Virginia State Parks

Welcome to the main page for Virginia State Parks. This page is designed to provide information related to the many state parks located in the state of Virginia. Below you will a list of all the state parks in Virginia along with the address of the parks. Click on the links below for the individual state parks where you can find detailed information specific to that park.

The State of Virginia Park Quick Facts:
41 State Parks | 5 State Forests | 3 National Historic Parks | 2 State Fish Hatcherys | 2 State Wildlife Management Areas | 2 State Fish Hatcherys | 2 National Parks | 2 National Forests | 1 National Historic Site | 1 National Wildlife Refuge | 1 National Recreation Area
So many beautiful resources in one State; Priceless

Virginia State Parks Outdoor Activities

Camping in Virginia State Parks

Home to a great many incredible camping sites, Virginia is undoubtedly a great place to visit if you’re looking to spend some time in the beautiful outdoors. For a rustic camping experience, head over to False Cape State Park, where sites are unreachable by vehicles and can only be accessed by foot, bicycle, or boat. Made for coastal camping, this park is definitely one of the best in Virginia although be sure to call ahead of time since they don’t allow walk-ins or reservations to be made on the same day.

On the other hand, serious and hardcore campers will love the Double Shoals and Baker Island sites found within New River Trail State Park, which is surrounded by beautiful natural landscapes and lacks modern amenities, such as showers and bathhouses. However, the views you’ll get from this spot are well worth the absence of creature comforts.

At Grayson Highlands State Park, guests can camp in the shadow of Virginia’s highest peak, Mount Rogers, which also serves as an entry point to the Appalachian Trail. Again, be prepared to really rough it out at this park as there are no bathrooms and showers available. More than that, though, no water is available on the sites from March to November.

Another great camping experience amid a picturesque mountain backdrop, Douthat State Park offers incredible sites, equipped with modern amenities. Nestled in the Allegheny Mountains, this destination provides a ton of recreational activities, making it the perfect spot for families and large groups.

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Hiking in Virginia State Parks

Many love taking on the laid-back and chill High Bridge Trail at High Bridge Trail State Park; this newly reopened structure is a marvel to look at, soaring nearly 180 feet above the Appomattox River and treating hikers to some of the best views in Virginia. If you’re looking to see the state like never before, then this spot is undoubtedly made for you.

A family-friendly route with little to minimal natural challenges, the 13-mile Little Mountain Trail System at Fairy Stone State Park meanders throughout this area of the state, offering an abundance of stunning views and breathtaking scenery. Keep your eyes peeled for the rare rock crystals scattered about the trail.

Meanwhile, Hungry Mother State Park features a 12-mile trail that loops around the 108-acre lake found within. However, more experienced hikers can opt for the 16-mile Molly’s Knob Trail instead, a route that is extremely narrow and difficult to accomplish. However, it will lead hikers to the summit of Molly’s Knob where they’ll be treated to one-of-a-kind views of Virginia.

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Backpacking in Virginia State Parks

A lot of residents consider the 25-mile backpacking trails found in Virginia’s Mount Rogers High Country to be the best in the state, allowing individuals to explore high elevations, spruce-fir forests, rock spires, and more. This route will take hikers through a whole slew of wilderness areas, as well as Grayson Highlands State Park. This is a must-experience for all those interested in learning more about this part of Virginia.

At False Cape State Park, the 18-mile hiking trail found within is extremely popular among backpackers, both residents and visitors alike. In the evenings, backpackers can pitch their tents along an Atlantic Ocean barrier island, making it ideal for those wishing for unique backpacking experience.

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Fishing in Virginia State Parks

The best fishing hole in Virginia, Leesylvania State Park stretches out into the Potomac, which means that there are plenty of opportunities to catch bass, catfish, and perch here. Additionally, anglers are also permitted to use watercraft vehicles to access deeper waters.

Hunting in Virginia State Parks

Archery hunters can take their skills to the next level at Pocahontas State Park, where an archery hunt is open to those who managed to obtain a permit for hunting in the state’s special, designated areas. Only a total of 150 passes or permits are issued every year so be sure to snag one for yourself!

Other incredible hunting areas are found in Chippokes Plantation State Park, which hosts a traditional hunting experience every year on December 5. The park is home to a Special Southern Heritage Hunt, which will allow hunters to take a step back in time and experience how the pursuit of the game was done in olden days. Keep in mind that reservations may be made up to one year in advance so call as early as possible to preserve your spot.

A hunting area managed along with the Potomac River National Wildlife Refuge Complex, the hunting opportunities at Mason Neck State Park are wild – pun intended. Top-notch amenities, quick permit turn-around, and a bonus day geared towards youth hunters all mean that the park draws in thousands of guests and hunters each week, especially during the open season.

