Camping Near Me in Wake
Westmoreland State Park
145 Cliff Road, Montross, VA
On the Potomac River's Northern Neck, this park offers many opportunities for family fun. It's listed on the National Register of Historic Places and has an Olympic-sized swimming pool and an adjacent bathhouse, meeting area, snack bar, camp store and power-boat ramp. You'll also find a visitor center, campgrounds, camping cabins, cabins, a playground, a fishing pier, boat rentals and 6 miles of trails. Fossil collectors enjoy hunting for ancient shark teeth along the Potomac. Offshore breakwaters are great for fishing. Birding enthusiasts find the park an excellent site for spotting American bald eagles, ospreys, kingfishers, great blue herons, common terns, green herons and gulls, as well as wintering waterfowl. The Potomac River Retreat is an overnight center suitable for family reunions and other gatherings of up to 16. Its waterfront location provides docking space at a boathouse. Murphy Hall, atop Horse Head Cliffs, offers a superb view of the Potomac River. The hall accommodates up to 72 people for meetings and other gatherings. Amenities include audiovisual equipment, a warming kitchen for catered events and an executive board room.
Camping
Check-in is 4 p.m., check-out is 1 p.m. From Feb. 15 to April 30, outdoor fires are prohibited from midnight to 4 p.m. unless a camp host is on duty. Propane and gas grills are allowed. Fire-rings cannot be used when outdoor fires are prohibited.
Swimming and boat launch free for overnight guests.
Campsites have either fire ring grills or box grills, all of which allow campfires.
Firewood is sold at the park; starter logs are available at camp store. Because of the risk of forest infestation, please do not bring any firewood.
Camp store: Camping and picnic supplies and gift items are available.
Two vehicles per campsite; extras must park in parking lot and pay parking fee. Guests visiting campers must pay the standard daily parking fee and park in the proper parking lot. Also guests must leave the park by 10 p.m.
Accepts outlets for 20 and 30-amp current.
Laundry facilities in Campground A bathhouse.
Pets are welcome but must be attended at all times and kept on a leash no longer than 6 feet.
All camping units, equipment and vehicles must be within the campsite's perimeter without infringing on adjoining campsites or vegetation.
Site type:
EW - Electric and water hookups, various equipment, RVs of up to 40 feet, bathhouse available. Campgrounds A and B.
Std - No hookups, various equipment. RVs of up to 40 feet, bathhouse available. Campgrounds A, B, C.
GrpTentStd - One group site for up to 40 people, no hookups, tents only. Bathhouse available. Campfires and cooking allowed in provided fire-rings or grills only.
Buddy - Three group campsites for up to 24 per site (one site is in Campground B, two are in Campground C). Each has four 20' x 20' tent pads, one fire-ring, a large pedestal grill and four picnic tables.
The cancellation fee for a group camping reservation (GrpTentStd and Buddy) is higher than is that for a typical campsite.
Total sites of each type: EW, 42; Std, 74; GrpTentStd, 1; Buddy, 3
Total campsites: 133Camping cabins:
Recreation
TRAILS
Hiking and one bicycle trail; no bridle trails. Seven trails, including self-guided interpretive trails, cover six miles. The Conservation Corps Trail has seven fitness stations. Hikers can observe the flora and wildlife present on the coastal plain. The park’s location beside the Potomac River allows visitors to see how the changing river level affects the land. The park has a beach trail that offers a stunning view of the Potomac River. There are no designated swimming areas along the park's shoreline.
SWIMMING
The pool is open from the Saturday of Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day. A bathhouse and concessions are located in the pool area. In the summer, swimming is free for overnight guests in campsites, cabins and the lodge, however it cannot be guaranteed should circumstances beyond the park's control require that swimming be closed. Prior to mid-June and after mid-August, the pool may be closed on weekdays. Refunds for swimming to overnight guests will not be given under any circumstances. There are no designated swimming areas along the Potomac River at the park.
FISHING, BOATING
Fishing in the Potomac River is available throughout the year. A valid saltwater fishing license and annual registration in the state's free saltwater angler identification program is required. Rock Spring Pond boasts a variety of fish including catfish, bream, bass and crappie. A freshwater fishing license is required at the pond.
Power boats are permitted, and a boat ramp is available. Call 800-933-7275 to buy a money-saving annual boat-launch pass.
The park's boathouse sells ice, bait and tackle. Paddleboats, kayaks and stand-up paddle boards can be rented Memorial Day through Labor Day as well as on weekends from mid-April to Memorial Day and from Labor Day to Columbus Day weekend. The last boat rental is 90 minutes prior to closing time. Boats also will not be rented whenever the National Weather Service has issued a small-watercraft advisory.
First Landing State Park
2500 Shore Drive, Virginia Beach, VA
The park is the site of the first landing of the Jamestown colonists in 1607. Native American canoes, colonial settlers, 20th century schooners and modern cargo ships have navigated the park's waterways. During the War of 1812, its Cypress swamps were a source of fresh water for merchant mariners, pirates and military ships. According to local legend, Blackbeard hid in the Narrows area of the park, and interior waterways served as landing sites for Union and Confederate patrols and blockade-runners during the Civil War. Built, in part by an all African-American Civilian Conservation Corps in 1933-1940, the park is a National Natural Landmark and National Historic Landmark. Now, as Virginia's most-visited state park, it's a natural oasis in Virginia Beach's urban oceanfront area. The park has 20 miles of trails and 1.5 miles of sandy Chesapeake Bay beach frontage. Offering many recreational and educational activities, it's a great place to explore unusual habitats featuring bald cypress trees, lagoons, rare plants and wildlife, and maritime forest ecology. Cabins, water and electric hook-up campsites, picnic areas, boat ramps and a camp store with bicycle rentals are also available. The Chesapeake Bay Center houses historical and educational exhibits. The Trail Center, outdoor courtyard, pavilion and amphitheater can be rented for special events and weddings.
Camping
Park has sites with and without electric/water hookups.
Firewood is sold at the Bay Store in season and at the park office November through February during business hours.
Swim at your own risk in Chesapeake Bay; no lifeguards
Boat launch is free for overnight guests
Total sites of each type: EW-20ft, 45. EW-30ft, 27. EW-50ft, 36. Std-20ft, 75. 44-65 Group Campground, 22.
Site type:
EW-20ft: Electric/water site for tents, pop-ups and RVs up to 20 feet long. Each campsite has a picnic table and fire-grill. Bathhouse with hot showers. 20-amp service.
EW-30ft: Electric/water site for tents, pop-ups, RVs up to 30 feet length. Each campsite has a picnic table and fire-grill. Bathhouse with hot showers. 20, 30 and 50-amp service.
EW-50ft: Electric/Water site for RVs only 32-50 feet in length. Each campsite has a picnic table and fire-grill. Bathhouse with hot showers. 20, 30 and 50-amp service.
Std-20ft: No electric/water on this site. Accommodates tents, pop-ups and RVs up to 20 feet in length. Each campsite has a picnic table and fire-grill. Bathhouse with hot showers.
Sites 44 - 65: Group Campground - No electric/water on these sites. Three-site minimum purchase required. Each campsite has a picnic table and fire-grill. Bathhouse with hot showers. Good for tents. Group camp area - site specific; maximum six people per site. A large shelter, which is available to only group campers, may be rented.
Recreation
TRAILS
Hiking, bicycle and self-guided trails. Ten trails total about 20 miles, including bike and fitness trails. Trail walks are conducted by interpreters in-season, and trail guidebooks are available in the Trail Center. Bicycles are allowed on only Cape Henry and Live Oak trails.
SWIMMING
Swim at your risk in Chesapeake Bay; no lifeguards. There are no designated swimming areas at the Narrows or boat launch.
FISHING, BOATING
Fishing and crabbing are popular at the park. A valid Virginia saltwater fishing license is required. Annual parking-launching passports are available by calling 1-800-933-PARK.
Boating: Motorboats and other small craft may be launched from the Narrows boat ramp located at the 64th Street extension in the park’s southern area. Facilities include the use of launching ramps, parking for cars and boat trailers and restrooms. Swimming at the Narrows is not advised because currents there are strong.
HORSES
None at this park.
False Cape State Park
4001 Sandpiper Road, Virginia Beach, VA
Nestled between Back Bay and the Atlantic Ocean, False Cape State Park is one of the last remaining undeveloped areas along the Atlantic coast. As the former home of Native Americans, the historic Wash Woods community and a Coast Guard life saving station, False Cape honors the hardy souls who made a living from the sea. The park offers an opportunity to experience nature in a unique, primitive setting. Be prepared for weather conditions. Bring plenty of water, sunscreen and insect repellent. False Cape features guided kayak trips, primitive camping, interpretive programs, hiking and biking trails, and six miles of pristine Atlantic Ocean beach. The park is accessible only by foot, bicycle, beach transport, tram or boat. There is no public vehicular access.
Camping
Camping is permitted year-round, but reservations are required. Same-day reservations aren't taken for False Cape. Campsites at the park are in four distinct areas - Barbour Hill Bay, Barbour Hill Ocean, False Cape Landing Bay and False Cape Landing Ocean - which are separated by significant distances. For camping information, contact the Customer Service Center at 1-800-933-7275.
The park accommodates tents-only primitive camping. Drinking water is available at three locations in the Barbour Hill area (one by the contact station and two in the camping areas). False Cape Landing campers must bring their own containers to transport water from the water source. Water that's adequate for washing dished but not for drinking is available in the False Cape Landing area. There are several pit (i.e., non-flushing) toilets. Open fires are not permitted; camp stoves may be used for cooking. Carry everything in and everything out.
Campers should also be aware that groups of 10 or must get a special-use permit from the refuge at least two weeks in advance of their trip. There's no vehicular access to this park. Passage by foot or bicycle only, and only during daylight hours, is allowed through the refuge. Vehicular access through the refuge and False Cape State Park is prohibited, and violators will be prosecuted for trespassing.
Distances to False Cape campsites from Little Island City Park: Little Island City Park to Barbour Hill contact station, 5.6 miles; Little Island City Park to Barbour Hill Bay or ocean sites, 6.9 miles; Little Island City Park to False Cape Landing bay sites, 8.2 miles; Little Island City Park to False Cape ocean sites, 8.4 miles
False Cape has four primitive campgrounds.
No more than four people per site are allowed at Barbour Hill Bay Side, Barbour Hill Ocean Side and False Cape Ocean Side campgrounds
Up to six people per site are allowed at False Cape Bay Side campground.
Campers may reserve as many sites as desired so long as the maximum capacity is not exceeded.
Camping at False Cape State Park is not recommended for young children, inexperienced campers, or those who need access to emergency medical care.
There is no electricity. Pit toilets only.
Campers must park at Little Island City Park (see above under "Overnight Facilities" for holidays during which access to this parking lot is limited). Campers must leave their confirmation letter on the front dashboard where it is clearly visible. If they do not, their car will be towed. On weekdays from Memorial Day through Labor Day, Little Island City Park charges Virginia Beach residents $2 a day and non-residents $4 a day. The park charges $5 on weekend days and on holidays.
Boat access: You can launch your canoe or kayak from Little Island City Park. Boat docks are provided at Barbour Hill and False Cape Landing. Only experienced boaters familiar with Back Bay, which is large, should attempt to access False Cape by boat. In particular, shifting winds can dramatically affect water depth and navigation, making it unsafe for many boaters. The park charges those unable to paddle out a fee to transport their boats out of the park.
Interior access: Cannot be used November 1 through March 31 because of wildlife management. Hikers and bikers must pay $2 or more each to travel through Back Bay Wildlife Refuge. You can only be on refuge property during daylight hours. Groups with more than 10 members must obtain a special use permit from the refuge. Fees are subject to change.
Beach trail: Plan to travel near low tide for easiest access. Hikers and bikers must pay $2 or more per person to travel through Back Bay Wildlife Refuge from April through October. You can only be on refuge property during daylight hours. These fees, which are federal, are subject to change.
Ticks and biting insects are numerous; insect repellant is a must. Also, beware of venomous eastern cottonmouth snakes.
All trash must be packed out when you leave.
Pets are allowed at False Cape but not allowed through the Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge. Pets can be brought in only by boat to one of three landings in the park or through the North Carolina entrances.
All fees are subject to change.
Recreation
TRAILS
Hiking, bicycle trails, self-guided trails. Five trails, including the Barbour Hill self-guided interpretive trail, total 15.3 miles. They are available for hiking, biking and exploration. The park’s location on a barrier spit allows visitors to observe beaches, dunes, maritime forests of oak and pine, wooded swamps, marshes and the bay all in one visit.
SWIMMING
There are no designated swimming areas.
FISHING, BOATING
Fishing - Freshwater and saltwater fishing with a valid Virginia fishing license. Boats - Motorboats permitted.
HORSES
None - no horses allowed.
