Beech Fork State Park was officially opened in the winter of 1979 and offers 3,144 acres of some of the best recreation experience in the southwestern section of West Virginia. Developed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers in the mid 1970's, Beech Fork Lake has owned up to its popularity for recreation boating, fishing and wildlife watching experiences. Construction on the dam lasted six years. Declared necessity because of flooding of beech fork of twelve pole. Three communities had to be relocated. Roads and partial homes now rest several feet underwater as remnants of what once was. Some roads can still be seen depending on the water level.
Much of the attention to the lake is given to the campground side which is located further down 152. Many people who have come to camp at the lake have never seen the Lavalette/Western side which is a shame because it has a lot to offer. Several types of birds, flowers, trees, fish, and other animals call the lake home. Fishing is one of the most common activities at this side of the lake. However, there is much more to see and do. There is a visitor center which is hard to catch open but is definitely worth the visit. It includes exhibits on wildlife, the history of the lake, and alternative energy which it mostly utilizes and was well ahead of its time in doing so. There is also volleyball and basketball courts as well as horseshoe pits. There is also several playgrounds and picnic shelters at this side of the lake.
The marina sits next to the large dam and spillway and accommodates many private boats. There is also an emergency spillway nearby which is a fun spot to explore. The marina also provides a large variety of boat rentals. There is also a small store located within the marina which most people do not realize is open 24/7 to help provide security and accommodate overnight fishermen. While at the marina visitors can buy feed the carp that gather near the dock. The reaction from the fish to a small amount of food in the water is astounding and is a must do when visiting the lake. A short drive down the road takes you to the Stowers Branch swimming area. This area is also an amazing place for something called Geocaching. You may have heard of it. There are 10+ caches on this side of the lake alone. Many of these caches are located off hiking trails. There are a few trails located on this side of the lake and they are a great way to explore some of the more interesting spots especially if you go off the trail. The four hiking trails on this side of the lake are listed below and have been here for quite some time. However, there once were five…
Trail Entrance Location Length
Rock Hollow Trail Behind Visitor’s Center 0.5
Spillway Loop Trail Above the Dam Parking 1.2
Beaver Pond Trail Stowers Branch Beach Parking Lot 0.6
Twin Coves Loop Trail Stowers Branch Beach Parking Lot 3.1
Description
This letterbox cache is located off what was once a legitimate hiking trail. The trail was located in the below dam area which is often overlooked by visitors to the marina side of the lake. This area has two play grounds and picnic shelters. The highlight of this area is the spillway where you can walk right up to what is sometimes torrents of water pouring from the lake. The trailhead is located near the picnic shelter and is marked on the map. This trail was abandoned for whatever reason but is still partly visible through the trees. Not sure of the exact path it use to take after the trees. Near the middle of the trees you’ll see something that seems to not belong up the bank and and off the trail. The cache is a small, round, and metal. Please watch for snakes! Please do not remove the stamp it needs to remain in the cache as a part of the letterbox.