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5 state parks you absolutely have to check out in Virginia
Virginia is an amazingly diverse state, within its boundaries there are mountain waterfalls, tidal rivers, lakes, forest and fields, and even the largest natural bay in the world.
Lucky for you, Virginia State Parks offers a front row seat to all of these, and more. There are 37 parks for you to choose from, so you're sure to find one that tickles your fancy.
1 | CHIPPOKES STATE PARK - Surry, Virginia
Explore the tidal waters of the Historic James River from Chippokes State Park
Just across the James River from historic Jamestown in beautiful Surry County, Chippokes is one of the oldest continually farmed plantations in the country. A working farm since 1619, the park offers modern recreational activities and a glimpse of life in a bygone era. Visitors tour the historic area with its antebellum mansion and outbuildings, stroll through formal gardens, and view antique equipment at the Chippokes Farm and Forestry Museum.
A walk along the shorelines of the James River has an otherworldly feel. There is a campground and a handful of cottage-like cabins to rent. Learn more here.
2 | HIGH BRIDGE TRAIL STATE PARK - Farmville, Va
At High Bridge you can look down over the sides of the bridge if you dare
High Bridge Trail is 31 miles long and ideally suited for hiking, bicycling and horseback riding. Once a rail bed, the trail is wide, level and generally flat. Its finely crushed limestone surface and dimensions make it easy to enjoy. The park’s centerpiece is the majestic High Bridge, which is more than 2,400 feet long and 125 feet above the Appomattox River. It is the longest recreational bridge in Virginia and among the longest in the United States.
If you don't have a bike you can rent one in town. Bring drinking water as none is available on the trail. Plan a picnic or enjoy a meal in the quaint Town of Farmville. Learn more here.
3 | DOUTHAT STATE PARK - Millboro, VA
You will discover a hiking and mountain biking paradise at Douthat
Amid some of Virginia's most breathtaking mountain scenery, visitors enjoy interpretive programs, four miles of stream fishing, a 50-acre lake stocked with trout, a sandy swimming beach with snack bar, boat rentals, a gift shop and camp store, cabins, and more than 43 miles of hiking, mountain biking and bridle trails. Plus, there are playgrounds, an amphitheater, picnic areas, tent and trailer camping, and a restaurant overlooking the lake. The park also has 32 cabins and three lodges that accommodate 15, 16 and 18 guests each.
You will have to hike the distance to get to this view from the Tuscarora Overlook, but the good news is you might even pass a waterfall to get here. Learn more here.
4 l CLAYTOR LAKE STATE PARK - Dublin, Va
The water is a natural draw at this park with so many recreational activities at Claytor Lake
Draw inspiration from thie lakeside setting, it is ideal for swimming, camping, hiking and picnicking. Claytor Lake is known for sport fishing and boating and the park has a full-service marina with docking slips, supplies, fuel, boat rentals and refreshments. The Water's Edge Meeting Facility is perfect for weddings, receptions and reunions, and wedding packages are available. Three lodges and 15 cabins overlook the 4,500-acre lake, offering visitors a scenic retreat. The historic Howe House has interactive exhibits describing the ecology of the lake and the surrounding areas.
This is one of the few parks that feature exclusively waterfront cabins with docks. Learn more here.
5 l SKY MEADOWS STATE PARK - Delaplane, Va
Prepare to be inspired by the refreshing beauty of Sky Meadows
Rich in history, this 1,864-acre park has scenic views, woodlands and the rolling pastures of a historic farm that captures the colonial through post-Civil War life of the Crooked Run Valley. Nature and history programs are offered year-round. Hiking, picnicking, fishing and primitive hike-in camping for families and groups are favorite activities in this peaceful getaway on the eastern side of the Blue Ridge Mountains. The park has 10.5 miles of bridle trails, 24 miles of hiking trails, 9 miles of bike trails and Appalachian Trail access.
You can say you have hiked the A.T. at this park, as there is about 2.45 miles of it here. Learn more here.
If you have read the article and have a question, please email nancy.heltman@dcr.virginia.gov.