Northwest River Park and Campground
1733 Indian Creek Road, Chesapeake, VA
Located on the banks of the Northwest River in Southeastern Chesapeake, VA, this 763-acre park is the perfect blend of natural beauty and recreational activities. Year-round boating, fishing, hiking, and programs are just the beginning. We have our own putt-putt course, horse shoes, volleyball nets and so much more. The park has 66 campsites and 2 rental cabins.
The park is open from 9 a.m. until sunset year round.
Pocahontas State Park
10301 State Park Road, Chesterfield, VA
Just 20 miles from Richmond, Pocahontas offers boating, picnicking, camping, camping cabins, hiking, and nature and history programs. The Aquatic Center, which has a toddler pool, fountain wet deck, three-foot and five-foot-deep leisure pools, an activity pool and two tubular water slides, offers seasonal water-based activities for the entire family. Rowboats, paddleboats, kayaks, paddleboards and canoes may be rented at the boathouse on the 225-acre Swift Creek Lake during the summer. Two of the park's three lakes offer fishing for crappie, largemouth bass, chain pickerel, warmouth bass, bluegill and catfish. The park has more than 80 miles of trails for hiking, bicycling and horseback riding. The Civilian Conservation Corps Museum, dedicated to the Depression-era workers who helped build the state park system, is one of a handful in the nation. The park's two dining halls may be rented for meetings and events. Group facilities with primitive overnight cabins (bunkhouses) also are available.
Camping
All campsites have electric and water hookups (no sewer), grills, picnic tables and lantern holders. There are centrally located restrooms with hot showers. Check-in is 4 p.m. and checkout is 1 p.m. Campsite availability cannot be guaranteed until 4 p.m., but campers may arrive early to enjoy the park until the site is ready. Half the sites may be specifically reserved; the rest are assigned upon arrival.
Swimming and boat launching are free for overnight guests. Refunds and rainchecks will not be given should swimming be unavailable for reasons beyond the park staff's control.
All sites accept 20 and 30-amp current; sites 66 through 129 accept 50-amp.
Firewood is available for sale in the campground or park office.
Two vehicles and the camping unit are allowed at each campsite. Extra vehicles must park in overflow parking and pay the daily parking fee.
Each campsite has a steel fire ring that can be used for cooking and campfires.
Visitors to overnight guests must leave the park by 10 p.m. and are required to pay the daily parking fee.
Total sites of each type: E/W, 59; E/W Site-Specific, 52; Buddy, 5
Site types:
E/W - Electric and water hookups; RVs up to 40 feet, bathhouse with hot showers. Tents must fit on a 20' x 20' tent pad. Guests needing 50-amp service should consider site-specific sites in the 66-129 loop.
E/W Site-Specific - Electric and water hookups; bathhouse with hot showers. Various equipment sizes depending on site choice.
Buddy - Buddy site for a maximum of 18 people; electric and water group site; three campsites in each buddy site; tents, pop-ups and RVs up to 50 feet; tents must fit on 20' x 20' tent pad. The cancellation fee for buddy sites is higher; the park's five buddy sites are apart from each other.
Other park facilities
Algonquian Ecology Camp and Swift Creek Camp (Camp 3) - Built by the CCC, these two camps offer accommodations for large groups wanting to camp together. The camps have from two to four cabin groups and an activity-dining hall that has a kitchen. Each cabin group has four or five cabins (each of which can accommodate from four to six people), a leader's cabin that sleeps two, a shared restroom and shower facility, and a lodge. The cabins are rustic and have bunk beds and mattresses only, as well as a ceiling light. The lodge has a fireplace, a large charcoal grill, a covered outdoor pit grill, electricity, electric baseboard heat and a water spigot. Each building has screened windows and a campfire ring for cooking or a fire. Each cabin group accommodates up to 28 people. No additional camping units may be used in the area. Group cabin users are required to pay daily swimming fees, although at a reduced rate. Rental of these facilities includes parking. Reservations can be made up to a year in advance and are made through the park office.
Powhatan and Swift Creek dining halls - These buildings are part of each group camp and may be rented individually for meetings, wedding receptions and other gatherings. Each hall has a commercial grade kitchen with stainless steel sinks and countertops, a commercial grade refrigerator, a freezer, an ice machine and an oven. Tables and chairs for up to 125 people are included; each building has central heat and air-conditioning. The Swift Creek hall has a gas-log fireplace.
Bright Hope Equestrian Center - Located across Beach Road from the main park entrance, the area is perfect for shows and special events. The center consists of a gated and fenced 216 by 117 foot show ring with a crumb rubber and sand riding surface, a gated and fenced 161 by 83 foot warm-up ring with a crumb rubber and sand riding surface, picnic tables, charcoal grills and a restroom facility. The area is open from 8 a.m. until dark and has a horse trailer parking area that accommodates about 30 trailers as well as a separate parking area for about 30 vehicles without trailers. The center is available for reservation or can be used on a first-come, first-served basis when not reserved. There is a daily ring-use fee when not reserved. For more information or to make a reservation, call the Customer Service Center at 800-933-7275.
Heritage Amphitheater - First built by the CCC in 1938 and rebuilt in 1997, this outdoor venue holds up to 2,000. It's well-suited for concerts, stage performances and other large gatherings. The amphitheater has bench seating for up to 350, and additional spectators take seats on a gentle, grassy slope. The area has an elevated stage with backdrop, restrooms, walkways, a concession stand and a ticket booth. Vendors can set up booths and displays and have activities in an exhibit area at the top of the amphitheater hill.
Recreation
TRAILS
Pocahontas has more than 64 miles of trail for users of all skill levels.
Hiking - A total of 5.5 miles of trail for only hiking, including a paved spillway trail for those with disabilities.
Biking - Pocahontas has more than 25 miles of directional mountain bike trails including traditional single-track, machine-built flow and hand-cycle friendly trails. These trails, along with the James River Parks Systems trails, comprise the IMBA bronze level Richmond Regional Ride Center.
Biking trails are being built here faster than new maps can be printed, but interactive maps of all the park’s bike trails are on the Trail Forks website.
Multi-Use - About 33 miles of forest roads and trails help comprise the trail system for combined use by hikers, bikers and equestrians. Standalone forest roads provide roughly 12 miles of additional opportunities.
SWIMMING
The park's Aquatic Recreation Center is open from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. on weekdays and 10 a.m. to 7p.m. on weekends and holidays from the Saturday of Memorial Day weekend to Labor Day.
During summer months, enjoy a day of free swimming for each night of overnight camping for registered guests. However, it cannot be guaranteed should circumstances beyond the park's control require that swimming be closed. Prior to mid-June and after mid-August, the aquatic center may be operating with some features closed. Refunds for swimming to overnight guests will not be given under any circumstances.
FISHING, BOATING
During daylight hours only, enjoy fishing at Swift Creek and Beaver lakes. There’s a concrete boat ramp at Swift Creek Lake. Gas-powered boats are prohibited, but electric motors are allowed. A valid Virginia fishing license is required and may be purchased at the park office. When Swift Creek Lake has high water levels or is frozen over, the ramp may be closed.
The park rents paddleboats, stand-up paddleboards, canoes, kayaks and rowboats. From Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day, rentals are available 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Boats may be rented on weekends April 1 through Memorial Day weekend and from Labor Day through Oct. 31. Rentals vary by season and are weather-dependent. For more information about boat rentals or the lake’s status, contact the park office.
HORSES
No horse rentals, but there are more than 13 miles of bridle trails within the park's multiple-use trail system. Bring your own horse. No overnight accommodations for horses at the park. You'll find full-service equine facilities, Brandywine Farms and Beaver Hollow Farm, nearby. Horses may disembark at the Bright Hope Horse Complex, the horse trailer parking lot on Beach Road or the Dvorak Forest Trail parking area. State law requires that visitors carry a copy of a negative Coggins report with each horse brought to the park.
Bright Hope Horse Complex: Complete with a large parking lot, picnic tables, a restroom and two exercise rings (50 by 100 feet and 20 by 60 feet), this day-use facility offers equestrians easy access to the Bright Hope Multi-use Trail. The rings may be used by individuals for training – daily fee required – or may be reserved for group use during daylight hours. Call 804-796-4255 to reserve the space.
HUNTING
The park offers managed hunt opportunities in November and December each year. These hunts are limited to a specific number of hunters through a reservation process. Reservations for these hunts typically are made available in late September.
Additionally a special hunt season by permit only is available some years. Details on these hunts are typically posted in mid-September. Contact the park office for information about the hunts and for a permit.
Picnic Shelters
The park's seven shelters are available for rent through the Reservations Center at 1-800-933-PARK. There are two sizes, large and small. Shelters 2, 3, 4 and 5 are large; shelters 1, 6, and 7 are small. Parking fees are not included in shelter rental.
Shelter 1 (small): This shelter accommodates 30-40. It's adjacent to the playground and near a restroom. It's in a heavily wooded area, and there are many additional tables nearby under the trees. There is a 160-foot walk on a level gravel walkway to the parking lot, but there is no vehicle access directly at the shelter for unloading. The shelter has a large grill and is available for rent year-round. There are no electrical outlets or water spigots.
Shelter 2 (large): This shelter accommodates 70-80. It is the closest to the aqua center/pool complex, boating areas and restroom, and it overlooks Swift Creek Lake. There is a paved walkway to the restrooms and aqua center. Horseshoe pits and volleyball nets are just downhill of the shelter. (Patrons must bring their own equipment.) The area around this shelter is moderately shaded and grassy, and this shelter is available for rent year-round. There is a large grill for cooking, but no water spigot or electrical outlets are provided.
Shelter 3 (large): This shelter accommodates 70-80. It is about 400 feet from the aqua center/pool complex and boating areas. It overlooks a steep, fenced drop-off to Swift Creek Lake. It's near facilities but far enough away for peaceful, quiet picnicking. A large picnic grill is provided. The shelter is not well suited for seniors as there's a steep, 60-foot downhill walk from the parking lot. It is in a wooded, well-shaded area. The shelter has no water or electricity and no vehicle access for unloading.
Shelter 4 (large): This shelter accommodates 70-80, with no additional tables around the shelter. This shelter is not within easy walking distance to the aqua center/pool, playground, and boating areas. It has paved walkways and is only 10 feet from parking. It has universally accessible picnic tables, a large grill and a water spigot. The restroom is 120 feet away. This shelter is in a moderately wooded area; a small stream well suited for novice or young anglers is only a short walk away. There is no electricity.
Shelter 5 (large): This shelter accommodates 70-80. It is not within easy walking distance to the aqua center/pool, playground and boating areas. This shelter features a fireplace, water spigot, large grill and universally accessible picnic tables. It's in a moderately shaded area; a small stream well suited for novice or young anglers is only a short walk away. The shelter is 40 feet from parking and 160 feet from the restroom. There is no electricity. There is no vehicle access (for unloading) directly adjacent to this shelter.
Shelter 6 (small): This shelter accommodates 30-40 and there are no additional tables around the shelter. This shelter is not within easy walking distance to the aqua center/pool, playground and boating areas. This shelter does feature a water spigot, large grill and universally accessible picnic tables. The shelter is moderately shaded and a small stream that is well suited for novice or young anglers is nearby. The shelter is 100 feet from parking and 375 feet from the restroom. There are no electrical outlets. There is no vehicular access (for unloading) next to this shelter.
Shelter 7 (small): This shelter accommodates 30-40; there are no additional tables nearby. This shelter is not within easy walking distance to the aqua center/pool, playground and boating areas. There is a paved walkway 30 feet from the parking area. The restroom is about 350 feet away. This shelter is moderately shaded. The shelter has a water spigot, universally accessible tables and large grill. There is no electricity.
Widewater State Park
101 Widewater State Park Road, Stafford, VA
About Us:
On a peninsula where Aquia Creek and the Potomac River meet, Widewater provides access to both bodies of water. The park lies on non-contiguous parcels interspersed by private property. Two parcels are open for access. The park has a visitor center, picnic shelters, playgrounds, restrooms, canoe-kayak launches and hiking trails. The park highlights the area’s natural, historic and recreational resources.
Powhatan State Park
4616 Powhatan State Park Road, Powhatan, VA
You'll find Powhatan State Park in the northwest corner of Powhatan County on the historic James River. The park has diverse wildlife habitat, from open fields to upland hardwood forests. Guests can use the park's car-top boat slide to access the river. Other amenities include a canoe-in campground, multi-use trails, wildlife observation areas, picnic shelters and a playground.
Lake Fairfax Park
1400 Lake Fairfax Drive, Reston, VA
For recreation and fun in western Fairfax, this 476 acre park includes a 20-acre lake with fishing, the Water Mine family Swimmin' Hole, boat rentals, carousel, athletic fields, picnic shelters and picnic areas with grills, a playground, restrooms, campgrounds, trails and a skatepark.
