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West Virginia offers a wealth of outdoor adventures, scenic natural landscapes, and cultural and historical experiences. The best part? She provides a great deal of budget-friendly road trip options, making the Mountain State a perfect destination for tourists seeking adventure while avoiding breaking the bank.

Looking for affordable in-state destinations? Look no further and read on as we provide valuable tips on saving money for and during your unforgettable Mountain Mama getaway.

There are breathtaking views, outdoor recreation, and charming downtowns all across the state. While there is likely a price to these activities, we are lucky to have several affordable options for fun in the sun.

Budget Friendly Trips in West Virginia

The Hatfield-McCoy Trail Systems span across several southern West Virginia counties including; Boone, Kanawha, Lincoln, Logan, McDowell, Mercer, Mingo, Wayne, and Wyoming counties. There is an adventure here for everyone, as the 1,000 miles of trails are divided into 10 systems, with trails designed for beginners to experts. This trip is ideal for ATV-enthusiasts, as you can continue your ride to local restaurants, lodging, and trailheads in the surrounding ATV-friendly towns. The best part…there are plenty of thrilling activities here that are cost-effective, regardless of your budget. 

New River Gorge National Park and Preserve is located just North of Fayetteville, and is the United States’ 63rd National Park. Here you can visit the iconic steel arch New River Gorge Bridge, explore 10.5 miles of the Bluestone River, experience day or night zip-lining, test your rock climbing skills, and more. No matter your budget, there are lodging options for everyone including campsites, affordable cabins, unique Air-BnBs, and local resorts to name a few.

Seneca Rocks rests in the Monongahela National Forest and is a must for any adrenaline seeker. These towering rocks are a popular destination for climbers, but offer excitement for any tourist. You can visit the Seneca Rocks Discovery Center, stream fish, and even embark on an underground tour beneath the ground in Smoke Hole Caverns. There are numerous affordable and convenient camping and rental cabins nearby for lodging.

To go along with these weekend getaways and road trips, we've included some great money-saving tips so you can continue to have a blast:

Tips for Saving Money During Your Trip

1. Research and Plan in Advance: Before hitting the road, research local attractions, accommodations, and activities to plan your itinerary and estimate your costs in advance. Searching for discounts and affordable options such as campgrounds, cabins, and state parks is a great way to save money. Websites like West Virginia Tourism and Visit West Virginia are wonderful resources for determining affordable options.
2. Pack Your Own Food: One key tip for planning a budget-friendly getaway is to prep and pack your own meals, beverages, and snacks. You will save greatly on dining expenses by purchasing and / or bringing groceries along with you. This even grants you opportunities to visit local farmers’ markets and grocery stores on the road to pick up fresh and affordable ingredients. Not only will this help you save money, but it also allows you to taste local cuisine.
3. Download Travel Apps: The greatest part about our mobile devices is the resources we have access to at our fingertips. With thousands of apps available for download, you are sure to find one that can support your needs and budget on a road trip. Fuel is likely a large cost included in your travel budget and some chain gas stations provide discounts and rewards when using their app. Route-planning apps can help you to identify road conditions, construction statuses, speed limits, and even accidents, as well as provide hands-free GPS directions.
4. Seek Out Free or Low-cost Attractions: West Virginia offers many free or low-cost attractions to those seeking an Appalachian adventure. From exploring historic landmarks and small businesses to attending local events and themed-festivals, there is always an adventure here in our home state. Search local social media pages and websites for informational event calendars and up-to-date activities. 

Enjoy your road trip on a budget and experience a summer getaway in the wonders of West Virginia. By planning ahead, exploring budget-friendly options, and implementing money-saving tips, you can make unforgettable memories without breaking the bank.