Welcome to the daily304 – your window into Wonderful, Almost Heaven, West Virginia.
Today is Thursday, Oct. 22, 2026.
…and now for the rest of the stories…on today’s daily304.com!
#1 – From WV NEWS – Jackson Lodge reopens at WVU Jackson’s Mill following major renovation
A historic gathering place in Lewis County is welcoming visitors again, thanks to the generosity of a lifelong supporter of West Virginia 4-H.
Jackson Lodge at WVU Jackson’s Mill near Weston recently celebrated its grand reopening following several years of renovations. The project was funded through the estate of the late Mary Jane Glasscock, whose love of 4-H began when she attended camp in the 1920s and early 1930s.
Glasscock remained involved with 4-H throughout her life. A music educator, she helped compile and edit the first official West Virginia 4-H songbook, West Virginia Sings, published in 1951. She was inducted into the West Virginia 4-H Hall of Fame in 2004.
Her family says Glasscock recognized the need for improvements to Jackson Lodge after staying there during events in the 1990s and early 2000s. Her estate helped make the renovation possible.
Jackson’s Mill has been a gathering place for generations of West Virginians. In 1921, it became home to the nation’s first state 4-H camp. Today, the renovated lodge continues that tradition of bringing people together.
#2 – From WV STATE PARKS – Discover 10 breathtaking overlooks in West Virginia State Parks
Looking for a spectacular view of Almost Heaven? West Virginia State Parks has some suggestions for your next outdoor adventure.
The state parks system is highlighting 10 scenic overlooks where visitors can experience mountain landscapes, river gorges and unforgettable views. Some are accessible by short walks, while others reward hikers willing to tackle a longer trail.
At Hawks Nest State Park, visitors can look down on the New River from an overlook perched hundreds of feet above the water. At Blackwater Falls State Park, a short hike leads to Lindy Point, offering sweeping views of Blackwater Canyon.
For a bigger challenge, Lost River State Park’s White Oak Trail leads to Cranny Crow Overlook, where visitors can see across five counties in West Virginia and Virginia. And at Coopers Rock State Forest, the main overlook provides panoramic views of the Cheat River Gorge.
Other featured destinations include Summersville Lake, Watoga, Carnifex Ferry Battlefield, Droop Mountain Battlefield, Seneca State Forest and Pipestem Resort.
Whether you’re planning a family outing, a photography trip or a fall hike, there’s a West Virginia overlook waiting to be discovered.
Read more:
https://wvstateparks.com/10-stunning-state-park-overlooks-in-west-virginia/
#3 – From WVDNR – WVDNR shares tips for enjoying West Virginia wildlife safely
From white-tailed deer and black bears to colorful songbirds and wild turkeys, West Virginia offers plenty of opportunities to observe wildlife in its natural habitat.
The West Virginia Division of Natural Resources is helping residents and visitors make the most of those encounters with practical tips for wildlife watching.
You don’t need expensive equipment or specialized training to get started. Wildlife can be found in state parks, forests, nature preserves, wildlife management areas and even your own backyard. Binoculars, a field guide, comfortable shoes and a little patience can improve the experience.
Timing matters, too. Many animals are most active around sunrise and sunset, making early morning and evening good times to explore.
The WVDNR also reminds visitors to watch wildlife from a safe distance, avoid feeding wild animals and never approach young animals or get between a mother and her offspring.
Fall visitors should also be aware of hunting seasons and follow appropriate safety precautions when exploring public lands.
Whether you’re introducing children to nature or looking for a peaceful outdoor adventure, wildlife watching is an easy way to appreciate West Virginia’s natural resources.
Read more:
https://wvdnr.gov/tips-for-observing-west-virginia-wildlife/
Find these stories and more at wv.gov/daily304.
The daily304 curated news and information is brought to you by the West Virginia Department of Commerce: Sharing the wealth, beauty, and opportunity in West Virginia with the world. Follow the daily304 on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram @daily304. Or find us online at wv.gov and just click the daily304 logo.
That’s all for now. Take care. Be safe. Get outside and enjoy all the opportunity West Virginia has to offer.