Day Use Areas in Virginia State Parks

There are a ton of phenomenal picnic destinations in Virginia, thanks to the state’s largely untouched natural landscapes and abundance of diverse wildlife. At First Landing State Park, guests can choose to spread their blankets and take their meals either amid a dense and secluded forest or on the shores of the beach. Regardless of which one you end up picking, both spots will undoubtedly make for an unforgettable afternoon.

Another great picnicking destination is Occoneechee State Park, named after the Native American tribe who once lived in the area. The park’s well-maintained and well-equipped day-use area features playgrounds, as well as a number of multi-use trails that are perfect for walking off the calories.

Located in Bentonville, Shenandoah River State Park combines water, mountains, and sprawling fields. Having a picnic here is a must, especially if you’re a big fan of spots that aren’t crowded and loud.

Biking in Virginia State Parks

There is a whole host of challenging and incredible mountain biking trails found in Virginia, allowing riders to fully explore the beautiful state while taking their skills to the next level. For instance, the over 40 miles of singletrack trails within Douthat State Park will take guests through some of the most breathtaking scenic viewpoints in Virginia, ascending up a mountainous landscape with a spine-tingling descent. One of the most well-known routes here is the three-mile Blue Suck Falls Loop, which is extremely challenging but culminates in a phenomenal and beautiful view of a waterfall.

Located in Chesterfield, Pocahontas State Park also has a lot of great mountain biking trails, nearly all of which are part of the International Mountain Bicycling Association and the Richmond Regional Ride Center. Routes here vary according to skill and experience level; those who have a bit more experience under their belts would do well to take on the ten-mile Morgan Trail System, renowned for its tight turns, narrow paths, and rocky, root-filled tread.

Tracks found within York River State Park range from beginner to expert, featuring a variety of elevation changes, terrain, and natural challenges. Beginners will definitely enjoy the short and sweet 38-mile Black Bear Run while more advanced riders will enjoy the six-mile Marl Ravine Trail, narrow singletrack that features steep ravines and a ton of other natural challenges.

Boating in Virginia State Parks

The abundance of large and incredible bodies of water in Virginia makes it the best destination to go to if you’re an avid boater or an enthusiast for any kind of watercraft vehicle. At Lake Anna State Park, explore Virginia’s third-largest lake through a motorboat or a kayak. Whichever one you choose, you’re guaranteed to have a great and memorable experience.

Boating may also be done on the John H. Kerr Reservoir, which can be accessed either through Occoneechee State Park or Staunton River State Park. Once the sun has set, take in a breathtaking view of Clarksville Bridge, illuminated by thousands of lights that reflect off the water’s surface. This is truly a sight to behold and one that you’ll most likely never forget.

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Birdwatching in Virginia State Parks

Home to one of the most important fall hawk-watch sites in the entire United States, Kiptopeke State Park is definitely a must-visit for Birding enthusiasts. Observations start on September 1 every year, allowing Bird-watchers to catch incredible glimpses of the Osprey, the Broad-winged Hawk, and more.

To add to that, experts say that the site of the park is a great place for fall migrant birds so expect to see a ton of them if you ever head down there.

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Rock Climbing and Mountaineering in Virginia State Parks

Those new to the world of rock climbing would do well to check out North Bend State Park, which offers rappelling and rock climbing programs designed to improve your skills in the sport. However, the park also offers a number of developed crags and sport routes that are ideal for trad, rope climbing, and bouldering. This is definitely a non-negotiable stop for all those visiting Virginia.

Museums in Virginia State Parks

Without a doubt, history buffs should visit First Landing State Park, which is the site where English colonists first landed in 1607. The park offers a whole slew of history programs and courses, allowing guests and even state residents to learn more about this spot’s fascinating history.

Located amid the Blue Ridge Mountains, Sky Meadows State Park is another historical destination, showing what life was like at the Mount Bleak Farm House from Colonial Times to the Civil War. Besides this, they also feature several history programs that visitors can partake in to learn more about American history and the people from a bygone era.

At Occoneechee State Park, guests can learn more about Virginia’s Native American history at the visitor center and museum found within. Even if you aren’t that into history, this is still an important spot to visit, one that will help you gain more insight into the past, present, and future of Native Americans.

Winter Sports in Virginia State Parks

Those itching to do some cross-country skiing will definitely find Blackwater Falls State Park to their liking, where over ten miles of scenic and well-kept trails are found. Explore this picturesque part of Virginia through skis and over a deep blanket of snow.

On the other hand, those in the mood for downhill skiing, snow tubing, and ice skating should head over to Canaan Valley Resort State Park, situated amid the Allegheny Mountains. The activities at this park are so fun and enjoyable, that you’ll most probably never want to leave!

Complete Virginia State Park List and Addresses

Here is a complete list of all the state parks in Virginia along with the address for each park. Enjoy all that Virginia has to offer for outdoor actives and natural beauty.

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