Recreation
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Recreation
Recreational activities in the Huntington region are as diverse as the people who live there. The rolling hills beckon hikers and bikers, the Ohio River and lakes entice boaters, water skiers and fishermen, and an expansive park system welcome visitors of all ages to enjoy nature.
The state parks and forests in the Huntington region provide an array of recreational activities.
Beech Fork State Park is located in Wayne County and within driving distance of Huntington. Beech Fork offers fishing and leisure boating, with many of the park's 275 campsites located by the lake. The park also has cabins, picnic facilities and hiking trails.
The Huntington region is home to two very popular municipal parks. The beauty of Ritter Park is invigorated by the constant activity of the people using its 70 acres. The park, which winds along Fourpole Creek and climbs into the hills overlooking the city, is the heart of Huntington. It is located in the south of 13th Avenue, between 8th and 13th Streets. The park's elaborate rose gardens offer a peaceful retreat from the bustle of everyday life, while the award-winning playground is a favorite for children of all ages. A walking path is lined by some of Huntington's finer homes. Indoor and outdoor tennis courts can also be found on park grounds including youth programs. The park also has an amphitheater that is a popular destination in the summer for concerts, lectures and community theater productions.
Ritter Park boasts a mile-long jogging track, along with a 2.5 mile biking path past the Memorial Arch in the West End. Most recognized, however, is the famous Rose Garden, containing 1,000 plants and noted for its All-American Rose Selections.
Harris Riverfront Park also has an amphitheater, which is located on the banks of the Ohio River and plays host to concerts during the summer. The park is also a wonderful place for a stroll along the river and has a playground to accommodate children.
Another favorite summertime destination is Camden Park, a turn-of-the-century traditional amusement park. Originally developed as a picnic area by the Camden Interstate Railway in 1903, the park has survived into the 21st century as a thriving business with an antique carousel, wooden roller coaster, log flume ride, Haunted House and 20 other exciting rides.
With well over a century of tradition, Huntington's YMCA is regarded as one of the finest in the country. The organization has in excess of 8,000 members who utilize its many gyms, racquetball courts, weight rooms, swimming pools, cardio theater, running track and so much more. Youth programs include soccer, swimming, basketball, just to name a few, while seniors enjoy many customized programs of their own. The family-oriented YMCA has day-care facilities, a Parent's Night Out program and even an outdoor pool overlooking the Ohio River where members can cool off during the summer season.
Most of the Tri-State's best golf courses can be found in the Huntington region.
Guyan Golf & Country Club is one of two private clubs in the area and also home to the Marshall University golf team. In addition to the clay tennis courts, a large pool and a first-class clubhouse, the Herbert Strong-designed golf course is renowned for its undulating fairways and fast greens.
Local residents have a number of quality public golf courses from which to choose including Esquire Country Club in Barboursville, a long and challenging tract that measures nearly 7,000 yards.
Even more recreational activities abound in the region, so get out and enjoy!
Courtesy of Discover Huntington WV magazine
