Discover Barboursville: History, Lake, and Trails

Barboursville combines historic architecture with excursions on the water and a variety of trails. Those looking for a vacation apartment or vacation home for their stay can make their preferred way of spending the day the starting point: Historic buildings and events await in town, while Lake William and Barboursville Park offer their own opportunities for exercise and nature experiences.

Historic Buildings and a Distinctive Sense of Place

A good introduction to the history of Barboursville is the Barboursville Historic District. It comprises 20 buildings, 17 of which contribute to the town’s historic preservation. Its local significance is connected to Barboursville’s early development as a commercial center and its later location along transportation corridors. Thus, the focus is not just on a single house, but on a historic area of town with several prominent buildings.

Among the notable homes is the George McComas Home. The two-story residence was built in 1902 by builder P.A. Vallandingham. It is constructed using wood-frame construction and is classified as Queen Anne style. The Thornburg House also dates back to the town’s early history: It was built in 1901 and is considered an unusual example of Queen Anne architecture in Barboursville and the surrounding area. Those interested in architectural history and historic homes will find specific points of interest here for a culturally oriented stay.

Lake William: Fishing, Walking, and Jogging

Lake William is suited to visitors who want to combine a day by the water with a simple activity. The lake is stocked every year with trout, catfish, and bass. Fishing is possible from the shore or the pier. A trail approximately one mile long also runs around Lake William for walking and jogging. The approximate distance helps you plan your day without implying a specific walking time.

For families, this area can bring together different interests: While some may choose the lake as a fishing destination, the trail can be used for a walk or jog. Which accommodation in Barboursville is suitable mainly depends on whether you place greater emphasis on historic discoveries, time by the water, or active days outdoors.

More Than 40 Trails in Barboursville Park

Barboursville Park has more than 40 hiking and biking trails. The trails range from easy to difficult and are color-coded on the map: green indicates easy, blue moderate, and black difficult. This classification provides practical guidance when deciding in advance whether a shorter, easier loop or a more challenging route better suits your day’s plans. For group activities with children of different ages, it may be helpful to take the desired difficulty level into account during planning.

The historic Midland Trail is also part of the townscape: It passes through the Village of Barboursville. Those who want to get to know Barboursville not only through individual destinations but also through its historic transportation routes can incorporate this aspect into their travel planning.

Events Throughout the Year

Civil War Days and Fall Fest are annual events in Barboursville. They complement the historic buildings and outdoor activities with an events focus. Since both events have their own character, you can take into account when choosing your travel dates whether you would like to combine your stay with one of them.

Barboursville is therefore suitable for a variety of travel plans: A stay can focus on the Historic District and Queen Anne architecture, center on Lake William and the trail by the water, or make use of the hiking and biking trails in Barboursville Park. If you would like to consider another place for your travel plans in addition to Barboursville, you can also visit Huntington.

For the broader travel overview: Cabell County.