Open fires are prohibited throughout the park from midnight to 4 p.m. through April 30 per the 4 p.m. Burning Law. This includes wood and charcoal. Gas is permissible. Campground fires are allowed during the restricted time if a camp host is on duty and signage to that effect is posted in the campground. Failure to observe the 4 p.m. Burning Law can result in a fine. Contact the Park Office for additional information.

Read Our Blogs

 

This is a shortlist of 5 Must-See Places in Virginia State Parks, while there is equally more incredible scenery and recreation to be found at all 38 Virginia State Parks, this lists just 5. We encourage you to share your favorites with us in the comments below.

Grayson Highlands State Park has so many special features it was not easy to just pinpoint one

Grayson Highlands State Park offers breathtaking scenery, hiking trails, and wild ponies

 

1. GRAYSON HIGHLANDS STATE PARK

The wild ponies are a boon when you visit this majestic Virginia State Park in the highest part of the state. The boulders, the trails, the scenery are par none.

2. HIGH BRIDGE TRAIL STATE PARK

The bridge itself if the centerpiece of this unique Virginia State Park that is 31 miles long, so after you ride or walk the trail and bridge take some time to explore the town of Farmville, This town embraces part of the trail and the park trail head and is a fun place to explore for the day. You can rent a bicycle made for two right there in Farmville at the High Bridge Bikes.

3. SHENANDOAH RIVER STATE PARK

If you wish to paddle the river, visit Down River Canoe Company.

4. FALSE CAPE STATE PARK

Nestled between Back Bay and the Atlantic Ocean, False Cape State Park is one of the last remaining undeveloped areas along the Atlantic coast, this state park has a unique arrival method, the Terra-Gator. This beach transporter will carry you through Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge to the park. Be sure to call for a reservation, click here for more info.

5. FAIRY STONE STATE PARK

The park named for the magical fairy stones that are found in the area, which can be found by hand digging at a specific spot from the park. If you are unable to find one they can sell you one already polished in the gift shop. Just outside the park you can day-trip the Blue Ridge Parkway to Mabry Mill, Floyd, wineries, festivals and more.

When you visit a Virginia State Park, be sure to ask your park staff to recommend their favorite places in and near the park. 

PARKS
CATEGORIES
SHARE THIS PAGE

If you have read the article and have a question, please email nancy.heltman@dcr.virginia.gov.

By Park