Fort Gay West VirginiaATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Fort Gay, West Virginia.
1. Painted Cow Art Gallery and Unique Gifts
LOCAL ART AND CRAFTS
Painted Cow Art Gallery and Unique Gifts offers visitors a charming collection of local artwork and handcrafted souvenirs in Fort Gay. Visitors can browse through a variety of paintings, sculptures, and one-of-a-kind gifts created by regional artists. This cultural gem provides a perfect opportunity to take home a memorable piece of West Virginia's artistic heritage.
2. Yatesville Lake State Park
OUTDOOR RECREATION PARADISE
Yatesville Lake State Park offers stunning natural beauty and outdoor recreational opportunities just a short drive from Fort Gay. The park features a 2,300-acre lake perfect for boating, fishing, and swimming, surrounded by scenic hiking trails through lush forests. Visitors can enjoy picnic areas, camping facilities, and wildlife viewing opportunities throughout the year.
3. Yatesville Lake Golf Course
SCENIC GOLFING EXPERIENCE
Yatesville Lake Golf Course provides golfers with a challenging and picturesque 18-hole course nestled among the rolling hills near Fort Gay. The course offers stunning views of Yatesville Lake and the surrounding Appalachian landscape throughout the game. Golf enthusiasts will appreciate the well-maintained fairways, professional services, and relaxing clubhouse atmosphere.
4. Beech Fork State Park
FAMILY-FRIENDLY OUTDOOR ADVENTURE
Beech Fork State Park encompasses over 3,000 acres of recreational paradise with a 720-acre lake at its center, offering something for every outdoor enthusiast. Visitors can enjoy swimming, boating, fishing, hiking, and camping facilities throughout the park's diverse landscape. The park's family-friendly atmosphere makes it a perfect destination for day trips or extended stays while exploring the Fort Gay region.
5. Fort Bishop
HISTORIC MILITARY LANDMARK
Fort Bishop stands as a testament to Fort Gay's military history, offering visitors a glimpse into the region's strategic importance. The historic site features preserved structures and informational displays that detail the fort's role in local history. History enthusiasts will appreciate the opportunity to connect with West Virginia's past while exploring this well-preserved landmark.
6. Grayson Lake State Park
SCENIC LAKESIDE RECREATION
Grayson Lake State Park features a stunning 1,500-acre reservoir surrounded by towering sandstone cliffs and lush forests just a short drive from Fort Gay. Visitors can enjoy boating, fishing, swimming, hiking, and picnicking throughout the park's beautiful natural setting. The park's winter solstice hikes and seasonal events provide unique ways to experience this natural gem throughout the year.
7. Rush and Rowdy Event
EXCITING LOCAL FESTIVAL
The Rush and Rowdy Event brings excitement and community spirit to Fort Gay with its lively competitions and entertainment options. Visitors can experience traditional Appalachian culture through music, food, and friendly competitions during this popular local celebration. The 2025 event promises to deliver memorable experiences for both locals and tourists looking to immerse themselves in authentic West Virginia traditions.
8. Cave Run Kids Fishing Derby
FAMILY FISHING FUN
The Cave Run Kids Fishing Derby offers a wonderful opportunity for children to learn fishing skills and enjoy the outdoors in a supportive environment near Fort Gay. Young anglers can participate in friendly competition while developing an appreciation for nature and conservation. This family-friendly event provides equipment, instruction, and prizes, making it accessible for children of all experience levels.
9. Fort Gay Scavenger Hunt Adventure
INTERACTIVE TOWN EXPLORATION
Fort Gay Scavenger Hunt Adventure takes participants on an interactive journey through the hidden gems and historical sites of this charming West Virginia town. Adventurers follow clues and solve puzzles while learning fascinating facts about Fort Gay's history and culture. This engaging activity provides a unique way to explore the town while creating memorable experiences for friends and family.
10. WV State Black Bear Sunset
WILDLIFE VIEWING EXPERIENCE
WV State Black Bear Sunset offers nature enthusiasts a chance to observe West Virginia's magnificent black bears in their natural habitat during the golden hour. Guided viewings provide educational information about these impressive creatures while emphasizing conservation efforts and proper wildlife appreciation. The breathtaking sunset backdrop creates perfect photography opportunities and memorable wildlife encounters near Fort Gay.
11. Downtown Fort Gay Walking Tour
HISTORICAL TOWN DISCOVERY
The Downtown Fort Gay Walking Tour guides visitors through the historical heart of this charming West Virginia community, revealing stories from its founding to the present day. Tour participants discover architectural highlights, local landmarks, and hidden gems while learning about the town's cultural heritage. This informative walking experience provides context and connection to Fort Gay's unique place in Appalachian history.
12. Fort Gay Community Park
LOCAL RECREATION HUB
Fort Gay Community Park serves as the recreational heart of the town, offering well-maintained facilities for sports, picnics, and community gatherings. Visitors can enjoy playgrounds, sports fields, walking paths, and shaded areas perfect for relaxation throughout the seasons. The park hosts local events and provides a peaceful green space for both residents and tourists to enjoy outdoor activities.
13. Big Sandy River
SCENIC WATERWAY ADVENTURE
The Big Sandy River flows alongside Fort Gay, offering excellent opportunities for fishing, kayaking, and scenic riverside relaxation. Anglers can try their luck at catching bass, catfish, and other native species in these historic waters that form the boundary between West Virginia and Kentucky. The river's peaceful setting provides a perfect backdrop for nature photography, wildlife viewing, and water recreation throughout the warmer months.
14. Fort Gay Historical Museum
LOCAL HERITAGE SHOWCASE
Fort Gay Historical Museum preserves and celebrates the rich heritage of this small West Virginia town through carefully curated exhibits and artifacts. Visitors can explore displays highlighting the area's Native American history, early settlement, industrial development, and cultural traditions. The museum offers a fascinating window into the past, helping both locals and tourists connect with Fort Gay's unique story and Appalachian identity.
15. Kentucky Winter Solstice Hike
SEASONAL NATURE EXPERIENCE
The Kentucky Winter Solstice Hike offers an enchanting outdoor experience at Grayson Lake State Park Spillway near Fort Gay. Participants can enjoy the unique winter landscape while learning about solstice traditions and natural history from knowledgeable guides. This seasonal event provides a perfect opportunity to connect with nature during the winter months and experience the beauty of Kentucky's outdoor spaces from a different perspective.