Virginia’s Mountain Lake Retreat — Green Pastures Recreation Area, George Washington National Forest, Seasonal Day-Use Area Managed by Douthat State Park, Fishing Lake and Blue Suck Run, Alleghany County Near Clifton Forge
Green Pastures Recreation Area is a seasonal day-use area in the George Washington National Forest near Clifton Forge, Alleghany County, Virginia. While located on U.S. Forest Service land, it is managed by the Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation as a satellite of Douthat State Park. Features include small fishing lake surrounded by mountain forest, access to Blue Suck Run for stream fishing, no boating allowed — shore fishing only, seasonal operation May through October (8 AM to dusk), and managed as satellite location of nearby Douthat State Park.
Mountain Fishing
The recreation area’s small mountain lake provides peaceful fishing in a forested setting. Shore fishing only is permitted (no boats), and anglers must hold a valid Virginia fishing license. Nearby Blue Suck Run offers additional stream fishing opportunities for native brook trout and stocked trout.
Connection to Douthat State Park
Green Pastures is managed as a satellite facility of Douthat State Park, one of Virginia’s original six state parks built by the Civilian Conservation Corps in the 1930s. This partnership between the Forest Service and DCR ensures the area is maintained during its seasonal operating period.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is it open?
Seasonally, typically first Friday in May through last Friday in October, 8 AM to dusk.
Can I boat on the lake?
No boating is allowed on the lake. Shore fishing only.
Plan Your Visit
Green Pastures connects to Virginia’s 850+ mile state park trail network. Virginia’s state parks were voted the best in the nation by readers of USA Today in 2020 and 2023. The Blue Ridge Parkway provides scenic driving access to the region. Shenandoah National Park’s Skyline Drive offers 105 miles of ridge-top driving with 75 overlooks. Virginia wine country (250+ wineries) surrounds the Blue Ridge region.
Insider Tips
Shenandoah Valley: Green Pastures sits in Virginia’s Shenandoah Valley — one of the most beautiful and historically significant valleys in America. Pro tip: The Valley was the “Breadbasket of the Confederacy” — Stonewall Jackson’s legendary Valley Campaign (1862) is studied in military academies worldwide. Caverns: The limestone Valley contains over 4,000 caves — more than any other comparable area in the eastern US.
Best Time to Visit
Fall: Shenandoah Valley foliage. Summer: Swimming and recreation. Spring: Dogwood and redbud blooms. Winter: Quiet valley scenery.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is the Shenandoah Valley famous?
The Shenandoah Valley is a 200-mile limestone valley between the Blue Ridge and Allegheny Mountains — one of America’s great landscapes. It played a crucial role in the Civil War (Jackson’s Valley Campaign, Sheridan’s devastation), contains 4,000+ caves including Luray Caverns, and the Shenandoah River has inspired songs and poetry. Skyline Drive and the Blue Ridge Parkway provide unforgettable views.
Wildlife & Nature
Green Pastures RA — provides recreation in Virginia’s countryside. The area’s meadows, ponds, and forest edge support white-tailed deer, eastern bluebirds, and red-tailed hawks. Wild turkeys forage in the open fields.
Nearby Attractions
Virginia communities — surrounding.
Make it a road trip: Pair a visit with Douthat State Park (a short drive away) or Natural Bridge State Park (a short drive away).
Camping reservations: Book campsites and cabins for Virginia state parks online at reservevaparks.com.
Park Location
Plan your gear for Green Pastures Recreation Area
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