stargazing & Nearby Berkeley Springs Tips

Cacapon Resort State Park (near Great Cacapon in Morgan County, West Virginia) is one of those places that surprises people the first time they visit. It feels remote, quiet, and deeply connected to the Appalachian landscape—but still offers the comfort of lodge amenities, modern cabins, and easy access to Berkeley Springs just a short drive away.

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If you’re planning a trip here, especially for the cabins, there are a few things worth knowing ahead of time that can genuinely improve your stay.

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Cabin Rentals: Choose Privacy Over Proximity

One of the biggest decisions you’ll make is where to stay in the park.

The cabins farther away from the main lodge tend to offer:

  • More privacy

  • Better views of the surrounding forest and hills

  • A quieter, more “in nature” experience

  • Easier access to trailheads without lodge traffic

While staying near the lodge gives you convenience, the more remote cabins really deliver the Appalachian experience people come here for.

Even though you're farther out, you're still not far from everything—including Berkeley Springs.

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Lodge Amenities Still Available to Cabin Guests

Even if you rent a cabin, you still have access to many lodge amenities, including:

  • Fitness center / exercise facilities

  • Indoor pool

  • Dining and lodge services

  • Golf course access nearby

So you get the best of both worlds: privacy in the woods plus resort-style conveniences when you want them.

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Hiking: Beautiful Views, But Know the Terrain

Cacapon’s trail system is one of its biggest highlights. Expect:

  • Ridge views overlooking the surrounding mountains

  • Forested paths with seasonal wildlife

  • Quiet, less crowded trails compared to more commercial parks

But be aware—the Appalachian terrain can be deceptive.

Some trails are moderate and relaxing, while others can become unexpectedly steep and intense, especially if you’re not used to elevation changes. Good footwear and water are essential, even on shorter hikes.

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Stargazing: Quiet Skies, Minimal Light Pollution

Cacapon Resort State Park is not an officially certified International Dark Sky Park, but it still offers excellent stargazing conditions due to its remote location in West Virginia’s Eastern Panhandle.

On clear nights you can often see:

  • Dense star fields

  • The Milky Way (depending on season and conditions)

  • Very low light pollution compared to nearby towns

For best results, step away from lodge lighting and head toward more remote cabin areas or open clearings.

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Cabin Tips: Firewood, Kitchens & Comfort

Most cabins come with full kitchens, which makes it easy to self-cater your stay.

A few practical tips:

  • Ask the rental representative if firewood can be delivered or included

  • If not, you can often find cheaper wood in Berkeley Springs at local gas stations and small markets (usually more affordable than chains)

  • Bring basics for cooking so you can enjoy meals at your cabin instead of relying on lodge dining

There’s something special about cooking your own food, lighting a fire, and settling into the quiet of the woods at night.

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Fishing Note: Affordable Day Pass Option

If you’re planning to fish and are out of state, you can often add a short-term fishing license option for around $3 per day (verify current rates before your trip).

It’s an easy, low-cost way to enjoy the lake and streams without committing to a full license.

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Nearby Berkeley Springs: Food, Supplies & Local Stops

Just a short drive from the park, Berkeley Springs is a charming town worth exploring for:

  • Local food

  • Small shops

  • Coffee and provisions

  • Art galleries and historic charm
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Creekside Provisions
A great local shop for:

  • Fresh provisions

  • Specialty goods

  • Snacks and essentials for cabin stays

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Dining in Berkeley Springs

You’ll find some excellent dining options in town ranging from casual to upscale. But here’s the honest travel tip:

If you’re staying in a cabin, it’s often better to:

  • Stock up on groceries

  • Grill or cook at your cabin

  • Enjoy the outdoor setting instead of rushing meals

That’s where the experience really shines—food, firelight, and the mountain air.

 

IMPORTANT: How to Actually Book Your Cabin

This is one of the most important tips for your entire trip:

Do NOT rely on the state park website alone. It is often outdated, limited, and not the most reliable way to secure a cabin reservation.

Also, do NOT book through the lodge.

Instead, the best way to secure a cabin is to:
Call the West Virginia State Parks reservation system directly

That is the most reliable way to confirm availability, ask questions about cabin locations, and ensure your booking is correct.

If you want the best cabin experience (especially more remote options), speaking directly with the reservation staff is far more effective than trying to navigate the website.

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Final Thoughts

Cacapon Resort State Park is one of West Virginia’s most underrated outdoor destinations. It’s not about luxury in the traditional sense—it’s about space, quiet, and access to nature.

If you choose the right cabin, prepare a little in advance, and slow the pace down, you’ll get a stay that feels both peaceful and deeply connected to the Appalachian landscape.

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Light a fire, step outside at night, and just look up.

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West Virginia State Parks Reservations (Cabins)


Call the WV State Parks reservation line directly to book cabins. Do not rely on the website alone and do not book through the lodge.

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Berkeley Springs State Park (Hot Springs)

Historic mineral spa town with private bathhouse soaking rooms (reservations recommended).

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Creekside Provisions (Berkeley Springs)

Best local stop for:

  • Cabin groceries

  • Snacks & drinks

  • Local provisions before heading into Cacapon
     

Mama’s Pizza & Subs

Classic small-town pizza and subs—easy cabin takeout option.
 

The Cardinal Bar (Berkeley Springs Staple)

  • Address: 110 Congress St, Berkeley Springs, WV 25411

  • Phone: (919) 670-6099

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Website/Info: https://townofbathwv.gov/  (Town of Bath)
 

 Lot 12 Public House (Best Upscale Restaurant)

One of the best sit-down dining spots in town:

  • Elevated American cuisine

  • Great for a nicer dinner night out

Contact

We are always looking for new and exciting opportunities. Let's connect.

412-480-7246

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