Hayfields State Park
Highland County’s River Park — Bullpasture River Fishing, Mountain Biking & Virginia’s “Little Switzerland”
Hayfields State Park is a day-use park in Highland County, Virginia — one of the most remote and least-populated counties east of the Mississippi River, known locally as “Virginia’s Little Switzerland” for its rugged mountain terrain and pastoral beauty. Located near the community of McDowell, the park provides access to the Bullpasture River and sits within a landscape of rolling hay fields, forested ridges, and some of the most unspoiled mountain scenery in the Appalachians.
The park offers four miles of easy-to-moderate trails for hiking and mountain biking, fly fishing and wade fishing on the Bullpasture River, and a quiet setting that feels worlds away from Virginia’s more developed state parks. This is a low-key, backcountry park for visitors who value solitude, trout fishing, and the simple beauty of Highland County’s mountain valleys.
Things to Do
Fishing — Bullpasture River
The Bullpasture River is the park’s primary draw for anglers:
- Species: Trout (stocked and wild), smallmouth bass, rock bass
- Style: Fly fishing and wade fishing in a mountain stream setting
- License: Virginia freshwater fishing license and trout stamp required
- Character: Clear, cold mountain water flowing through hay fields and forested valleys
Hiking & Mountain Biking
Four miles of trails wind through the park’s meadows and wooded areas:
- Easy to moderate terrain — suitable for families and casual riders
- Views of the surrounding Highland County mountains and pastoral farmland
- Wildflower displays in spring and early summer
Picnicking & Nature
Quiet picnic areas with views of the Bullpasture River valley. Birding in the riparian corridor and surrounding forests — Highland County supports diverse Appalachian bird species.
Trails
| Trail | Distance | Difficulty | Highlights |
|---|---|---|---|
| Park Trail Network | ~4 mi total | Easy–Moderate | Meadow and forest; Bullpasture River views; mountain biking; wildflowers |
Best Time to Visit
| Season | Highlights | Considerations |
|---|---|---|
| Spring (Apr–Jun) | ⭐ PEAK: Trout stocking; wildflowers; Highland County Maple Festival (Mar); ideal mountain biking | Variable weather; call ahead for trail/park status; black flies |
| Summer (Jun–Aug) | Warm-weather fishing; full trail access; Highland County stays 10–15°F cooler than lowlands | Remote location — bring supplies; limited cell service |
| Fall (Sep–Nov) | ⭐ Appalachian foliage; cool hiking; fall trout fishing; sheep & cattle festivals | Shorter days; park office limited hours |
| Winter (Dec–Mar) | Snow-dusted mountains; Maple Festival prep; extreme solitude | Cold and exposed; limited facilities; roads may be slick |
Visitor Tips
- Day-use only: No camping at Hayfields State Park. The park is open dawn to dusk. The park office operates on limited hours — call 540-396-4489 before traveling to confirm the park is accessible.
- Remote location: Highland County is one of the least populated counties east of the Mississippi River. Limited cell service, no nearby gas stations or grocery stores. Come prepared with supplies, water, and a full tank of gas.
- “Little Switzerland”: Highland County’s nickname reflects its Swiss-like mountain terrain and pastoral beauty. The drive to Hayfields through the Bullpasture Gorge is scenic in itself — allow extra time for the winding mountain roads.
- Maple Festival: Highland County’s famous Maple Festival (typically March) draws thousands to the area for maple syrup tastings, pancake breakfasts, and mountain crafts. The park makes an excellent day-trip addition if you’re visiting during the festival.
- Trout stamp: Fishing on the Bullpasture River requires both a Virginia freshwater fishing license and a trout stamp. Purchase both before arriving — there are no license vendors in the immediate area.
Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of fishing is available at Hayfields State Park?
Hayfields State Park provides access to the Bullpasture River, which supports trout fishing (both stocked and wild), smallmouth bass, and rock bass. Fly fishing and wade fishing are the primary styles. You’ll need a Virginia freshwater fishing license and a trout stamp. The clear, cold mountain water flowing through Highland County’s pastoral valleys makes this a scenic and productive fishing destination.
Where is Highland County Virginia and why is it called Little Switzerland?
Highland County is located in the Allegheny Highlands of western Virginia, near the West Virginia border. It earned the nickname “Virginia’s Little Switzerland” for its rugged mountain terrain, pastoral valleys, and Swiss-like scenery. With fewer than 2,200 residents, it is one of the least populated counties east of the Mississippi River. The county is famous for its annual Maple Festival in March and for offering some of the most unspoiled mountain scenery in the Appalachians.
Last updated: April 2026