The Water Mine Family Swimmin' Hole features tubing on the Rattlesnake Lazy River, a tot pool at Tenderfoot Pond, slides, tunnels, and interactive play features designed for young children. The Water Mine is open Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day.
Carousel and boat rentals are open Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day. Visit Marina and Carousel for hours of operation details.
The campground, picnic areas , playground, trails and skatepark are open year-round. Virginia State fishing license is required, and sailboats, gasoline and electric-powered boats and swimming are prohibited in the lake.
Bear Creek Lake State Park
22 Bear Creek Lake Road, Cumberland, VA
Nestled in the heart of the Cumberland State Forest in central Virginia, Bear Creek Lake is less than an hour west of Richmond. It's the perfect getaway for the outdoor enthusiast. Activities center on the 40-acre lake with a boat launch, fishing pier, boat rentals and a swimming beach. Other attractions include a meeting facility, cabins, camping, picnicking, an archery range and playgrounds. Guests also enjoy the park's trails and access to the adjoining 16,000-acre Cumberland State Forest, including the 14-mile Cumberland Multi-use Trail, which is available for hiking, biking and horseback riding.
Camping
Please note that the bunkhouse is not Bear Creek Lodge. The bunkhouse is next to the park's group campsite.
Bear Creek Lake allows campsite-specific reservations in the Acorn and Chestnut loops.
Check-in is 4 p.m. Checkout is 1 p.m.
Sites have metal fire-rings that may be used for campfires or as charcoal grills.
Firewood and ice can be purchased at the park office.
Two vehicles are allowed per site in addition to a camping unit. Some sites, however, can accommodate only one vehicle. Additional vehicles should be parked at the office parking area adjacent to the campground. The parking fee is charged for more than two vehicles per site.
Guests visiting campers must park in the parking area and leave by 10 p.m. Daily parking fees apply.
A campground host is available at most times in site 14 next to the Acorn Loop Campground picnic shelter. The host may also help with firewood and ice sales after the office is closed.
Acorn and Chestnut loops have campsite specific reservations. Campsites in the Black Oak loop may be reserved by site type only (setup is first come, first-served).
In Acorn Loop, the only campground by the lake, there are 11 water view tent sites (10' x 10' tent pads) with no electric and water hookups. There are also five sites there that offer no view of the water but that have electric and water hookups to accommodate popups and equipment up to 20 feet long.
Black Oak Loop has 11 sites with water and electric hookups to accommodate pop-ups and equipment up to 20 feet long, and nine sites with such hookups to accommodate equipment up to 35 feet long. (Note: The 35-foot length includes the combined length of the camper and tow vehicle. Those attempting to place equipment with a combined length exceeding 35 feet risk damaging their equipment.)
Reserve large RV sites through the Customer Service Center - 800-933-7275 or online.
Chestnut Loop has 11 electric and water sites. The campground can accommodate tents and small pop-up units.
Most sites are shaded.
Please keep pets on a leash no longer than six feet. Pets are not allowed on the beach. Pets must be attended at any time.
Quiet hours are 10 p.m. to 6 a.m.
State law permits alcohol use only in private areas (inside a cabin or camping unit) or in areas designated on permits issued by the Virginia Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control.
Campers arriving late will find at the park office door an envelope including instructions on how and when to register the following morning. Maps are provided designating the campsite location.
Number of each site type: EW, 28; RV35, 9; Waterview TENT, 11; BC Group Site, 1
EW – Electric-water sites; gravel parking area; can hold various equipment up to 20 feet; accepts outlets 20 and 30-amp current.
RV35 – Electric-water sites; gravel parking area; holds equipment up to 35 feet long; accepts 20 and 30-amp current; all in Black Oak Loop.
Waterview TENT - Tents only. No hookups. Gravel parking area; tent pads and natural surface for setting up tent.
Total: 48 sites
Group Campsite
The park rents a group campsite that has no hookups and is for tents only. It's near Chestnut Loop and next to the bunkhouse. The site accommodates up to 36 and is near a restroom. It has six picnic tables, a large pedestal grill and a stone fire pit surrounded by three benches. All equipment must be set up on gravel-covered areas. The campsite is available April 1 through Oct. 31. Group campsite guests use restrooms in nearby Chestnut Loop and Acorn Loop (about 200 yards away). There is a nonrefundable transaction fee plus a cancellation fee when reservations for this site are cancelled. The fee to cancel any group site that accommodates more than six people is greater than that for single campsites.
Dogs are allowed but must be kept on a leash no longer than six feet. Dogs must be attended at all times and are not allowed on the beach.
Sites are primitive; no water or electricity.
One vehicle is allowed per campsite. No more than eight vehicles are allowed in the group campsite area. Additional vehicles may be parked at the park office, and a daily parking fee is charged.
Check-in is at 4 p.m. and checkout is at 1 p.m.
State law permits alcohol use only in private areas (inside a cabin or camping unit) or in areas designated on permits issued by the Virginia Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control.
A burn ban is in effect from midnight to 4 p.m. Feb. 15 to April 30.
Recreation
TRAILS
All trails within the park allow only hiking. The park also provides access to the Willis River Trail, a 16-mile long trail winding through Cumberland State Forest. Also, the 15.7-mile Cumberland Multi-use Trail is available for bicycles, horses and hikers (this trail does not loop back to the park and is located in the state forest). Those interested in riding horses or mountain bikes in the Cumberland State Forest must obtain a State Forest Use Permit; call (804) 492-4121
SWIMMING
Between the Saturday of Memorial Day weekend and Labor Day, guarded beach swimming is available for a fee. Weather and other issues may at times force suspension of guarded swimming. When guarded swimming is unavailable, guests may swim at the beach’s designated area but do so at their own risk. Swimming elsewhere in the park is prohibited.
The swimming beach has restrooms and Lakeside Snack Bar, which offers sandwiches, snacks and drinks.
FISHING, BOATING
A 40-acre lake supports largemouth bass, crappie, bream and channel catfish. The Willis River, a small, slow tributary of the James, winds through the Cumberland State Forest. Those with a canoe or small boat can enjoy fishing there. Two canoe launches with access to the river are in Cumberland State Forest. A boat ramp at Bear Creek Lake is available for non-gasoline powered boats. The park also has a universally accessible fishing pier.
Boat rentals are available from Memorial Day to Labor Day. Shoulder season rentals are offered on weekends only from mid-April through Columbus Day Weekend. Parental supervision is required for all rentals. Rentals are sometimes cancelled during the shoulder season because of bad weather or staff shortages.
Canoes, rowboats, trolling motors, paddleboats, paddleboards and kayaks are for rent. Call the park for prices. A valid Virginia fishing license is required for fishing. Those 16 and older must have a license with them.
Those interested in fishing in the Cumberland State Forest lakes, including Arrowhead, Bonbrook, Oak Hill and Winston lakes, must obtain a State Forest Use Permit (in addition to a regular freshwater fishing license). Call 804-492-4121
HORSES
None within the park. There is a trailhead to the 15.7-mile Cumberland Multi-use Trail, which is popular for horseback riding. It's a day-use only trail. Those interested in riding horses there should call 804-492-4121 or visit the state forest department's website for details. Riders are required to carry a copy of a negative Coggins report for each horse brought to the park.
HUNTING
Hunting is allowed in nearby Cumberland State Forest. Call the state forest at (804) 492-4121 for specific dates.
ARCHERY
The park has a 10-lane archery range with excelsior bales and 3D targets. The range, which is managed by the park and Friends of Bear Creek Lake State Park, is open from the first weekend in March through the first weekend in December. No archery equipment is available for rent. Call 804-492-4410 for details.
Sky Meadows State Park
11012 Edmonds Lane, Delaplane, VA
Rich in history, this 1,864-acre park has scenic views, woodlands and the rolling pastures of a historic farm that captures the colonial through post-Civil War life of Mount Bleak House. Nature and history programs are offered year-round. Hiking, picnicking, fishing and primitive hike-in camping for families and groups are favorite activities in this peaceful getaway on the eastern side of the Blue Ridge Mountains. The park has 9.5 miles of bridle trails, 19 miles of hiking trails, 8 miles of bike trials and Appalachian Trail access.
Hours: 8:30 a.m. - Dusk.
Camping
All primitive
Reservations
Camping guests must set up on a campsite with the color matching what they reserved. Fifteen individual primitive tent sites have red signs; the Buddy Site has a blue sign; Camp Slater has a brown sign; and Camp Washington has a green sign.
Walk-in honor camping is available for only one night at a time.
Accommodations
Pit toilets, non-potable water, bear-proof trash cans and firewood are available in the campground.
Firewood brought from outside the park is prohibited. Campers may use dead, fallen wood around the campsites or buy firewood at the campground. Campers may not cut trees, brush or saplings.
Each campsite has a tent pad, picnic table, bear-proof locker, lantern hook and fire pit with a small grate.
Campers must keep all equipment on the site's camping pad. Check-in, 4 p.m.; checkout, 1 p.m.
Site types
TentPrimRed (Individual) - 15 primitive hike-in tent sites are marked by red signs in the campground.
BuddyPrimeBlue (Buddy) – This site is ideal for two families wishing to camp together. It is marked by a blue sign. This site is unsuitable for groups. It has two tent pads, a bear-proof locker, and a shared picnic and grill pad. It accommodates up to 12 and must be reserved ahead of time.
SlaterGrpBrown(Sm) (Camp Slater) - This is a small primitive tent group camp area that accommodates up to 24 people. It is marked by a brown sign and has four tent pads, a bear-proof locker, and a shared picnic and grill area. It must be reserved ahead of time.
WashingtonGrpGreen(Lg) (Camp Washington): This is a large primitive tent camping area for groups of up to 36 people. It’s marked by a green sign and has six tent pads, a bear-proof locker, and a shared picnic and grill area. It must be reserved ahead of time.
Total sites: 18
Recreation
TRAILS
The park has 22 miles of hiking trails, 10.5 miles of bridle trails and 9 miles of biking trails ranging from easy to difficult. The park also accesses the Appalachian Trail and has overnight parking for AT hikers (up to 14 days). The park is a three-day hike from Harper’s Ferry and a two-day hike from Shenandoah National Park.
In addition, the park offers a designated 5k course which begins and ends near the Turner Pond parking area. Be sure to check the park’s event listings here for upcoming trail racing events.
To protect our wildlife, all pets must be kept on a leash no longer than six feet. Vehicles are permitted only on paved park roads. Bicycles and horses are allowed only on designated trails.
SWIMMING
None at this park.
FISHING, BOATING
Freshwater fishing is available at the 3-acre Turner Pond. Fishing is permitted from the shoreline only. A valid Virginia State Fishing License, which can be purchased online or through local retailers, is required. Virginia residents 15 and under don’t need a fishing license here. Turner Pond is periodically stocked with a variety of fish including: largemouth bass, catfish, crappie, sunfish and bluegill. Watercraft are not permitted.
HORSES
No rentals, but the park has more than 10.5 miles of bridle trails for those bringing horses. State law requires visitors to carry a copy of a negative Coggins report for each horse brought to the park. There's a trailer parking lot at Lost Mountain.
Shenandoah National Park
3655 East Highway 211, Luray, VA
Shenandoah National Park lies astride a beautiful section of the Blue Ridge Mountains, which form the eastern rampart of the Appalachian Mountains between Pennsylvania and Georgia. The Shenandoah River flows through the valley to the west, with Massanutten Mountain, 40 miles long, standing between the river's north and south forks. The rolling Piedmont country lies to the east of the park. Skyline Drive, a 105-mile road that winds along the crest of the mountains through the length of the park, provides vistas of the spectacular landscape to east and west. The park holds more than 500 miles of trails, including 101 miles of the Appalachian Trail. Trails may follow a ridge crest, or they may lead to high places with panoramic views or to waterfalls in deep canyons. Many animals, including deer, black bears, and wild turkeys, flourish among the rich growth of an oak-hickory forest. In season, bushes and wildflowers bloom along the Drive and trails and fill the open spaces. Apple trees, stone foundations, and cemeteries are reminders of the families who once called this place home. Shenandoah National Park has many stories waiting to be told, and a world of beauty that can renew and bring peace to the spirit.
Camping
Nothing compares to sleeping under the stars. And, there's no better place to do it than Shenandoah! With five beautiful campgrounds, each with unique features and nearly 200,000 acres of backcountry to explore, your choices are limited only by your desires!
Backcountry Camping
Shenandoah National Park has 196,000 acres of backcountry and wilderness and over 500 miles of trails to explore. Backcountry camping allows you to immerse yourself in the beauty and challenge of Shenandoah's wild side. With some preparation, you can discover a world beyond where the pavement ends.
Bicycling
Bicycling is permitted along Skyline Drive and on paved areas in the park. Bicycling (road and mountain bikes) is not permitted on trails, unpaved roads or in grassy areas.* Because Skyline Drive is a two-lane road with steep hills and numerous blind curves, cyclists are urged to use extreme caution.
