10 Unforgettable Short Road Trips from Barboursville, West Virginia

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10 Easy Out-of-County Road Trips Near Barboursville, WV

If you live in or around Barboursville, West Virginia, you know it’s a great spot in the Tri-State area. But sometimes you just want to hop in the car, hit the road, and explore somewhere new for a few hours. The good news? You don’t have to drive far. Within about an hour or so, you can reach small towns, riverside views, hiking trails, and unique attractions in nearby counties like:
  • Wayne County, WV
  • Lincoln County, WV
  • Mason County, WV
  • Putnam County, WV
  • Gallia County, OH
  • Lawrence County, OH
Below are 10 short road trips from Barboursville that will get you out of Cabell County and into something new, without needing a hotel or a huge budget.

1. Wayne, WV & Beech Fork Lake – Quick Nature Escape (Wayne County, WV)

Head south toward Wayne County and you’ll feel like you’ve driven hours into the country, even though it’s not that far at all. Why go: For laid-back lake time, gentle hills, and quiet backroads.
  • Enjoy a scenic drive through rolling farmland and forested ridges.
  • Spend a few hours at or near Beech Fork Lake access points in Wayne County for fishing or a peaceful lakeside picnic.
  • Pack folding chairs, a cooler, and a simple lunch—nothing fancy needed.
On a sunny day, the slow waves on the lake and the tree reflections almost feel like a mini vacation. If you’ve had a busy week in Barboursville, this is a nice reset without a long drive.

2. Road Trip to Hamlin & Rural Lincoln County – Small-Town West Virginia (Lincoln County, WV)

Drive east into Lincoln County and you’ll hit quiet communities, old churches, and that “everybody waves at you” kind of vibe. Why go: To soak up true small-town West Virginia charm.
  • Stroll through Hamlin, the county seat, and walk its small downtown streets.
  • Look for local diners or mom-and-pop spots that serve classics like burgers, hot dogs, or biscuits and gravy.
  • Take a slow drive along winding backroads—especially pretty in fall when the hills turn red and gold.
If you’ve ever wondered what life is like a bit off the main highway, this short road trip from Barboursville gives you a real feel for it.

3. Point Pleasant & the Mothman Legend – Strange and Fun (Mason County, WV)

Looking for something a little weird and wonderfully West Virginian? Head north to Point Pleasant in Mason County. Why go: Quirky roadside fun plus riverfront scenery.
  • Walk around downtown and check out the local shops and riverfront wall murals.
  • Visit the town’s famous Mothman lore sites and take a photo with the legendary statue.
  • Enjoy a stroll along the banks of the Ohio River.
It’s one of the most talked-about day trips near Barboursville, thanks to that mix of small-town feel and spooky urban legend. It’s especially fun if you enjoy odd stories and local history.

4. Mason County River Drives – Watching the Ohio Roll By (Mason County, WV)

Even if you don’t want to stop much, a leisurely cruise along the Ohio River can be incredibly relaxing. Why go: Easy, pretty views with almost no planning.
  • Follow the roads that trace the Ohio River through Mason County.
  • Pull off at small parks or river access points to stretch your legs and take photos.
  • Bring a pair of binoculars and watch for barges, birds, and river activity.
This makes a great “roll down the windows, turn up the music” kind of drive, especially in late afternoon when the sun glows across the water.

5. Teays Valley Shopping & Dining – Easy Suburban Getaway (Putnam County, WV)

Sometimes, a road trip is all about food and shopping. If that’s your style, head to Teays Valley in Putnam County. Why go: Modern conveniences, chain restaurants, and some local favorites.
  • Browse shopping centers for clothes, home goods, or a little retail therapy.
  • Try local eateries or grab a coffee and dessert for an afternoon pick-me-up.
  • Use this as a halfway stop if you’re continuing on toward Charleston.
If you’re used to the stores around Barboursville, a short drive to Putnam County gives you new menus, new shops, and a slightly different pace without feeling far from home.

