At least 157 bird species have been observed over the years at Stauffer's Marsh Nature Preserve. The birdlife recorded at Stauffer's Marsh Nature Preserve over the years is one of Berkeley County's nature highlights, along with wetlands, a fishing lake, hiking trails, and former farmland that is now wooded.
When looking for accommodations, you can start by considering what you want your trip to focus on: nature observation and trails, or historic sites, museums, and events.
Nature, Birdlife, and Trails
Sleepy Creek Lake is a 205-acre fishing lake. Listed facilities include three access points, parking, restrooms, and two fishing piers. Sleepy Creek Wildlife Management Area offers a different experience: it has four campgrounds with a total of 75 basic campsites.
About 25 miles of the Tuscarora Trail run through Sleepy Creek Wildlife Management Area. The Devil's Nose Hiking Trail, by contrast, is a three-mile loop with scenic views.
Stauffer's Marsh Nature Preserve encompasses 45 acres of wetlands and habitats with a field-like character; its long-recorded bird species add to the picture of the landscape. The 104-acre Yankauer Nature Preserve was once farmland and is now wooded.
Railroad History and Historic Sites
The Great Strike began at the Baltimore and Ohio Railroad Martinsburg Shops, where the first violence associated with the strike also took place. Within the historic complex, the Martinsburg Roundhouse is used for public events and private rentals.
Other sites offer different historical perspectives. The Apollo Theatre opened on January 19, 1914, with a celebratory ceremony and was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1979. The Adam Stephen House is much older: the native limestone house was built in the late 18th century, more specifically in the late 1770s to early 1780s.
At Hoke's Run Battlefield Park, interpretive signs tell the story of the Battle of Hoke's Run on July 2, 1861, described as the first battle of the American Civil War fought in the Shenandoah Valley. The park also has a recreational trail, a pavilion, and restrooms. Belle Boyd House serves as Berkeley County's historical museum and houses the county's visitor center.
Museums, Agriculture, and Regional Experiences
Dillon Farm Museum displays an extensive collection of antique agricultural equipment and presents live demonstrations of forgotten crafts and skills. Orr's Farm Market offers a different connection to agriculture, with a pick-your-own area and the Barnyard petting zoo.
The Berkeley County Youth Fair has been held since 1947. Its program includes livestock shows, indoor project exhibits, competitions, rides, fair food, and live entertainment. Geocaching options include Smart Caches of Berkeley County and Berkeley Gadgets. A GeoTrail runs through Berkeley County, offering visits to hidden attractions and insights into the region.
Discover more destinations: Martinsburg, Inwood, Falling Waters, Kanawha, Wetzel County, Boone County, McDowell County, Hardy County.
For the main travel overview: West Virginia.