Visitors should be prepared to operate their bicycles during periods of low visibility, or while traveling through a tunnel, or between sunset and sunrise, by exhibiting on the operator or bicycle a white light or reflector that is visible from a distance of at least 500 feet to the front and with a red light or reflector visible from at least 200 feet to the rear. During periods of fog, reflectors will not provide necessary safety for bicyclists. Lights on both the front and rear of the bicycle are required. Mountain areas can experience dramatically different weather than what is being experienced in the lowlands, so be prepared!
Donations were received by the Shenandoah National Bicycle Coalition and Planet Bike of 150 lights to be given to visitors at the entrances for safety of the bicyclists arriving without a rear light. Lights are supposed to be dropped off as the visitors exit.
*Bicycling from Skyline Drive is permitted on Rapidan Fire Road for approximately one mile. At the end of this mile, there is a sign indicating no bicycles are permitted beyond that point.
Campgrounds
Camping in Shenandoah can be an amazing experience with the right preparation. Learn about staying in one of our campgrounds here. If you would like to experience solitude and are prepared for backpacking
Fishing
Shenandoah National Park contains over 70 mountain streams that support diverse aquatic resources including brook trout populations. Fishing opportunities are abundant but are also regulated in order to preserve and protect fish resources.
In order to protect eastern brook trout populations Park Rangers strictly enforce these regulations. If you see someone violating fishing regulations please tell a Ranger or call (800) 732-0911. Thank you and happy fishing!
Fishing Tips
Anglers are encouraged to consider the following ethical fishing techniques for hooked fish:
All fish that are to be released must be carefully handled and immediately returned to the stream. Try to release fish without removing them from the water.
Maintain control of fish with wet hands and only a slightly firm grip.
Avoid contact or damage to sensitive gills.
Never leave litter, hooks, or spent fishing line in the park-pack it out
Hiking in Shenandoah
Safety Tips:
Carry water, at least 20 oz (.6 L), and more on warm days. Do not drink water directly from any streams without boiling or purifying it first.
Wear appropriate clothing including sturdy hiking shoes and layers. Temperatures on the mountain can be 10 to 20 degrees cooler than in the valley.
Follow trail blazes and use a map. Blue blazes indicate a hiking trail, white blazes indicate the Appalachian Trail, yellow blazes indicate horse trails.
Know the difficulty level of the trail and evaluate your physical abilities and limitations. Different people experience hikes at different difficulty levels.
Follow Leave No Trace principles including staying on trail, carrying out all trash, and leaving what you find.
Never walk around the top of a waterfall. Wet rocks are slippery and can lead to dangerous falls, potentially causing serious injury or death.
Follow these guidelines on wildlife viewing safety and know what to do if you encounter a bear.
Choosing a Hike
With over 500 miles of trails, choosing the right hike for you will depend on how much time you have, where you are going in the park, the physical ability of yourself and your fellow travelers, and what you want to get from your experience.
Overview of hikes in Shenandoah: This table contains an overview of suggested hikes including distance, difficulty, and trailhead location.
Waterfall hikes: An overview of hikes that lead to waterfalls.
Brochures and Trail Maps: Trail maps for day hikes for different areas can be found on the Brochures and Trail Maps page.
Appalachian Trail: Learn more about the Appalachian Trail, 105 miles of which is in Shenandoah.
Horseback Riding
Bringing Your Own Horse
Shenandoah National Park offers over 180 miles of trails open to horse use. Some of these trails are relatively smooth, wide, gravel paths, while others are steep, narrow, rocky mountain trails that will challenge the experienced horse and rider.
Whether you are new to this area, or are looking for a new place to ride, this website plus a good map will get you started on your Shenandoah adventure.
Rock Climbing
Rock climbing is a popular activity in Shenandoah National Park. Opportunities for all levels of climbers abound. Providing these opportunities are part of Shenandoah's mission as is protecting the resources. Responsible rock climbing practices will ensure that these opportunities will be enjoyed by future generations.
Wildlife Viewing
When you spot wildlife, getting a great photo or video from the safe distance is easy if you follow our advice. Although mobile device cameras are convenient, you may want to bring along a camera that has a zoom lens for better zoomed-in photos of wildlife. Keep at least 75 feet or two bus-lengths away from all wildlife in the park, and at least 150 feet or four bus-lengths away from more dangerous animals like black bears.
Time your outing when wildlife is active: dawn or dusk. These times also have some of the best lighting for photos!
Stay quiet and still. Noise and quick movements can threaten wildlife.
Look to the edges of the landscape (e.g. where forest trees meet a grassy area).
Use binoculars, a spotting scope, or a telephoto lens for a safe, close-up view.
Pull safely and completely off the road, and use your car as an enclosure for viewing and photographing from a distance. Not only do cars provide a layer of protection, they also provide surfaces for stabilizing your camera.
Use your zoom, and to steady your shot, touch your elbows to your ribcage, or rest your elbows on your knee or another stable surface.
On your mobile device, you can zoom in by placing your thumb and forefinger together on the screen and then draw them apart just as you do to zoom in on a web page.
Watch wildlife with your eyes rather than through your viewfinder/screen as you move. It’s easy to miss things in your surroundings that could hurt or trip you when you’re only focused on what you can see on your screen or viewfinder.
Staunton River State Park
1170 Staunton Trail, Scottsburg, VA
Tucked neatly into the heart of Virginia, about 25 miles from the North Carolina border, Staunton River offers much to families and outdoor enthusiasts. The 2,400-acre park offers woodlands, meadows and shoreline along the Dan and Staunton rivers. Cabins built in the 1930s by the CCC and a campground offer overnight lodging. The equestrian campground offers large campsites and horse stalls. Access to Virginia's largest lake, Buggs Island Lake, offers freshwater fishing and boating, along with water skiing and many other aquatic activities. The park also has Olympic-sized and wading pools, picnic shelters, three playgrounds, tennis and volleyball courts, several boat launches and more than 17 miles of multi-use trails.
Camping
Half the sites may be specifically reserved; the rest are assigned upon arrival.
Each campsite has fire rings that can be used for campfires or cooking.
Swimming and boat launching free with overnight reservations, but if your stay depends on launching your boat, please call the park since boat launching is dependent on water level.
Firewood is sold at the park.
Accepts outlets for 20 and 30-amp current.
Laundry facility is in the campground bathhouse. Check with the park's visitor center for the facility's availability during off-season.
Recycling stations are throughout the park.
Boaters should remove boats from the water after use as there are no docking facilities in the camping area.
Visitors to overnight guests must leave the park by 10 p.m. and are subject to parking fees. They must park in assigned area if campsite area already has the maximum of two vehicles parked.
All camping equipment and vehicles must be set up and parked on the timbered area of the site.
There is no access to the rivers or lake from the campground.
The campground is not on the water. There are no waterfront sites.
The bathhouse is heated and has hot showers.
There are no sewer hookups, but there is a dump station.
If you need help during the summer months, please see the camp hosts, who are on site 25.
Any equipment that will not fit on your site must be parked in the overflow parking area.
During the summer months, campsites are assigned based on reservations, equipment length, and special needs and requests.
Total sites of each type: EW 45-ft, 4; EW 30-ft, 10; EW pop/tent, 20; Tent Std., 13
Site type:
EW 30-ft - Electric and water hookups, various equipment up to 30 feet, bathhouse available.
EW Pop/Tent - Electric and water hookups, popup and tent campers up to 20 feet, bathhouse available.
EW 45-ft - Electric and water hookups, pull-through up to 45 feet, RVs only, bathhouse available.
Tent Std - Tents only, no hookups, bathhouse available.
Total campsites: 47
Equestrian Camping: Electric and water hookups and a central dump station are available. Sites 1-10 are pull-through with paved surfacing and can accommodate a camping unit up to 50 feet long and one vehicle. Sites 11-13 are back-in with a gravel surface and a tent pad and can accommodate camping units up to 30 feet long with one vehicle. There are 20 covered horse stalls, a bathhouse with showers and a picnic shelter. Picnic tables, fire-rings and charcoal grills are available at each site.
All sites have electric pedestals, which have 20, 30 and 50-amp outlets.
All equipment must be kept on the paved or graveled area at the campsite.
Proof of a negative Coggins test is required.
Horses must be kept in a stall when not being ridden. Horses may not be tied up in open areas, day-use areas or around the campsites. Horses may only be ridden on designated trails and are not permitted on paved roads within the park.
Pets must be kept on a leash no longer than 6 feet and attended to at all times.
Campers are encouraged to clean their stalls. Pitchforks, wheelbarrows and buckets are available.
Recreation
TRAILS
Hiking and self-guided trails; horses allowed on multi-use trail. Ten wooded trails provide miles of hiking along the Dan and Staunton rivers as well as Buggs Island Lake. Multi-use trails are open for hikers, bikers and horseback riders. Bring your own horse and bike.
Note: To prevent damage to the park's trails, trails are often closed during wet conditions. Please call the park at (434) 572-4623 prior to your visit to ensure that the trails are available for use.
SWIMMING
The park has an Olympic sized pool and a wading pool open from the Saturday of Memorial Day weekend to Labor Day. The larger pool has a 70-foot waterslide known as "the Moccasin" as well as a smaller log slide in the shallow end. The Pollywog Pond has a frog slide and many fun water toys for kids and toddlers. (You must be less than 45 inches tall to play in the Pollywog Pond.) The pool complex is open from the Saturday of Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day and includes a bathhouse and concessions area. In-season, swimming is free for overnight guests in campsites, cabins and the camping lodge, however it cannot be guaranteed should circumstances beyond the park's control require that swimming be closed. We do not give refunds for swimming to overnight guests under any circumstances. Also, prior to mid-June and after mid-August, pool hours may vary. Contact the visitor center for details.
The pool facility can be rented for after-hours use on a first-come, first-served basis. Visit the visitor center for rental details.
FISHING, BOATING
The Dan and Staunton rivers and Buggs Island Lake are famous for the number and size of fish there. Bass, bluegill, crappie and perch are plentiful. The park has a boat launch. A Buggs Island Special Pass that covers boat launching and parking for Occoneechee and Staunton River state parks is available. A valid Virginia fishing license is required; purchase one in the park's visitor center. Annual boat launch passports are available by calling 1-800-933-PARK.
No boat rentals at this park. Guests must bring their own boats. Boat launching ramp is available. These facilities may not be accessible if the water level is too high or low. If your visit depends on the ability to launch your boat, please call the park in advance. Both motorized and non-motorized boats are permitted on Buggs Island Lake.
STRONOMICAL OBSERVATION
The park was designated as the 25th International Dark Sky Park by the International Dark Sky Association in July 2015. The park hosts guided observing sessions monthly throughout the summer and sessions for special astronomical events throughout the year. The Chapel Hill Astronomical Observational Society has donated two Newtonian-reflector telescopes that may be rented at the visitor center. The telescope, two lenses, a star map, printed instructions and hands-on tutorial by park staff come with rental.
The park hosts the Staunton River Star Party, along with the Chapel Hill Astronomical Observational Society, every March and October. Registration is required, however each Saturday night during the event is free and open to the public.
A field next the visitor center is available year-round for astronomical observing. Parking fees apply. Contact the visitor center for more information.
HORSES
Horseback riders are allowed on multi-use trail. There are no horse rentals in the park or nearby, but there are overnight facilities for horses at the park. State law requires that visitors carry a copy of a negative Coggins report with each horse brought to the park. Horses must be kept on designated trails and are not allowed on park roads, in camping areas or in day-use areas.
DISC GOLF
Staunton River is home to a challenging, woodsy nine-hole disc golf course, the only such course in the state park system. The course, created as a pilot project, opened in late 2017.
James River State Park
104 Green Hill Dr, Gladstone, VA
Nestled in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, the park features rolling grasslands, quiet forests and beautiful views, as well as 3 miles of shoreline along the James River. Visitors can hike, bike, canoe, kayak, fish or tent camp on the banks of the historic river or at Branch Pond. Facilities include cabins, a visitor center, a gift shop, a camp store, a natural playground, picnic shelters, multi-use trails, boat launches, water/electric campgrounds and equestrian camping. The park also has a universally accessible fishing pier and a .25-mile-long wheelchair accessible trail around Green Hill Pond. James River State Park Outdoor Adventures, a full-service canoe livery, provides canoe, kayak and tube rentals as well as shuttle services. For more information about the livery (open seasonally), call 434-933-8682. The park is also a great place to view the annual James River Batteau Festival. A replica of one of the unusual vessels is on display at the visitor center.
Camping
Camping reservations are highly recommended - call 1-800-933-7275. The park has four campgrounds. Two of them, Branch Pond and Canoe Landing, are open year-round for primitive camping. There are primitive restrooms at those campgrounds. Drinking water is unavailable in the primitive campgrounds, but potable water is available at five of the six picnic shelters. Canoe Landing is the only campground on the river.
