Fairy Stone State Park

By America's State Parks Editorial TeamApril 18, 2022 · Updated May 17, 2026

✝️ Home of the Legendary Fairy Stones — Discover rare cross-shaped crystals, swim in a pristine mountain lake, and explore one of Virginia’s original state parks, opened in 1936.

There’s something almost magical about Fairy Stone State Park. Tucked into the Blue Ridge foothills of Patrick County, this 4,741-acre forested retreat is famous for something you won’t find anywhere else in the world—fairy stones. These rare staurolite crystals naturally form in the shape of Roman or Maltese crosses, and for centuries, people have believed them to bring good luck. Visitors come from across the country to hunt for these geological treasures in designated areas, taking home a piece of Virginia’s natural mystery.

But the fairy stones are just the beginning. The park’s 168-acre lake offers excellent fishing and swimming, with a sandy beach patrolled by seasonal lifeguards. Ten miles of multi-use trails wind through the Little Mountain system, leading to hidden waterfalls and panoramic overlooks. And the campgrounds and cabins—some original CCC construction from the 1930s—provide the kind of rustic comfort that modern resorts can’t replicate. Whether you’re here for a weekend of treasure hunting or a week of mountain relaxation, Fairy Stone delivers an experience unlike any other Virginia park.

Quick Facts

• 📍 Location: Patrick County, Virginia (Blue Ridge foothills)
• 📐 Size: 4,741 acres (168-acre Fairy Stone Lake)
• ⛰️ Highlight: Rare cross-shaped staurolite “fairy stones”
• 🚗 From Roanoke: 1 hour via US-58 W
• 🎫 Admission: Parking fee $7/day (weekdays) – $10/day (weekends)

Best Season to Visit

Fairy Stone is a four-season destination, but each season offers a different experience. Summer brings swimming, lifeguard-protected beaches, and the best conditions for fairy stone hunting. Fall transforms the surrounding Blue Ridge into a canvas of orange and gold—perfect for trail riding and photography. The park’s elevation keeps temperatures mild even in summer heat, though winter visitors should be prepared for occasional snow.

Entrance Fees & Passes

Virginia State Parks charge parking fees that vary by day of the week. An annual pass is excellent value if you plan multiple visits. Camping, cabin, and equipment rental fees are separate.

Hunting for Fairy Stones

The fairy stones that give this park its name are staurolite crystals—iron aluminum silicate minerals that naturally form in the shape of crosses. They’ve been cherished for centuries as good luck charms, and Virginia legend claims they’re the crystallized tears of fairies who wept when they learned of Christ’s crucifixion.

The park maintains a designated fairy stone hunting area where visitors can search for these treasures. The best spots are in the creek beds and exposed soil near the main hunting area. Bring a small garden trowel or sturdy stick for digging, and be prepared to get muddy. The most perfectly formed crosses are rare—most finds are partial or irregular—but even imperfect stones make meaningful souvenirs.

Tips for finding fairy stones:

• Look for the distinctive brown color and cross shape
• Search after rain when stones are washed clean
• Creek beds and road cuts are prime locations
• Take only what you’ll treasure—leave some for others

Top Trails

The Little Mountain Trail System offers 10 miles of pathways through varied terrain—from lakeside strolls to challenging ridge climbs. Most trails are open to hikers, mountain bikers, and horseback riders, making this a true multi-use destination. The waterfall trail is the signature hike, but the lake shore path is perfect for families with younger children.

Camping & Cabins

Fairy Stone offers some of the most charming accommodations in Virginia’s state park system. The rustic cabins, many built by the Civilian Conservation Corps in the 1930s, have been carefully maintained while adding modern comforts. They’re nestled in the woods with screened porches and stone fireplaces—the kind of places where you’ll want to linger with a book and a cup of coffee.

The campground is equally appealing, with sites scattered through mature forest rather than lined up in sterile rows. Many sites are lakeside or have lake views. The equestrian campground serves trail riders with tie stalls and easy access to the Little Mountain system.

Reserve at Reserve America. Summer weekends and fall foliage season book months in advance—plan ahead!

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Wildlife & Nature

The park’s mixed hardwood and pine forests support abundant wildlife. White-tailed deer are common sightings, especially at dawn and dusk near the lake edges. The lake itself attracts herons, kingfishers, and occasional bald eagles. In spring, wildflowers carpet the forest floor, and the park’s elevation brings mountain species not found in Virginia’s lowlands.

Safety Information

🎒 What to Pack

Fairy Stone Hunting

• ✅ Small garden trowel or sturdy stick
• ✅ Old clothes you don’t mind getting muddy
• ✅ Bag or container for your finds
• ✅ Patience and a keen eye!

Lake Activities

• ✅ Swimsuit and towel
• ✅ Sunscreen
• ✅ Fishing gear and VA license
• ✅ Picnic supplies

Getting There

Address: 967 Fairystone Lake Drive, Stuart, VA 24171

• From Roanoke (1 hour): US-220 S to US-58 W toward Stuart
• From Greensboro, NC (1.25 hours): US-220 N to US-58 W
• From Washington, DC (4.5 hours): I-81 S to US-58 W

GPS Coordinates: 36.7892° N, 80.1046° W

Nearby Attractions

• Philpott Lake (20 min) — Large reservoir, excellent bass fishing
• Blue Ridge Parkway (30 min) — Scenic driving, overlooks
• Mabry Mill (45 min) — Historic watermill, photography icon
• Floyd, VA (45 min) — Friday Night Jamboree, artisan shops

Frequently Asked Questions

What are fairy stones and can I really find them?

Fairy stones are staurolite crystals that naturally form in cross shapes. Yes, you can find them! The park has a designated hunting area. They’re brown, typically 1/2 to 2 inches across, and range from perfect crosses to partial formations. Bring digging tools and patience.

Is there good swimming at Fairy Stone?

Excellent! The park has a sandy beach on the 168-acre lake with seasonal lifeguards (Memorial Day to Labor Day). A grassy lawn area provides space for sunbathing and picnicking. Swimming is restricted to the beach area only.

Are horses allowed in the park?

Yes! Fairy Stone has a dedicated equestrian campground with 6 sites including tie stalls. Most of the Little Mountain Trail System is open to horseback riding—over 8 miles of multi-use trails.

Are dogs allowed at Fairy Stone?

Yes, dogs are welcome on leash (max 6 feet) throughout the park. They’re not permitted on the swimming beach or inside cabins.