Shot Tower Historical State Park
Shot Tower Historical State Park is a public state park in Virginia near Austinville in Austinville County. Spanning 10 acres and established in 1968, this park offers a peaceful retreat into nature for visitors of all ages.
Quick Facts
| State | Virginia |
| Nearest City | Austinville |
| County | Austinville |
| Park Size | 10 acres |
| Established | 1968 |
| Google Rating | ⭐ 4.5/5 (400 reviews) |
| Accessibility | Shot Tower grounds and restrooms are accessible. The Shot Tower is not accessible, however photos of the tower and views are on display. |
Location & Getting There
Shot Tower Historical State Park is located near Austinville, Virginia. The park’s coordinates are 36.8844, -80.8531.
Things to Do
Virginia state parks span from the Blue Ridge Mountains to the Chesapeake Bay, offering remarkable geographic diversity. Activities include hiking along Appalachian ridgelines and through lush mountain forests, swimming at lake and river beaches, fishing in mountain streams and tidal waters, camping in diverse settings, kayaking coastal rivers and mountain lakes, mountain biking, horseback riding, rock climbing, and exploring centuries of American history from colonial Jamestown through the Civil War.
Best Time to Visit
Fall (October) is extraordinary, as Virginia’s Blue Ridge and Shenandoah Valley produce stunning foliage. Spring (April–May) brings wildflowers and comfortable hiking weather. Summer (June–August) is peak season for lake swimming and family camping. Winter is mild enough for hiking in most of the state, with occasional snow adding beauty to mountain parks.
Visitor Tips
Virginia state parks charge a parking fee ($7-$10 per vehicle) on weekends and holidays from spring through fall, though weekday visits are often free. Camping and cabin reservations through dcr.virginia.gov. Virginia’s state parks are known for their well-maintained cabin and lodge accommodations. Popular parks like Shenandoah River and First Landing fill quickly for summer weekends.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to visit Virginia state parks?
Virginia state parks charge a parking fee of $5-$10 per vehicle on weekends (May-September). Weekday visits are often free. An annual parking pass is available for $85. Some parks like Shenandoah River are free year-round.
What are the best state parks in the Shenandoah Valley?
Top Shenandoah Valley parks include Natural Bridge (215-foot natural limestone arch), Shenandoah River, Douthat (mountain lake swimming), and Staunton River Battlefield (Civil War history).
Can I see the Natural Bridge at a Virginia state park?
Yes, Natural Bridge State Park preserves the 215-foot-tall natural limestone arch, one of the most iconic geological formations in the eastern US. A short trail leads under and around the bridge with interpretive exhibits.
Are there beaches at Virginia state parks?
Yes, several Virginia state parks offer beach access including First Landing (Chesapeake Bay), Kiptopeke (bay beach), Westmoreland (Potomac River cliffs), and several mountain parks with freshwater lake beaches.
Explore More Virginia State Parks
Shot Tower Historical State Park is one of many outstanding state parks in Virginia. Discover more parks in our Best State Parks in Virginia guide, or use our Park Finder to search by activity, location, or features.
Wildlife & Nature
Shot Tower HSP — preserves a 75-foot limestone tower built in 1807 to manufacture lead shot by dropping molten lead 150 feet (75 feet above ground + 75 feet into a shaft below) into water. One of only three shot towers remaining in the US. The park’s New River overlook and forest support red-tailed hawks, wild turkeys, and white-tailed deer.
Nearby Attractions
Austinville — adjacent — site of the historic lead mines that supplied ammunition during the Revolution and Civil War. New River Trail SP — adjacent. Foster Falls — 2 miles south.
Park Location
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