COVID-19 UPDATE: Gov. Justice announces WVSTRONG discount for West Virginians staying at state parks

​CHARLESTON, WV – To show his appreciation for the resiliency and support of West Virginians during the COVID-19 pandemic, Gov. Jim Justice announced today that West Virginia State Parks will soon offer a historic discount on lodging for all West Virginia residents.

The offer is called the WVSTRONG Discount. From the beginning of June through the end of August, all West Virginians will be eligible for a 30 percent discount on lodging at all state parks.

"At the end of the day, all West Virginians have been heroes throughout these unusual times" Gov. Justice said. "Because of the resiliency and strength you have shown, following the advice of our experts, our state has seen some of the lowest rates of COVID-19 cases in the country. You're saving lives and we can never thank you enough."

This discount is the first of its kind in the history of West Virginia State Parks. The offer applies to lodge rooms, cabins, and campsite reservations made by West Virginia residents only from June 1 through Aug. 31. 2020.

To claim the 30 percent discount on a new reservation, simply book online at wvstateparks.com and enter promo code WVSTRONG at checkout.

"We want to encourage all West Virginians to enjoy our beautiful state that we have," Gov. Justice said. "Go, West Virginia, and enjoy the parks that are near to your hearts. Or, if there’s an area where you want to visit but you haven’t been able to get to yet, go and experience a new adventure."

All West Virginians with existing reservations during this time will be proactively issued the discount as a credit on their reservation within two weeks. Credits will be automatically applied, so guests with existing reservations do not need to call.

"With this promotion, we're hoping to introduce more West Virginia residents to the beauty and outdoor recreation you'll find here at our state parks," said Steve McDaniel, director of the West Virginia Division of Natural Resources.

WVSTRONG Promotion Details

• Discount is available to guests who make a reservation online at wvstateparks.com or over the phone by calling 1-833-WVPARKS.
• Guests who claim the discount will be asked to verify West Virginia residency with a state-issued ID at check-in.
• West Virginia's senior citizens and veterans can combine the 30 percent discount with their existing discount by using code WVSENIORS or WVVETERAN at checkout.

West Virginia State Parks Reopening Plan

Overnight facilities at West Virginia’s state parks and forests will start to reopen for in-state guests this week. Campgrounds are scheduled to open first on May 21, with cabins and lodges reopening on May 26.

As facilities reopen, park and forest staff will follow all guidelines issued by Gov. Justice, as well as state and federal health officials. This includes wearing personal protective equipment, such as masks, and amending operations to incorporate more stringent cleaning and promote distancing guidelines.

“Our first and most important priority at this time is making sure our guests, visitors and staff are safe,” said West Virginia State Parks Chief Brad Reed. “We want to thank the Governor and our state’s health officials for leading us through this crisis and providing the guidance and resources we need to start reopening our parks and forests.”

For updates on reopening dates and changes to operations, visit wvstateparks.com/travel-alert.

About West Virginia State Parks

West Virginia’s state parks and forests are the vacation destination of choice for more than 7 million people each year. Made up of 35 parks, nine forests and two rail trails, the West Virginia State Parks system provides endless opportunities for family fun and adventure. Make memories that last forever. Book your adventure at wvstateparks.com.

West Virginia State Parks is managed by the West Virginia Division of Natural Resources, a division of the West Virginia Department of Commerce.