Nature lovers and history buffs alike are in for a treat when they visit the Audra State Park in the southern region of Barbour County.  The 355-acre recreation area was built around the remnants of a gristmill that was in operation on the Middle Fork River in the Audra community during the 1900’s.  The grist mill’s spillway (which controlled the flow of water around the mill’s water wheel) can still be seen in the river today.

Audra State Park is, in many ways, nature’s treasure trove for the explorer.  Its visitors can enjoy:

The grand Alum Cave with its rock overhang and the boardwalk along the  sandstone ledge that leads to it

Whitewater rafting, kayaking and fishing in the Middle Fork River, a 35-mile-long tributary of the Tygart Valley River

A sandy beach and swimming in a natural surround

Miles and miles of hiking trails

A heavily-wooded campground sheltered by dense thickets of shrubs of the West Virginia state flower, the mountain laurel (rhododendron)   Campers can choose from the 67 tent/trailer sites, some of which are equipped with electricity.  There are two modern bath houses, a dumping station, laundry facilities and a camp store on site

Just visiting for the day?  Bring a picnic lunch and gather with friends and family in the 50-guest pavilion complete with water, electricity, a large grill, and plenty of guest parking.  …But you’d better reserve it in advance:  Audra is a popular summer spot, and its facilities are in high demand. Audra State Park is the perfect get-away for the whole family.  Pets are welcome, too.