CHARLESTON, W.Va. — The “Rocket Boys” of Coalwood—the small-town students whose homemade rocket experiments inspired a bestselling memoir and Hollywood film—will be honored at Pipestem Resort State Park during the inaugural West Virginia Hall of Fame induction ceremony during National Kids-to-Parks Day on May 16.
The event is scheduled to take place from 4-6 p.m. at the park’s scenic McKeever Lodge convention center and will give visitors the opportunity to meet members of the group whose achievements inspired the film October Sky, according to Dillard Price, acting chief of the state park system
Price said the ceremony is one of several activities being hosted across the West Virginia state parks system as part of National Kids-to-Parks Day, an initiative organized by the National Park Trust to encourage families to explore local, state, and national parks, public lands, and waterways.
“National Kids-to-Parks Day is a great opportunity to introduce children and families to the outdoor experiences that make West Virginia special,” Price said. “Whether it’s fishing, hiking, wildlife programs, or meeting inspiring West Virginians like the Rocket Boys, these events help create lifelong connections to our state parks and the outdoors.”
Homer Hickam, Roy Lee Cooke, Jimmy O’Dell Carroll, Billy Rose, and Quentin Wilson, known as the Rocket Boys, grew up in Coalwood in the late 1950s and became nationally known for building rockets inspired by the launch of Sputnik. Despite limited resources and local opposition, their accomplishments inspired generations of students and space enthusiasts.
Other West Virginia State Parks participating in National Kids-to-Parks Day activities on May 16 include:
- Blackwater Falls State Park – Nature Center Event at 10 a.m.
- Cacapon Resort State Park – Youth Fishing Derby at 9 a.m.
- Cass Scenic Railroad State Park – Turkey Trek at 11 a.m.
- North Bend State Park – Railroad Hike at 10 a.m.
- Twin Falls Resort State Park – Ranger Day Camp from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
- Tygart Lake State Park – Wildlife Walk at 10 a.m.
- Watoga State Park – Youth Fishing Derby at 8 a.m.
For more information about the Pipestem event, contact park activities coordinator Scott Hill at 304-466-1800. Additional information about National Kids to Parks Day events is available at WVStateParks.com/events.
About West Virginia State Parks
West Virginia’s state parks and forests are the vacation destination of choice for more than seven million people each year. Comprising 36 parks, nine forests, and three rail trails, the West Virginia State Parks system provides endless opportunities for family fun and adventure. Make memories that last forever. Book your adventure at WVStateParks.com.