Lumberjacks and ramps, oh my!

Last updated: August 30, 2021

Springtime in West Virginia means ramp season! The first ramps of the season generally show up in mid-March; West Virginia towns and communities celebrate the arrival in April with town dinners.

Typically, ramps are found on the north side of a hill, in a semi-shaded area. You need to use a small hand shovel to properly dig them up and make sure you get all of the roots and the bulb. You can cook ramps several different ways – fried, raw in a salad, mixed in a casserole, or steamed with other veggies.

If you don’t want to hunt ramps or cook them yourself, you can enjoy them at Camp Creek State Park’s Ramp Feast on April 29. The feast will include ramp casserole, brown beans, cornbread and more from 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Cost is $12 per person and includes a drink and dessert too! Don’t miss your chance to sample the best Appalachian dinner in the state!

After your meal, watch the annual Timbersport (also known as lumberjack) Competition! The first round starts at 11 a.m. and the second round begins at 1:30 p.m. Last year, more than 20 competitors from all across the country showed to prove their skill and talent.

There will also be a nature walk with Bibbee Nature Club from 8 a.m.-10 a.m.

Check out this YouTube video from last year’s competition by Grindingdust: