Family fun in Martinsburg

Parks, attractions, and kids' entertainment

Discover family-friendly attractions, outdoor adventures, and kids' activities in West Virginia's Eastern Panhandle, just one hour from Washington DC.

Berkeley County offers endless family fun for all ages, from toddlers to grandparents. Whether you're seeking outdoor adventures, educational experiences, or classic family entertainment, our region provides safe, engaging activities that create lasting memories without the crowds of larger tourist destinations.

Why families choose Berkeley County:

  • 23,000 acres of outdoor exploration at Sleepy Creek

  • Unique attractions like West Virginia's only puppet theater

  • Swimming pools, parks, and playgrounds throughout the county

  • Indoor and outdoor activities for any weather

  • Affordable family entertainment options

  • Safe, welcoming small-town atmosphere

Outdoor family adventures

Sleepy Creek Wildlife Management Area – 23,000 acres of family fun

Sleepy Creek Wildlife Management Area is perfect for families who love the outdoors! This massive natural area offers easy hiking trails suitable for children, fishing opportunities, and wildlife viewing. The 205-acre Sleepy Creek Lake allows electric motor boats, canoes, and kayaks - perfect for a family paddling adventure.

Ages: All ages (trails vary in difficulty)

Activities: Hiking, fishing, boating, wildlife watching, picnicking

Cost: Free admission

Pro tip: Bring binoculars for kids to spot birds and wildlife

Martinsburg-Berkeley County Parks & Recreation 

The Parks & Recreation Board has many wonderful parks throughout the county. These communities feature green spaces, special events, ball fields, swimming pools, a miniature golf course, playgrounds, trails, and a dog park. A 16 foot high climbing mountain and discovery niches can be found at the newly opened Children's Garden at Ambrose Park.

Indoor family entertainment

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Wonderment Puppet Theater, West Virginia’s only full-time puppet theatre

This unique family destination is one of only 40 full-time puppet theaters in the entire United States! Featuring original shows year-round, an interactive exhibit hall, and a puppetry store where kids can take home their own puppet friend.

Ages: Perfect for ages 3-12 (adults enjoy it too!)

Shows: Multiple original productions annually

Location: Downtown Martinsburg

Pro tip: Check their schedule for special holiday shows

For more information visit Wonderment Puppet Theater website or call (304) 260-9382.

Climbing New Heights

Seeking a fun challenge that gets everyone moving? Don’t miss out on a visit to this fantastic indoor climbing gym. There are routes for everyone from beginners to the advanced. Learn more by visiting their website.

Jay Dee’s Family Fun Center

Located in nearby Inwood, this family entertainment center packs multiple activities into one location, making it perfect for families with different interests and age groups.

Activities include:

  • Waterpark - Swimming fun for hot summer days

  • Go-karts - Racing excitement for kids and adults

  • Mini golf - Classic family competition

  • Arcade games - Indoor fun for all ages

  • And more! - Multiple attractions in one convenient location

Ages: Activities for toddlers through adults

Perfect for: Birthday parties, family reunions, rainy day backup plans

Pro tip: Check their website for package deals and group rates

For more information and pricing, visit the website.

Family Fun FAQs

  • Yes! Many activities are free including county parks with playgrounds, hiking trails at Sleepy Creek, wildlife watching, picnicking areas, and various community events throughout the year.

  • Absolutely! Berkeley County is known for its safe, small-town atmosphere. Parks are well-maintained, attractions have safety protocols, and the community is very welcoming to families with children.

  • Berkeley County is just over one hour from Washington DC, making it perfect for day trips or weekend getaways when families want outdoor adventures without long travel times.