Cacapon, pronounced "caCapon", is a derivation of a Shawnee word meaning "medicine". It refers to the area's renowned medicinal waters which have been acclaimed throughout history for their healing powers.

Once, many small truck farms sat on the land that is now Cacapon State Park, most of which died during the Great Depression. During the timbering of this region, most of the acreage that comprises Cacapon was clear-cut of all visible timber. As a result, the land for the park was purchased for pennies per acre.

Three major growth spurts shaped the Resort State Park of Cacapon as we know it today. Originally organized under the National Park Service, in the early 1940s, the old inn, bathhouse, beach, picnic areas, stables, supply house, shelters, superintendent's residence, standard and economy cabins, water and sewer systems, recreation areas, and 27 miles of hiking and bridle trails were constructed by the CCC crews at Camp Morgan.

The 1950s marked the second stage of development at Cacapon, with construction of 11 additional deluxe cabins, a maintenance building and two additional residences. A modern 50-room lodge with restaurant was dedicated in1956.

In 1973, Cacapon's evolution to the status of "Resort Park" was completed, with the construction of an 18-hole championship golf course, designed by Robert Trent Jones.

Open year-round, Cacapon is a family orientated park with activities geared for everyone. Hiking trails, fishing, horseback riding, swimming, tennis, golf, cross-country skiing and a full-time director/naturalist on duty are a few of the qualities that establish Cacapon as a true park for all seasons.