Red Oak Campground has 30 sites with water and electricity and a full service bathhouse with laundry facilities. The campground, about one mile from the primitive campgrounds, is open annually from the first Friday in March 1 to the first Monday in December. It is not on the river. Half of the sites are may be specifically reserved; the other half are assigned on arrival.
Campers without a reservation, i.e., walk-ins, should make sure a site is available before submitting payment at the pay station. Visit the contact station or park office to reserve additional nights to ensure availability.
Note: You must have your reservation number(s) or confirmation letter with you at check-in. If someone else is checking in for you, make sure that person has reservation information. Be prepared to show a valid ID.
Branch Pond - Seven primitive sites in wooded area about two miles from the river (BranchPondPrimTent). Tents only. Each site has a tent pad.
Canoe Landing - Thirteen primitive sites beside the river (CanoeLandingPrimTent). Tents only. It's a short walk from vehicle parking to the campsites. These sites are to the left of the canoe launch when facing the river. No tent pads.
Canoe Landing Group Campsite (one primitive site; CLGroupCampsitePrim) - There's a group site near the canoe landing. The site accommodates up to 42 people - no hookups, tents only. It's near a restroom and features a fire-ring with a flip grill, picnic tables and a pedestal grill. There's a $30 fee for canceling a group-camping reservation.
Red Oak Campground (30 sites, RedOakEW40ft)
Electric and water hookups; the sites are shaded and can accommodate various equipment (tents, pop-ups and RVs) up to 40 feet. The sites have large tent pads and wide driveways for bump-outs.
All sites have electric pedestals, which have 20, 30 and 50 AMP outlets.
Campsites have fire-ring grills, one picnic table and a lantern hanger.
Full-service bathhouse with hot showers and wash sink for dishes; the bathhouse has four unisex showers, one of which is universally accessible.
Coin laundry facility, two washers and dryers
Showers are for campers only
All equipment must be set up within site borders. Tent pads are about 15 by 24 feet.
Two vehicles are allowed per campsite. A parking fee is charged for additional vehicles, which must park in designated areas. Guests visiting campers must pay a daily parking fee, park in designated areas and leave by 10 p.m.
A dump station is free for overnight camping guests; non-overnight guests must pay a small fee to use the dump station.
A boat launch is free for overnight guests.
The canoe livery houses the park's camp store, open seasonally. Supplies and gift items are also available at the contact station and visitor center.
Firewood is available for a small fee; fire starters are available at the camp store, contact station and visitor center.
Keep pets on a leash no longer than six feet when outside, and keep pets inside at night.
Horseshoe Campground (10 sites HorseshoeEW40ft)
Electric and water hookups; the sites are pull-through and allow two trailers to share a common area between them. There are 20 covered horse stalls and five tent pads.
All sites have electric pedestals, which have 20, 30 and 50-amp outlets.
Campsites have a fire-ring grill, one picnic table and a lantern hanger.
Full-service bathhouse with hot showers. The bathhouse has four unisex showers, one of which is universally accessible.
Showers are for camping guests only.
All equipment must be set up within site borders. Two vehicles are allowed per campsite. A fee is charged for additional vehicles, which must be parked in designated areas. Guests visiting campers must leave by 10 p.m.
A dump station is free for overnight camping guests; non-campers guests must pay a small fee to use it.
A boat launch is free for overnight guests.
The canoe livery houses the park's camp store, open seasonally. Supplies and gift items are also available at the contact station and visitor center.
Firewood is available for a small fee; fire starters are available at the camp store, contact station and visitor center.
Keep pets on a leash no longer than six feet when outside, and keep pets inside at night.
Groups with numbers greater than that typically allowed here must apply for a special-use permit at least three weeks before their stay.
Horses must be kept in a stall.
Rakes, wheelbarrows and buckets are available.
Total sites of each type: RedOakEW40ft, 30; CanoeLandingPrimTent, 13; BranchPondPrimTent, 7; CLGroupCampsitePrim, 1; HorseshoeEW40ft, 10.
A contact station is open Memorial Day through Labor Day and on weekends after Labor Day when weather is suitable. Otherwise, pay-station parking and camping are strictly enforced.
Recreation
TRAILS
The park has 15 miles of multi-use trails for hiking, biking and bridle use. Tye River Overlook, Green Hill Pond Trail and the fishing pier are wheelchair-accessible.
SWIMMING
There are no designated swimming areas. Holliday Lake State Park, 25 miles away, has lake swimming.
FISHING, BOATING
A canoe livery enables guests to float up to eight miles of the river. James River Outdoor Adventures rents kayaks and canoes. It also offers shuttles for those renting equipment and those bringing their own equipment The park is a hot spot for smallmouth bass fishing, and catfish, pan fish and the occasional river gar can be caught as well. The park also has three freshwater ponds for those who prefer more sedate fishing. A freshwater fishing license is required.
Boating - This park has a car-top launch in the canoe landing area and a boat launch at Dixon Landing.
HORSES
None for rent, but visitors may bring their own horses to use bridle trails.
Smith Mountain Lake State Park
1235 State Park Road, Huddleston, VA
On the second largest freshwater lake in the state, this picturesque park is the water enthusiast's paradise. There are numerous water activities, including swimming, boat rentals, a boat ramp and a universally accessible fishing pier. Families can also enjoy picnicking, a visitor center, an amphitheater, special programs, camping, miles of trails and cabins with boat docks.
Camping
Half the sites may be specifically reserved; the rest are assigned upon arrival.
All campsites have in-ground grills for cooking and campfires.
Firewood is available for a small fee (sorry - no complimentary wood for campers). Do not bring firewood.
One vehicle permitted in parking lot per tent site (Tent Std). Extra vehicles must park in overflow parking.
Guests will find boat-trailer and additional parking at the overflow lot about 50 yards from the campground entrance. There's no electricity at the overflow lot.
Visitors to overnight guests must pay to park vehicle in parking lot, pay for any day use services and leave the park by 10 p.m..
Fifty sites; all in the woods; no waterfront. Various equipment. Up to 50 feet (not all sites).
Full-service bathhouse with hot showers and wash sink for dishes.
All sites have a picnic table, fire ring grill and a post for a lantern.
Sites EW 30ft BackIn and EW 50ftPulThru have water and electric hookups.
A dump station is available free of charge for campers who stay in the park; non-overnight guests must pay a small fee to use the dump station.
Total sites of each type: TENT, 25
Site type: Tent Std - Tents only. No water and electricity. RVs, pop-up trailers and vans are not allowed on tent sites. All sites have a small gravel surface. The area has only a general parking lot, so only one vehicle is allowed per site. No boats or trailers allowed in tent site parking area. Tent campers with boats must park their boats in the overflow parking area at the entrance to the campground. Bathhouse available.
Total sites of each type: EW 30ft BackIn, 19; EW 50ftPulThru, 5; Tent Std, 26
Site type:
EW 30ft BackIn - Tent/van/pop-up/camper/RV up to 30 feet. Gravel sites. Five are minimum impact sites. Sites located in the woods. This site is well-suited for campers towing a small boat. Water and electric sites. All equipment must fit on the site and not encroach on natural areas.
EW 50ftPulThru, 5 - Tent/van/pop-up/camper/RV up to 50'. These gravel, pull-through sites are recommended for campers with large RVs or larger boats. Because of the gravel, tent set-ups are discouraged. Campers with smaller boat should request site type EW 30ft BackIn. Water and electricity available. All equipment must fit on the site and not encroach on natural areas.
RV sites (EW 30ft BackIn and EW 50ftPulThru, accept outlets for 20 and 30 amp current. There are no waterfront sites at this park. These sites have electric and water, and a bathhouse is available.
General campground information:
A trail not advertised for day use leads to the water for fishing at anytime, however there are no designated swimming areas and the mooring of boats is not permitted.
Campers pulling a boat trailer will have to bring the boat back to the site or overflow park each night as there are no mooring facilities at the park. Reminder: There is no charge to launch for overnight campers.
There is one site that may be used as a universally accessible site. The park is unable to hold it. This site has a universally accessible picnic table and pedestal grill.
The campground remains open from the first Friday in March through the first Monday of December. Reservations are strongly encouraged during prime season.
Recreation
TRAILS
There are 13 hiking trails ranging from half a mile to three miles long. Trails meander through the park’s various features, including hardwood forests, pine forests, secluded coves and picturesque vistas. They are open year-round during daylight hours.
SWIMMING
The park’s 500-foot beach is one of two public beaches on the lake. Between the Saturday of Memorial Day weekend and Labor Day, guarded beach swimming is available for a fee. Weather and other issues may at times force suspension of guarded swimming. When guarded swimming is unavailable, guests may swim at the beach’s designated area at their own risk. Swimming elsewhere in the park is not advised.
The beach and snack bar are open from Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day, Monday through Thursday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Friday, Saturday, Sunday and holidays. Beach hours may be limited during the last two weeks of August. Call the park for open-beach hours during this time.
FISHING, BOATING
Located on Smith Mountain Lake, the park offers ample opportunities for shore and boat fishing. You’ll find striped bass, largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, catfish and several other species.
Fishing tournaments are scheduled at the park office. A special-use permit application, which may be obtained from the office, is required and must be submitted at least two weeks prior to a tournament. Tournaments are scheduled first-come, first-served.
Boat launching fee required for day-use public; overnight guests launch for free. There are no overnight mooring areas except in the cabin area for cabin guests only. The campers must return their boats to the campsite or overflow parking area. Boat rentals (canoes, kayaks, hydrobikes, paddleboats, pontoon boats, ski boats and jet skis) are available at the park from Memorial Day through Labor Day. The park concessionaire also rents boats offsite the rest of the year. Reservations are taken for those wishing to rent more than six hours. From Memorial Day through Labor Day, call 540-297-3642 for information and reservations; call 540-721-1639 the rest of the year. Call 800-933-PARK to buy an annual boat launch pass.
Douthat State Park
14239 Douthat State Park Road, Millboro, VA
A traditional family park for 75 years, Douthat is listed on the National Register of Historic Places for the role its design played in the development of parks nationwide. Amid some of Virginia's most breathtaking mountain scenery, visitors enjoy interpretive programs, four miles of stream fishing, a 50-acre lake stocked with trout, a sandy swimming beach with snack bar, boat rentals, a gift shop and camp store, cabins, and more than 43 miles of hiking, mountain biking and bridle trails. Plus, there are playgrounds, an amphitheater, picnic areas, tent and trailer camping, and a restaurant overlooking the lake. The park also has 32 cabins and three lodges that accommodate 15, 16 and 18 guests each.
Camping
Douthat is known for delightful, inviting campsites. Some offer a splendid view of Douthat Lake. (Note: Water is unavailable at individual campsites from November through March because of freezing weather. As hot water is still available in the bathhouse, camping fees are not reduced.) The campgrounds are pet-friendly. Generators may not be used in any campgrounds.
Firewood is for sale. Because of the possibility of destructive invasive species, do not bring firewood.
Late arriving campers will find an envelope with their name on it to the left of the park office door. It includes instructions on how and when to register the following morning. Park maps are provided so that these campers may find their campground. The park office is the first building on the right after exiting I-64 and passing the collection booth.
Campsites have grills for cooking or a campfire. All fires must be kept within the grill. Picnic tables and lantern posts are also provided.
Two vehicles per campsite in addition to camping unit; extra vehicles must park in overflow parking area, and parking fees apply for extra vehicles. All equipment must be placed within site's gravel borders. Campsite vehicle area is crushed run gravel; tent pad is pea gravel for drainage.
Park visitors not registered for cabin/campground use must pay parking fee and leave the park by 10 p.m.
Total sites of each type: A-StdLake Lakeside, 19; B-EW Beaver Dam Horse, 14; C-EW White Oak, 31; D-EW Whispering Pines, 23
Site type:
A - StdLake Lakeside - Nineteen RV or tent sites with gravel pads. Maximum RV length is 40 feet with parking for tow or towed vehicles on sites. The campground has dump stations, showers and flush toilets. Sites have no water hookup, but there are water spigots throughout the campground. Those needing electricity should use the White Oak or Whispering Pines Campground; generators are not allowed.
B - EW Beaver Dam (equestrian camping). Fourteen mostly shaded RV or tent sites (four pull-throughs) with gravel pads, electricity (30 and 50-amp service) and water (no sewer hookups at site). Maximum RV length is 40 feet with parking for tow or towed vehicles on sites. The campground has dump stations, showers and flush toilets. There are 14 covered stalls rented separately from camping sites. Guests must provide their own hay and water bucket and must clean up after their horses. The park provides a rake, shovel and wheelbarrow. Stalls measure 12 by 12 feet. Only one horse is allowed per stall. Horses are not permitted to stay in trailers or any other area of the park. At least one person must stay in the campground overnight for the entire duration of the stall reservation.
