Harpers Ferry West Virginia is a very small town with big history. Many exceptional events have taken place illustrating numerous themes in American history. Early on a rifle and armory factory gave the town a significant designation. Harpers Ferry West Virginia was also considered a key strategic component for the Confederacy. Other American history topics touched on throughout Harper ferry history are Native Americans and African-Americans as well as the environment. It was designated part of the system of National Parks in 1944. With more than 2,300 acres dedicated as a National Historical Park, it’s a popular spot for its West Virginia campgrounds and many recreational opportunities.
One of the most attractive aspects of Harpers Ferry
West Virginia is Harpers Ferry National Park. The historic
community evokes a sense of walking right into the past.
It sits at the convergence of the Shenandoah and Potomac
Rivers where interesting and educational museums and exhibits
can be explored by visitors. Hiking the network of trails
in Harpers Ferry National Park among the quiet insulation
of forests is high on the list of things
to do. In Harpers Ferry camping isn’t possible
inside the park. Surrounding campgrounds offer the best
way to take the time to thoroughly explore the area. Along
the hiking trails the adjoining rivers can be seen from
up high as well as breathtaking views of Harpers Ferry
on the Cliff Overlook trail. Guided West
Virginia tours are also available for a small fee.
In Harpers Ferry camping in the surrounding area offer the closest proximity from which to visit the park and other points of interest. Harpers Ferry KOA is a great place from which to explore Civil War era battlefields, the sights and sounds of nearby Washington DC and plenty of scenic trails and paths while hiking or biking the Appalachian trail. Here in West Virginia rafting is a popular pastime during a Harpers Ferry vacation along both the major rivers. Harpers Ferry camping sites, RV sites and rustic cabins are all available accommodations. Civil War tours are popular as well and the campground even has a Civil War Re-enactor’s Museum. Other amenities available during a harpers Ferry camping trip at the KOA include a movie theater, indoor gym, picnic pavilion, pizzeria and an Olympic Size pool.
Harpers Ferry National Park isn’t the only interesting place in town. Town residents love hosting cultural events and festivals throughout the year showcasing their genuine spirit for enjoying life. In Harpers Ferry vacation goers love festivals like the Harpers Ferry Outdoor Festival which raises money annually for river conservation. In Harpers Ferry West Virginia rafting is a popular activity on both Father’s and Mothers Day. The annual seven mile raft trip on the gleaming and historic Potomac and Shenandoah Rivers is a treat for the entire family. Both rivers play a large part in every Harpers Ferry vacation. With so many annual events and recreational pursuits revolving around the rivers, it’s hard to stay away. The Paddle and Wine Tour in August is another crowd pleaser. A wine tasting takes place along a seven mile down river journey complete with specialty cheeses, crackers and decadent chocolate.
In Harpers Ferry vacation possibilities including hiking, the most popular and exciting activity aside from rafting. The town is one of the few situated along the length of the beautiful Appalachian Trail, extending from Georgia right up to Maine. Also set right along the Potomac River there are myriad water-based sports and activities to try. West Virginia campgrounds along the trail accommodate hundreds of hikers and mountain bikers every year. In this same area guided West Virginia tours are another way to explore and discover beautiful Harpers Ferry. With only an hour to Washington D.C. and Baltimore a Harpers Ferry vacation could include fun day trips or visits to some of the smaller towns like Bolivar, Charles Town and Shepherdstown, all located in Jefferson County. With so many fun things to do and try during a Harpers Ferry vacation all ages will always find captivating pursuits every day.
