Davis, West Virginia
You're an outdoor-loving family on a budget, and you don't mind sharing a room–parents and kids together–for a few days? This 54-room lodge at Blackwater Falls State Park–one of the best vacation bargains in the Mid-Atlantic–is for you.
Room rates are low, but you get a million-dollar view. The stone-and-wood structure nudges the edge of the eight-mile-long gorge of the Blackwater River. Far below, the river races in whitewater frenzy.
The restaurant–which serves such family favorites as burgers, grilled fresh trout, and spaghetti–offers dining with a view. The large indoor pool, with hot tub, is a popular spot.
The 1,600-acre park wrapped around the lodge provides more fun. Swim, rent a paddleboat, or fish at Pendleton Lake. Hike to waterfalls on 20 miles of shady trails. Join a trail ride at the riding stables. Go mountain biking (rentals available).
Bottom line: Great views, plenty to do, and family-friendly rates.
Blackwater Lodge, 800-CALL-WVA; blackwaterfalls.com. In summer, rooms are $80 to $104 a night. Deluxe, fully equipped cabins that sleep two are $610 a week; sleeping four, $720; eight, $890.