C - EW White Oak - EW White Oak - Thirty-one mostly shaded RV or tent sites with gravel pads, electricity (30-amp service) and water (no sewer hookups at site). Maximum RV length is 40 feet with parking for tow or towed vehicles on sites. The campground has dump stations, showers and flush toilets.
D - EW Whispering Pines - Twenty-three RV or tent sites with gravel pads, electricity (30 and 50-amp service) and water (no sewer hookups at site). Maximum RV length is 50 feet with parking for tow or towed vehicles on sites. The campground has dump stations, showers and flush toilets. A playground is nearby.
Total sites: 87
Recreation
TRAILS
Hiking, bridle and mountain bike trails (no horse rentals). There are more than 40 miles of wooded hiking trails to choose from throughout the year, ranging from easy to difficult. Many park trails are open to mountain bikers, however hikers have the right-of-way. Douthat has 6 miles of bridle trails. Visit the park office for a map depicting trails at Douthat.
SWIMMING
Between the Saturday of Memorial Day weekend and Labor Day, guarded beach swimming is available for a fee. Operating hours are 11 a.m. - 7 p.m. Friday to Sunday and on holidays, and 11 a.m. - 6 p.m. Monday to Thursday. Weather and other issues may at times force suspension of guarded swimming. When guarded swimming is unavailable, guests may swim at the beach’s designated area but do so at their own risk. Swimming elsewhere in the park is prohibited
FISHING, BOATING
Douthat Lake is a 50-acre fee-fishing lake stocked with rainbow, brown and brook trout twice a week during the fee season. The lake also offers excellent largemouth bass fishing and fair opportunities for landing sunfish, black crappie, and channel catfish. It’s also an excellent lake for chain pickerel with October being the top month. A special trout fishing area for the kids also has been created on a section of Wilson Creek just below the dam. Fishing is not allowed five days before the first Saturday in April in Douthat Lake or in Wilson Creek upstream of Douthat Lake and from the base of the dam to the Bath-Allegheny county line. Licenses and permits required vary during the year.
Special seasonal regulations apply at Douthat Lake. Everyone 16 and older must have a valid Virginia freshwater fishing license. In addition, a Virginia Trout license or daily fishing permit is required, depending on the season. There is a daily creel limit of six trout with a seven inch minimum. One pole per person allowed, separate stringers required. Fishing hours are posted at the park.
In addition to the fishing license requirement, the following rules may apply, depending on when and where the person will be fishing. Licenses and permits are available at the camp store and wherever Virginia Department of Game and Inland Fisheries (VDGIF) licenses are sold.
Changes to the fee fishing area at Douthat State Park: The lower end of Wilson Creek, from the Bath-Alleghany county line downstream to the end of park property, will no longer be stocked during the fee season. This segment of Wilson Creek will be category
“C” stocked trout water Oct. 1 through June 15 and will be referred to as "Wilson Creek (Lower)." Also, the segment of Wilson Creek upstream of Douthat Lake, within park boundaries, will be extended. Beginning April 6, 2019, that area will include
Douthat Lake and Wilson Creek upstream of Douthat Lake and from the base of the dam to the Bath-Allegheny county line. All other rules and regulations pertaining to the fee
fishing area will be unchanged.
When stocking is suspended between June 16 and Sept. 15, the daily permit fee or trout stamp is not required, and fishing is allowed until 10 p.m. (Virginia freshwater fishing license still required.) Feel free to contact the park for status.
Between the first Saturday in April to June 15 and from Sept. 16 to Oct. 31, the lake and stretches of Wilson Creek are stocked twice a week, water conditions permitting. At these times, requirements include purchasing a Virginia freshwater fishing license and a daily permit. They are sold at the park and wherever VDGIF licenses are sold.
November 1 through the last weekend in March: Stocking continues on a random basis. Requirements include a Virginia freshwater fishing license and Virginia trout stamp.
Special fishing rules applying to children:
Those less than 16 years old don't need a license. Virginia residents under 13 may fish the entire park without a permit if under the direct supervision of an adult who has a fishing license and daily fishing permit, if applicable. The combined creel limit for all children and the adult fishing under that permit is six trout.
A special area is available in the park for those 12 and under. They must have their own permit or must be accompanied by an adult who has purchased a daily permit. Only children are allowed to fish in the area.
Call 434-525-FISH to hear VDGIF's recorded message listing trout stocking activity. DGIF administers fishing licenses and regulations; call 804-367-1000
Boating: Funyaks and Jon boats, with and without electric motors, can be rented from the first Saturday in April through the end of October. Also, canoes, paddleboats, hydrobikes and paddleboards may be rented from the Friday before Memorial Day through Labor day. If no one is at the boathouse, guests should go to the camp store for help.
A boat launch ramp is available for guests with their own non-gasoline powered boat. No launching fee is charged, but boats must be moored in designated areas. Year-round boat storage is also available from the park for a fee. No gas powered equipment is allowed on the lake.
HORSES
There's an equestrian campground at the northern end of the park. The campground offers access to the park's multi-use trail. There's also a horse trailer parking lot located at Flat Run trailhead. No horse rentals.
Fairy Stone State Park
967 Fairystone Lake Drive, Stuart, VA
About
Home of the legendary fairy stones, this park is well known for its 168-acre lake adjoining Philpott Reservoir. The park is just minutes from the Blue Ridge Parkway. Attractions include cabins, a campground, group camping, an equestrian campground, a conference center, hiking trails, lake swimming, rowboats, canoes, paddle boats, kayaks, picnicking and two playgrounds, including one in the water.
Camping
Campsites have a fire ring that can be used for campfires and cooking. Two vehicles plus the camping unit are allowed per campsite, and all vehicles must be kept on the paved area of the campsite. Additional parking is approximately a half mile from the campground area and parking fees are charged. Keep pets on a leash no longer than 6 feet when not in an enclosed area. Dogs must be attended at all times. Dog owners are expected to clean up after their pets and dispose of their waste in appropriate receptacles. Only overnight guests are allowed in the park after 10 p.m.
otal sites: Yellow, 42; Green, 8; GrpTent, 6
Site types:
Yellow sites, up to 30' RVs, pop-ups, tents; have sandy tent pad
Green sites, no tents; up to 30' RVs or pop-ups only; doesn't have a sandy tent pad
Yellow and Green sites: All sites listed above have electric and water hook-ups, no sewer. There are 12' by 14' sandy tent pads on Yellow sites only (tents must fit on pads); no tents are permitted on Green sites. All equipment and vehicles must be on the pavement and sandy tent pad at all times. This includes tents, trailers, vehicles, dining flies and other equipment. All sites are shaded. No sewer hookups, but there is a dump station.
Group Camp: Must rent at least three sites to qualify (GrpTent 01-06 Sites). All standard tent sites; no hookups; tents only. Must fit tent on 16' x 16' pad. Each has a grill, picnic table and lantern holder.
Tents only.
No water or electricity.
Rented to groups only.
Central bathhouse with running water and hot showers.
Extra tables, large grill and campfire ring available for group activities.
Keep pets on a leash no longer than 6 feet when not in an enclosed area. Pets must be attended at all times.
Equestrian Camp: Electric-water sites. Sites can hold a camping unit up to 50 feet long. No tents are allowed. Sites accept 20, 30 and 50-amp current. One vehicle and the camping unit are allowed on each site. All sites are graveled pull-through sites and have no shade. All equipment and the vehicle must be kept on the gravel area at all times. Pit toilets only. There is a common campfire area with three picnic tables and a fire-ring at each end of the campground. All sites and the lower common area are ADA-accessible. Individual sites don't have picnic tables and fire-rings. The equestrian campground is 1.25 miles from the main recreational area and the group campground. Campers may use the group campground for showers between 6 a.m. and 10 p.m. Equestrian campground has no dump station. Campers may use the dump station in the main campground but should be advised the road to the main campground is hilly with sharp curves. Proof of negative Coggins test is required. Horses must remain in stalls while not being ridden. Non-horse campers may camp here if a site has not been reserved within 30 days before the desired date. Check-in is 4 p.m. and check-out is 1 p.m. Only overnight guests are allowed in the park after 10 p.m.Pets must be kept on a leash no longer than six feet when not in an enclosed area.
Recreation
TRAILS
Most of the park's Little Mountain Trail System, 10 miles, is multi-use. Multi-use trails are open to hiking, cycling and horseback riding. The remaining trails, parts of the Little Mountain system and all of the Stuart's Knob system, are for pedestrian use only.
SWIMMING
Between the Saturday of Memorial Day weekend and Labor Day, guarded beach swimming is available for a fee. A bathhouse, concession area and toys are available. Weather and other issues may at times force suspension of guarded swimming. When guarded swimming is unavailable, guests may swim at the beach’s designated area but do so at their own risk. Swimming elsewhere in the park is prohibited.
FISHING, BOATING
The 168-acre Fairy Stone Lake is great for family fishing and boating. Paddle this serene lake in your canoe or kayak.
Boat rentals are available daily Memorial Day through Labor Day. Cabin guests may also be able to rent boats for 24-hour periods during those four months; contact the park for details. Boat rentals may be unavailable because of inclement weather and other unforeseen circumstances.
Ample pan fish are just waiting to be caught, so it’s the perfect place to teach the kids fishing skills. For more serious anglers, the lake offers some good largemouth bass. Bluegill, crappie, catfish and October-stocked trout round out the park's lake fishing. Just up the road is Philpott Reservoir, which offers good largemouth and smallmouth bass fishing. It’s also a good lake for walleye.
Fishing is allowed with a valid Virginia fishing license. Fishing licenses are sold in the park office. A fishing area is accessible to visitors with physical disabilities.
A boat launch ramp is available. The use of gas-powered boats is prohibited here, but electric trolling motors are permitted. Gas-powered boats may be used at the Philpott Reservoir, 20 minutes from the park. Rowboats, paddleboats, stand-up paddleboards, kayaks and canoes may be rented during the summer season.
HORSES
Although no horses are rented here, they are allowed on the park's multi-use trails, and the park has an area designated for horse trailers. State law requires that visitors carry a copy of a negative Coggins report with each horse brought to the park.
HUNTING
Hunting is allowed only in designated areas. About half the park's land is open to hunting. Hunting is never allowed near the public facilities - i.e., the beach, cabins and campground. Next to the park is the Fairystone Farms Wildlife Management Area, which has a 5,000-acre deer management area.
Claytor Lake State Park
6620 Ben H. Bolen Drive, Dublin, VA
Ideal for swimming, camping, hiking and picnicking, Claytor Lake is known for sport fishing and boating. The park has a full-service marina with docking slips, supplies, fuel, boat rentals and refreshments. The Water's Edge Meeting Facility is perfect for weddings, receptions and reunions, and wedding packages are available. There's also a gift shop. Three lodges and 13 cabins overlook the 4,500-acre lake, offering visitors a scenic retreat. The historic Howe House has interactive exhibits describing the ecology of the lake and the surrounding areas.
Hours: 6 a.m. - 10 p.m.
Camping
Vehicles: At campsites, two vehicles per site in addition to camping unit. All others are charged the standard parking fee. Camping guests may use the boat launch for up to two boats at no additional charge.
Two camping units are allowed per campsite; only one axled camper is allowed per site.
Campsites have recently been renovated for guest comfort and park resource protection. All equipment and vehicles must be kept within the site bordered by 6 x 6 inch timbers. Additional vehicles must be parked in the lot adjacent to the campground contact station or in the Campground D parking lot.
Visitors to overnight guests must leave the park by 10 p.m. and are charged the normal parking fee.
Each campsite has a fire ring type with a metal grill. All rest on the ground and can be used for campfires.
Firewood is available for a small fee. Please do not bring your own as it may have insects that could harm the park's trees.
Generators are not permitted in the campground.
Electric-water sites accept 20 and 30 amp current.
Campground D: Accommodates large RV units up to 40 feet on sites specifically reserved as indicated on site chart. Sites that aren't specifically reserved can accommodate RVs up to 35 feet long. Water and electric hookups except in March and November when there is electricity but no water. Also, in April and late October, availability of water depends on the weather. There are no sewer hook-ups, but there is a dump station. The area is sparsely wooded and mostly flat. Most large RV sites are pull-through. Restroom is universally accessible. Sites D-27 and D-35 are near the bathhouse and are universally accessible.
Campgrounds A, B and C: Will accommodate a mix of equipment; however, mostly tents and small trailers up to 20 feet long. No hookups for electric and water. Campgrounds are mostly wooded. Terrain varies from level to hilly.
Total sites of each type: STD, 64; E/W, 39
Site type:
STD - Various equipment up to 20 feet; campgrounds A, B, & C. No hookups.
E/W - Various equipment up to 40 feet. Cold weather may affect the availability of water - see above.
