You won't have to go far to get back to nature in Central Virginia, at Twin Lakes State Park you'll find plenty of outdoor recreation for the whole family. This 548-acre, historic park offers many cultural, environmental and recreational activities. Swimming, fishing, hiking, boating and lakeside picnicking, camping and cabin stays make this park in the heart of Virginia special.

We can think of five reasons you'll love Twin Lakes State Park right off the bat, of course there are many more, but these are a few that our visitors rave about.

1. Connect to Nature

Head outside for fresh air and a change of scenery on a park trail

Explore the natural settings in our park. We also have live snake programs. Hold a snake. “Sal” the red corn snake is quite social and does not mind interacting with park visitors.

You’ll most likely have at least one turtle sighting. Visit the park’s Nature Nook and meet “Myrtle” the red eared slider and other park creatures.

2. Immerse in Lake Life

Twin Lakes is a great place to cool off this summer

Swimming in Goodwin Lake is popular and inexpensive. It is a great place to take the whole family for the day. Hang out in the sand, enjoy the water toys, do a cannon ball off the platform. Don’t forget to stop in “The Spot” for hand dipped ice cream, concession food and souvenirs. 

Or Explore at your own pace. Rent a canoe, kayak, or rowboat. You have two lakes to explore. Goodwin Lake also offers paddleboards, paddleboats. There are many fishing spots, just waiting for your fist story to come to life. At the lakes, expect to see river cooters, painted turtles, beavers, muskrats, otters, great blue heron, osprey or perhaps a bald eagle.

3. Discover History and Culture

Our newest addition, a six bedroom fully appointed The Bowen Lodge

Did you know that Twin Lakes State Park used to be two separate parks? Up until the Civil Rights movement, one of those parks, Prince Edward State Park for Negroes was the only Virginia State Park to offer recreational opportunities for people of color. Thousands traveled from all over the mid-Atlantic region in order to enjoy a park free from discrimination. In 1976 the parks merged then in 1986 the site was renamed Twin Lakes State Park. 

Our newest addition, a six bedroom fully appointed “Bowen Lodge”, is named in honor of Willie Bowen who started his career at Twin Lakes State Park in 1968. He became a manager at HLSP then became Virginia State Park’s first black District Manager. It has been said that ‘he was a pioneer for parks, being in the right place at the right time to bring the park to the 20th century’. More about overnight accommodations here.

4. Uncover a secret

You can rent a canoe, kayak, or rowboat as you have two lakes to explore

A happy camper recently told me “I will not tell anyone about this park, I want to keep it a secret.” Many of our returning campers feel the same way. They enjoy the serenity the park offers, whether you are lake exploring, enjoying a campfire, or chilling out in your cabin.

5. Meet a Ranger

 Jack Wagstaff, Park Interpreter is eager to share his knowledge of the park

The Rangers are always friendly and ready to help.

Sign up for the popular guided canoe tour or try a new skill such as archery.  Meet for one of our scheduled ranger hikes to learn about park history, native trees and wildlife. Check out cool and usually free nature and craft programs here.

Ready to visit?  Check out more info here or make your overnight reservation here, or call 800-933-7275.

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