They didn't want activities. They wanted just to be alone with nature. The expectations of the average visitor have developed. They want to be entertained, educated and given structured recreation like golf and tennis. West Virginians make up 70 percent of those of who visit parks for a day, Hudkins said.
Most campers also are natives.
However, about 65 percent of lodge and cabin guests travel here from other states. At one time, state residents were given preference on room and cabin rentals, said Ken Caplinger, deputy chief of parks and recreation. But the policy changed because the state accepts federal grant money and giving West Virginians first chance could legally be seen as discriminatory. There is no waiting list. People may reserve cabins one year ahead for the June to Labor Day season, Caplinger said.