Total campsites: 103
Group campsite - Standard tent site; no hookups, tents only. Maximum of 35 people, 10 tents and 10 vehicles. Two grills, six picnic tables, no lantern hangers.
No water or electricity.
Rented only to groups.
In Campground D, which has a bathhouse with running water and hot showers.
Generators are not permitted.
Recreation
TRAILS
The park has six trails - a total of 7 miles of easy-rating hike or bike trails - open year-round. Plant life is predominantly representative of a mature oak-hickory-poplar forest. Extensive reforestation is ongoing. White-tailed deer, various birds, raccoons, squirrels and other species are common.
Within the trail system lies a 5K cross-country trail designed by Boy Scout troop 244. The trail starts on Lakeview Trail in front of the Water's Edge Meeting Facility and ends in front of the lodges. It's great for seasoned and novice runners. Those interested in hosting a 5K at the park should contact the park office.
The park's Shady Ridge Trail, a .66-mile self-guided interpretive loop trail, is part of TRACK Trail Adventures, a program that uses brochures to help kids explore nature. A different story unfolds with each page of the brochure.
SWIMMING
Between the Saturday of Memorial Day weekend and Labor Day, guarded beach swimming is available for a fee. The swimming area has a diving tower, snack bar and gift shop. Operating hours are 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. on weekdays and 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. on weekends. Weather and other issues may at times force suspension of guarded swimming. When guarded swimming is unavailable, guests may swim at the beach’s designated area but do so at their own risk. Swimming elsewhere in the park is not advised.
FISHING, BOATING
Motorboats permitted. Except for the beach and cabin area, fishing is permitted from the shoreline throughout the park. Bass, catfish, muskie, walleye and striped bass are among the popular sport fish found in the lake. A valid Virginia freshwater-fishing license is required. Licenses may be purchased at the Water's Edge gift shop when it's open or at the park office during off-season.
The park and the Virginia Department of Game and Inland Fisheries recently installed various fish attractors to improve fishing for both shoreline and boating anglers.
The park offers boat slip rental, a launch ramp (no charge to overnight guests), gasoline sales, fishing supplies and licenses, and a gift shop. Long-term boat slips are available by calling the park at 540-643-2500. Overnight dock rentals are available by calling 800-933-7275, Monday through Friday. Boats longer than 24 feet cannot be accommodated. Check-in is 4 p.m., check out is 3 p.m. There's a 14-night maximum stay limit.
Claytor Lake Water Sports at the marina offers a variety of pontoons, motorboats, canoes and kayaks, can handle all your boat rental needs. They also rent bicycles for all ages and sizes.
HORSES
None at this park, but horse rental is available at New River Trail State Park, which is about 30 minutes away.
New River Trail State Park
116 Orphanage Drive, Max Meadows, VA
New River Trail is a 57-mile linear park that follows an abandoned railroad right-of-way. The park parallels the scenic and historic New River for 39 miles and passes through four counties and the city of Galax. The trail's gentle slope makes it great for visitors of all ages to hike, bike and ride horseback. Several places in the park provide horse, canoe and bike rentals, boat launches and gift shops. Fishing is popular, and primitive camping sites dot the trail. The park hosts a horse arena, and guided horseback trips are available. There are access points to the trail at Allisonia, Cliffview, Draper, Dora Junction (near Pulaski), Foster Falls, Fries, Galax, Hiwassee and Ivanhoe. Horse trailer parking is available at Allisonia, Austinville, Cliffview, Dora Junction, Draper, Fries and Foster Falls.
- Two tunnels: 135 feet and 193 feet long
- Three major bridges: Hiwassee - 951 feet; Ivanhoe - 670 feet; Fries Junction - 1,089 feet
- Nearly 30 smaller bridges and trestles
- A historic shot tower used more than 200 years ago to make ammunition
Camping
New River Trail State Park has three primitive campgrounds: Cliffview, Millrace and Double Shoals. There's no vehicular access to the campsites and no showers or bathhouses.
Cliffview Campground (Carroll County near Galax) is a trailside campground with primitive tent camping only. It overlooks Chestnut Creek. Access is from the Dannelly Fitness Complex parking lot and across a footbridge (no direct vehicle access). Ten primitive campsites are available. Three horse campsites are available with an enclosed area for the horses. There are no covered stalls. Horse campers must park trailers at the Cliffview Ranger Station, which is about one mile from the campground. Horses may not cross the Dannelly Complex footbridge. Note: This campground is 24 miles from the Millrace Campground.
All sites are timbered and marked. Each site has a fire ring, lantern post, picnic table, access to the New River Trail and non-flush toilet. Drinking water is available. One site, CV001, is universally accessible and is reserved last if not required for a disabled camper.
Reservations are required. Same day reservations are permitted. Campers must leave their confirmation letter on their car's dashboard for overnight parking. Campers will need access to a fax machine or will need to pick up the letter at the Cliffview office if there is insufficient time to receive the letter by mail.
Note: Running water at Cliffview Campground is shut off November through March. Customers must bring water during that time.
Number of sites of each type: Primitive Tent, 10; Primitive Horse, 3
Site types:
CV001-CV010: Site CV001 is universally accessible and is the last to be rented if not required by a disabled guest.
CVH011-CVH013: Horse sites - There is an enclosed area for the horses. The area is available at no additional charge.
Millrace Campground (Wythe County at Foster Falls). This campground overlooks the New River. There is no vehicular access to the campground. There is a short hike to the sites from the parking lot. There are 21 primitive tent camping sites. Note: This campground is 24 miles from Cliffview Campground.
All sites are timbered and marked. Each has a fire ring, lantern post, picnic table, access to the New River Trail and non-flush toilet. Drinking water is available. One site, MR012, is universally accessible and is reserved last if not required for a disabled camper. There is no life-guarded swimming. The New River's current is unpredictable and potentially dangerous; underwater hazards are possible.
Reservations are required. Same day reservations are permitted. Campers must leave their confirmation letter on their dashboard for overnight parking. Campers will need access to a fax machine or need to pick up the letter at the Foster Falls office if there is insufficient time to receive the letter by mail.
Directions: From I-77, take Exit 24. Go east on State Route 69 to SR 52. Go north to SR 608. Go east and follow signs.
Number of sites of each type: Primitive Tent, 21
Site Type:
MR001-MR021: Site MR012 is ADA (universally accessible). This site is reserved last if not required by disabled citizen.
Double Shoals Campground is an honor system campground. First-come, first-served and no reservations. Two primitive sites only. Campers must bring their own water. It is part of the New River Canoe Trail and is accessible only by river or trail. The Town of Fries is the closest access. Location is mile marker P-40 on the Fries branch of New River Trail State Park.
Recreation
TRAILS
The 57-mile multi-use trail is great for hikers, bikers and horseback riders. Those seeking extra adventure will love the Hoover Mountain Biking Area. It has five loops with seven trails, which are off-limits for horses and golf carts. All trails are rated easy or moderate. Access is between the Allisonia Boat Ramp and Hiwassee River Bridge on Julia Simpkins Road in Allisonia.
SWIMMING
There are no designated swimming areas, but tubing the New River is popular here. Call the Foster Falls Boat and Bike Livery at 276-699-1034 to rent tubes.
FISHING, BOATING
This linear park parallels a 39-mile stretch of the New River. Boat ramps are available at Allisonia, Foster Falls and Austinville. The river supports outstanding populations of just about every major freshwater game fish in the state. You’ll find smallmouth bass, spotted bass, largemouth bass, rock bass, striped bass, white bass, hybrid striped bass, muskellunge, walleye, black crappie, channel catfish, flathead catfish, yellow perch, redbreast sunfish and bluegill. State records caught in the New River include muskellunge (45 pounds, 8 ounces), smallmouth bass (8 pounds, 1 ounce) and yellow perch (2 pounds, 7 ounces). The state record spotted bass came (3 pounds, 10 ounces) from nearby Claytor Lake. The New River is bound to yield many more record-setting catches in the future.
The park also rents kayaks and canoes at the Foster Falls Boat and Bike Livery, opened seasonally Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays from April to Memorial Day, open seven days a week Memorial Day to Labor Day and Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays again from Labor Day through October. For more information please call 276-699-1034.
HORSES
Guided trail rides are available April through October (closed Tuesdays and Wednesdays). Call Foster Falls Horse Livery, 276-699-2460, for rates and reservations. Bringing your own horse? Except for a two-mile section from Galax to Cliffview, the trail is available for horseback riding. Equestrian campsites are available at the Cliffview campground. No stalls or covered area for horses but there are hitching posts. Horse trailers for day-use access must be parked at the Austinville, Cliffview, Draper, Fries, Ivanhoe, Pulaski (Dora Junction) and Mark E. Hufeisen Horse Complex (Foster Falls) entrances only. State law requires that visitors carry a copy of a negative Coggins report with each horse brought to the park.
Horse complex
The Mark E. Hufeisen Horse Complex, which opened in 2008, is one of two such state-owned facilities in Virginia. It's the only rentable arena in Wythe County.
The complex sits on 16.5 acres and has a 170 by 250 foot arena with a calf-roping shoot box and back pins, bleacher seating for 600 spectators, and spectator and participant parking.
The complex can be rented for special events for a full day or half a day. Amenities included in the rental are the grounds, gate fee, concession building (which includes a refrigerator and microwave), announcer’s booth, tractor and drag, barrels and poles. The arena has seven 4,500-watt light poles around it.
Visitors may also bring their own horse and ride in the arena for $5 a day.
The Mark E. Hufeisen Horse Complex is easily accessible off of Interstate 77. Take exit 24, Poplar Camp, to Rt. 69 Lead Mines Road to Highway 52 north. About 2 miles later, turn right onto Foster Falls Road and take the first left.
Hungry Mother State Park
2854 Park Boulevard, Marion, VA
Long a family favorite known for beautiful woodlands and a placid 108-acre lake in the heart of the mountains, Hungry Mother has a sandy beach with bathhouse, boats (fishing, canoe, kayak and paddle) and a boat launch, and a universally accessible fishing pier. Guests also enjoy its campgrounds, cabins, gift shop, visitor center, six-bedroom family lodge that sleeps 15, hiking and biking trails, and restaurant. Hungry Mother is also home to the Hemlock Haven Conference Center, available for retreats, conferences and special events. Catering is available.
Camping
Firewood is for sale.
People visiting overnight guests must leave the park by 10 p.m. and pay parking fees.
Two vehicles per campsite in addition to camping unit allowed. Others must park in parking area and pay parking fee.
Each campsite has a round fire ring on the ground which can be used for cooking and campfires.
Hungry Mother allows guests to reserve specific campsites. All sites in the Creekside Campground are reserved specifically.
Total sites of each type: Hungry Mother proper - TENT, 11; E/W, 20. Camp Burson - EWS, 30; E/W, 20.
Camp Burson Camping - This campground is 1 mile before the park's main entrance.
Camp Burson guests register at Camp Burson during prime season or at the Discovery Center during off-season or when the Camp Burson office is closed. Camp Burson guests will need to drive or hike to the park's main gate to gain access to all other amenities at the park - swimming, restaurant, concessions, gift shops, cabins, other campgrounds, Hemlock Haven, etc.
Site types in Hungry Mother proper
Creekside campground (E/W, 20 sites) - Various equipment, electric and water hookups; tents, popup campers and RVs up to 30 feet; back-in sites and limited pull-through sites; accept outlets for 20 and 30 amp current (50-amp current available at Camp Burson only). Bathhouse. All sites are paved. Guests with tents are encouraged to bring an air mattress. There's a very sharp turn in the road leading to the Creekside campground so guests with large RVs and trailers should take extra care.
Royal Oak campground (11 TENT sites, 1 yurt) - Tents only. Bathhouse. Camping equipment must fit on 20 by 20-foot pad. No hookups.
Burson EWS (30 electric, water and sewer hookup sites in Camp Burson only, and not near other Hungry Mother campgrounds) - Various equipment, electric, water, sewer hookups; tents, pop-ups and RVs up to 35 feet; back-in sites and limited pull-through sites; accept outlets for 20, 30 and 50-amp current. Sites are on gravel; tent campers should bring air mattress. (Carefully read the info above regarding Camp Burson sites.)
Burson E/W (20 electric and water hookup sites, no sewer, and not near other Hungry Mother campgrounds) – Various equipment; electric and water, no sewer; tents, pop-ups and RVs up to 35 feet; back-in sites; accept outlets for 20, 30, and 50-amp current. Sites are on gravel; tent campers should bring air mattress. (Carefully read the info above regarding Camp Burson sites.)
Total campsites: 81 total in the park; 50 of which are in Camp Burson
Recreation
TRAILS
Hiking, bicycle trails and self-guided trails. More than 17 miles of trails are open year-round.