6. Winfield & Putnam County River Views – Quiet Spots to Unplug (Putnam County, WV)

For a slower, scenic trip, head toward Winfield and nearby riverside communities. Why go: Relaxing water views and small-town life.
  • Drive along the Kanawha River and enjoy wide, open views.
  • Find small pull-offs or local parks where you can sit near the water.
  • Watch boats, barges, and maybe even a sunset depending on the time of day.
This is a “bring a book and a thermos of coffee” kind of adventure. Simple, calm, and surprisingly refreshing.

7. Gallipolis, Ohio – Riverside Charm Across the Bridge (Gallia County, OH)

Cross the river into Ohio for a change of scenery and a different small-town feel in Gallipolis, Gallia County. Why go: Historic river town atmosphere with walkable streets.
  • Stroll around the historic downtown area, with its older buildings and squares.
  • Spend time by the Ohio River in one of the riverfront parks.
  • Look for local cafes or ice cream shops—perfect for a sunny afternoon treat.
Being in another state, even just across the river, makes it feel more like “a trip” without the long drive or hotel bill.

8. Line-Side Drives & Covered Bridges Country Vibes (Gallia County, OH)

Beyond Gallipolis itself, Gallia County still has that classic rural Ohio look—open fields, barns, and winding two-lane roads. Why go: To see the countryside and enjoy old-fashioned scenery.
  • Plan a loop drive through the backroads near Gallipolis.
  • Look for old barns, farm stands, and scenic overlooks.
  • Bring your camera—this is a great area for simple landscape shots.
If you enjoy photography or just love seeing how the land opens up once you get away from the interstate, this quick trip from Barboursville is worth your gas money.

9. Proctorville & Chesapeake, OH – Quick River-Town Hop (Lawrence County, OH)

Northwest of Barboursville, right across the river from Huntington, you’ll find Proctorville and Chesapeake in Lawrence County, Ohio. Why go: A super close, super simple change of pace.
  • Cruise along the riverfront and take in views of the water and West Virginia hills across the way.
  • Stop at local spots for lunch or coffee.
  • Explore side streets and see how these small river towns differ from what you’re used to.
This is one of the easiest “road trips” near Barboursville—close enough that you can decide to go at the last minute and still be home by dinner.

10. Lawrence County Backroads – Curves, Ridges, and Country Life (Lawrence County, OH)

If you like to drive for the sake of driving, Lawrence County’s backroads offer plenty of curves and countryside. Why go: Scenic driving with almost no agenda.
  • Plot a rough loop on a map, then go explore—no strict schedule.
  • Roll through small communities, hills, and wooded ridges.
  • Stop when something catches your eye: a roadside view, an old building, or a local market.
On clear days, you’ll get wide views from the higher spots and thick, green canopy drives in the summer. It’s a great way to get to know the “other side” of the river from West Virginia.

Tips for Short Road Trips from Barboursville

To make these easy day trips even better, keep a simple “go bag” ready in your car:
  • Small cooler with water and snacks
  • Printed or offline maps in case cell service drops
  • Blanket for riverside or lakeside picnics
  • Phone charger and a basic first-aid kit
Most of these drives are under a couple of hours from Barboursville, but always check road conditions and opening hours if you’re aiming for specific shops or attractions.

Where Will You Go First?

Living near Barboursville, WV puts you in the perfect spot for quick road trips into Wayne, Lincoln, Mason, Putnam, Gallia, and Lawrence counties. Whether you’re into rivers, backroads, small towns, or a little bit of weird West Virginia history, there’s something waiting just down the highway. Have you tried any of these out-of-county trips already? Or do you have a favorite hidden spot near Barboursville that’s not on this list? Share your favorite short road trip in the comments and tell us what you love about it. And if you found this guide helpful, please share it with friends and family who are looking for easy things to do near Barboursville, West Virginia.
Location: Georgetown, IN, USA

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