Hungry Mother offers self-guided programs for all ages and interests. The Kids in Parks Track Trail is a .6-mile paved trail that helps children and adults learn about various plants and animals in the park. The park also offers a geocaching program that takes guests on a “treasure hunt.” The Discovery Center has information about the program and geocaching in general. Guests may also visit the Discovery Center to check out one of four Park Packs for up to three days. Each pack contains supplies, equipment and games for learning about and identifying flora and fauna.
SWIMMING
Between the Saturday of Memorial Day weekend and Labor Day, guarded beach swimming is available for a fee. Weather and other issues may at times force suspension of guarded swimming. When guarded swimming is unavailable, guests may swim at the beach’s designated area but do so at their own risk. Swimming elsewhere in the park is prohibited.
The swimming beach has a bathhouse and concession area. From the Saturday of Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day, guarded swimming and a snack bar are available 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. on weekdays and 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. on weekends and holidays. Operating hours are weather dependent.
FISHING, BOATING
The 108-acre Hungry Mother Lake within the park supports a host of sport fish including largemouth, smallmouth, hybrid striped and spotted bass as well as crappie, channel and flathead catfish, carp, sunfish, rock bass, muskellunge and walleye. The channel catfish, hybrid striped bass, walleyes and musky are stocked every year.
A valid Virginia fishing license is required.
Boat launching is available for non-gasoline powered boats. A boat launching ramp and universally accessible fishing pier have also been developed. Boat rentals for canoes, kayaks, paddleboards, paddleboats and jon boats are available Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day and on weekends through October, weather permitting.
HUNTING
About 800 acres on Walker Mountain are open to deer and small game hunting annually. A valid Virginia hunting license is required. Check with the park office regarding specific areas that are open for hunting.
Grayson Highlands State Park
829 Grayson Highland Lane, Mouth of Wilson, VA
Near Mount Rogers and Whitetop Mountain, Virginia's two highest mountains, Grayson Highlands offers scenic views of alpine-like peaks more than 5,000 feet high. Facilities include a visitor center, campgrounds, and hiking trails leading to waterfalls and overlooks. Scenic horse trails and a horse camping area with electric and water hookups, stables and parking for trailers are available. The park provides year-round access to the Appalachian Trail and the Virginia Highlands Horse Trail.
Hours
8 a.m. - 10 p.m.
Camping
Grayson Highlands allows guests to reserve specific campsites.
Total sites of each type: E/W, 36. STD, 28. HorseE/W, 23. Wide Covered Stall, 20. OpnStall, 19. Wide Open Stall, 5. RV50-EW, 4. GrpTentStd (GT1), 1. CampLodge, 1.
Site type:
E/W - Electric and water sites; 20 and 30-amp; various equipment. Up to 40 feet. No horses allowed.
STD - Standard campsites; no hookups; various equipment. Up to 40 feet. One tent site is universally accessible. No horses allowed.
HorseE/W - Stable area campsites; electric and water hookups; 50-amp; various equipment. Up to 40 feet. Horses are allowed only in this area. Equestrian campers get priority booking, but any camper may make a reservation beginning 30 days prior to arrival. This area is also used for primitive camping in March, April and November.
Wide Covered Stall - Covered stalls for horses, about 8 x 10 feet; stable area; park provides sawdust for stalls. Bring your own hay bag and water bucket.
OpnStall - Open horse stalls, about 5 x 8 feet; some amenities in stalls. Bring your own hay bag and water bucket.
Wide Open Stall – Open horse stalls, about 8 x 10 feet; some amenities in stalls. Bring your own hay bag and water bucket.
GrpTentStd - Please see below for details.
Total campsites: 89
All campsites are dirt/gravel with picnic tables and grills at each site. Maximum of six campers per site.
Most sites are wooded; one site is universally accessible near bathhouse.
The horse campground is far from the park's other campgrounds.
Each site has a fire-ring for cooking and campfires.
Firewood and ice are available at the park.
Please deposit all trash in the dumpster as you exit the campground. Recycling containers are next to the dumpster.
No more than two vehicles and a camping unit are allowed per campsite. A parking fee will be charged for each additional vehicle.
There's additional parking beside and across from the Country Store.
Guests can visit overnight campers but must leave the park by 10 p.m.; no one is to roam around the park campground after 10 p.m.
Note: Primitive camping is centralized in stable area campground (HorseE/W) during March and April and in November; there are pit toilets only, and water is unavailable at this location. Drinking water is available in the park office from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. daily and from an outside spigot after hours. Camping fees are lower during the primitive camping season.
Group Camping: Grayson Highlands has a group camping area (GrpTentStd).
This group camping area accommodates up to 35 campers. Sites have no water or electric hook-ups. No minimum number of campers to be considered a group.
A standard bathhouse is about 500 feet away, and water is available within 50 feet of the campground. Toilets are within 100 feet. Parking is available beside the camp store or a lot across from the store - campers will have to walk between 20 and 40 yards to reach the camping area. Tents only are permitted.
The group camping area is between the Country Store and the turn-off loop to the regular campground. The group area has five large tent pads, five picnic tables and three fire rings.
Groups may apply at the park for a special use permit allowing use of the amphitheater and a large fire ring. (This might prove useful for special ceremonies, such as those undertaken by scout groups.) There is a small processing fee for the permit, which must be approved two weeks beforehand. The permit must be arranged through the park.
The cancellation fee for group camping is higher than that for other camping.
Recreation
TRAILS
Hiking, bicycle trails (mountain bikes only), horse trails, self-guided trails.
Backpacking
The park has long been a gateway to the state’s highest peak, Mount Rogers, as well as the Appalachian Trail and the Grayson Highlands. As the popularity of outdoor recreation has grown, so has the number of visitors to the highlands. As many as 6,000 overnight visitors and many day hikers visit the area a year. This increased usage has raised concern for protection of the fragile highlands by the Mount Rogers National Recreation Area (MRNRA), the Appalachian Trail Conservancy (ATC) and Grayson Highlands State Park. Please abide by the following guidelines when planning a visit to the backcountry.
Weather at the park can be harsh, so those planning to access the AT from the park should be familiar with its severe weather policy and associated procedures.
Limit group sizes to no more than 10 in the high country and wilderness areas.
Shelters along the A.T. are intended for through or section hikers and groups of no more than four. Do not plan to stay at or camp near Thomas Knob Shelter or the Wise Shelter.
Backcountry camping is not allowed within Grayson Highlands State Park, including at Wise Shelter, but camping is allowed in the Mount Rogers National Recreation Area (MRNRA). Hikers traveling north on the A.T. will exit the park when they cross Big Wilson Creek just past the Wise Shelter fence are welcome to camp across the creek from the shelter, on the MRNRA.
Practice Leave No Trace.
Consider setting up your camp away from the A.T., perhaps off a horse trail or a foot trail in the area. Park staff would be happy to suggest various routes or camping locations. Feel free to call park staff when planning a visit.
Commercial groups must obtain a Special Use Permit from the U.S. Forest Service. This requirement is for paid guided hikes but does not apply to scouts, schools or church groups. Call the MRNRA Headquarters at 276-783-5196 for details.
Bridle trails: More than nine miles of bridle paths wander through the park. These paths also lead to bridle trails in Jefferson National Forest. Parking facilities for horse trailers and overnight stables are available at the park. The park does not provide horses for trail rides.
Hiking trails: The park has 13 hiking trails which vary from .5 to just over 2 miles in length. These trails lead to panoramic vistas, scenic waterfalls and a 200 year old pioneer cabin. The park also offers access to the Appalachian Trail and trails in the surrounding Jefferson National Forest. Details about the park's trails are listed below.
Grayson Highlands State Park Trails
Note: A detailed map of all trails in the Mount Rogers area can be purchased at the park office.
Key: F = Foot Traffic; H = Horseback Riding; B = Mountain Bikes; X = Cross Country Skiing
Appalachian Spur Trail: mileage .8; F
Appalachian Trail: mileage (within park) 2.5; F
Rhododendron Trail: mileage 1.0; F, X
Cabin Creek Trail: mileage 1.8 loop; F
Big Pinnacle Trail: mileage 0.4; F
Twin Pinnacles Trail: mileage 1.6; F
Listening Rock Trail: mileage 1.4 loop; F
Haw Flats Trail: mileage .7 loop; F
Split Rock Trail: mileage .3 loop; F
Wilson Creek Trail: mileage 1.8; F
Wilburn Branch Trail: mileage 2.3; F, B
Stampers Branch Trail: mileage 1.7; F
Rock House Ridge Trail: mileage 1.3 loop; F
Horse Trail (east): mileage 3.2; H, F, B, X
Horse Trail (north): mileage 2.0; H, F, X
Seed Orchard Road: mileage 1.2; H, F, B, X
Old Upchurch Road: mileage 3.3; H, F, B, X
Wild Ponies
Hikers on the highlands trails are likely to encounter wild ponies. They were introduced to the park in 1974 to prevent reforestation of the highland balds. The pony herd is managed by the Wilburn Ridge Pony Association. During fall roundups of ponies for an auction held in conjunction with Grayson Highland’s annual Fall Festival, association members check the herd for health problems.
Visitors should not approach, feed or pet the ponies. They bite and kick when they feel threatened, and human food is bad for them.
Bouldering
Grayson Highlands is known as the best bouldering site in Virginia. On the park’s mountainous slopes are four main boulder fields and three smaller fields with more than 700 named climbing routes, also known as problems. The park’s geology, which is unique in the Southeast, makes it well-suited to bouldering. Climbers will find rhyolite at higher elevations as well as a metaconglomerate in a quartzite matrix elsewhere in the park. These provide steep faces with angular features including rails, flakes and edges that ensure bouldering opportunities for climbers of all skill levels.
Summer weather at the park is ideal for bouldering. Several boulder fields have an elevation of more than 4,900 feet, with temperatures in the 70s and cool breezes that allow climbing throughout summer.
The park welcomes climbers to enjoy bouldering opportunities but requires that Leave No Trace ethics be followed. Ropes and the chipping of rocks are not allowed. Climbing is inherently dangerous; all safety precautions should be taken. Stop by the contact station or office to register as a climber in case of emergency.
The park has four crash pads for rent. It also sells chalk, chalk bags and the Grayson Highlands Bouldering Guidebook. For more information about the bouldering opportunities at Grayson Highlands, visit the Mountain Project.
SWIMMING
None at this park.
FISHING, BOATING
Nearly 10 miles of wild trout streams lie within Grayson Highlands State Park. Cool mountain streams offer anglers native brook and wild rainbow trout as well as breathtaking scenery. All the streams in the park are Special Regulation Wildlife Trout Streams which require the use of single hooks and artificial lures, and all trout less than nine inches long must be released unharmed. All required state fishing licenses and creel limits apply to fishing within the park. A National Forest Permit is required when fishing national forest property, which borders the park along Wilson Creek.
Guided canoe trips are offered from Memorial Day through Labor Day, depending on the water level of the river. The trips can accommodate groups of from six to 14. The trip takes place on the New River through "a land that time forgot." Take in cliffs, shaded pastures, lush woodlands and crisp, clear water. It's a six-mile trek and takes about six hours. Participants should bring lunch, drinking water and closed-toe shoes.
Big Wilson Creek, along the northeastern boundary of the park, offers 3.5 miles of fishable waters. From its headwaters to ¼-mile below it confluence with Little Wilson Creek, the stream is designated a "Special Regulation Wild Trout Stream." A sign marks the area. Below this point, the creek is designated a "Stocked Trout Stream" and requires a trout license in addition to the state fishing license. You can reach the creek via the Appalachian Trail at Massie Gap or by taking the Big Wilson Creek Trail from the main campground.
Wilburn Branch, near the central area of the park, provides 1.8 miles of fishable waters and is designated a "Special Regulation Wild Trout Stream." It can be accessed via the Stamper's Branch or Upchurch Road trail.
Mill Creek, which has 1.1 miles of fishable waters, is the park's southeastern corner. It too is a "Special Regulation Wild Trout Stream." Get there by taking Highway 58 East from the park's entrance, then turning left on SR 742 (Mill Creek Rd.). Access to the park's portion of the creek is on the left near a grove of white pines, about half a mile down Mill Creek Rd.
Quebec Branch, in the park's northern region, has 1.1 miles of fishable waters, all of which is designated a "Special Regulation Wild Trout Stream." This waterway sometimes has low water. Access it from the Appalachian Trail at Massie Gap or by taking the Seed Orchard Road Trail from Hickory Ridge Campground.
Cabin Creek of the park's western area has 2.1 miles of fishable water, all of which is designated a Special Regulation Wild Trout Stream. Wild rainbow and native brook trout inhabit the waters here; it's not stocked. Take the Cabin Creek Trail at Massie Gap to get there.
HORSES
Horse trails and horse camping facilities are available here, but no horses are for rent. See the park's camping description for information about overnight horse facilities here. State law requires that visitors carry a copy of a negative Coggins report with each horse brought to the park.