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.

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Top 5 things to do at Fairy Stone State Park this fall

By Starr AndersonPosted October 30, 2023, Original Publish Date September 18, 2020

 

Fall is in full swing, and if the mountains are calling, head to Fairy Stone State Park, where you will find many opportunities for you and your loved ones to explore, relax and take in the views.

Fairy Stone
This fall, you can take in these breathtaking views while visiting Fairy Stone State Park

Top 5 things to do at Fairy Stone State Park this fall

  1. Stay in a cabin
  2. Experience a night's stay in a yurt
  3. Get out on a trail and explore
  4. Hunt for Fairy Stones
  5. Have a picnic

1. Stay in a cabin

This is cabin 2. Stay in a cozy cabin next to the water this fall at Fairy Stone State Park, Va
Stay in a cozy cabin next to the water this fall

Fall is the perfect time to stay in a cabin. The weather is cooler, and the views are gorgeous, with all the leaves changing colors. Stay in a place where you leave your worries behind.

Did I mention that it's considered the off-season between Labor Day and Memorial Day? That means rental rates are even more affordable. So, pack your bags and get cozy by the fireplace at a cabin at Fairy Stone. Learn more about the cabins and make a reservation online or by calling 1-800-933-PARK.

2. Stay a few nights in a yurt 

Stay in a yurt in the woods this fall to experience something new.
Staying in a yurt creates a unique stay at Virginia State Parks

Another great option this fall is to stay in a yurt. Fairy Stone has four yurts, and two of them have parking. The other two are off the road, and you must hike your gear a little.

The yurts are a cross between a cabin and a tent. So, if you don't want to stay in a tent, but want to experience something different from a cabin, then the yurt is perfect for you. Learn more about campgrounds and yurts at this woodsy park or call 1-800-933-PARK.

3. Get out on a trail and explore

Hike and explore some of the different trails that Fairy Stone State Park has to offer.
Pack your hiking shoes and explore a trail

This park has many hiking, biking and equestrian trails for you to find your adventure on this fall. While enjoying the outdoors, you can see all the beautiful colors of the leaves around the lake and in the mountains.

Words can't describe the breathtaking views in this park. It is a view that you won't want to miss. To plan your hikes, you may want to check out the park's trail guide.  

4. Look for Fairy Stones

A fun park program is the Fairy Stone Hunt
Hunt for fairy stones at the park

One of the most well-known and popular things to do is hunt for Fairy Stones. These stones are formed and found within the park's boundary. The stone crosses or "staurolite" are composed of iron, aluminum and silicate.

You can look for the stones by yourself or join a ranger for a guided Fairy Stone Hunt. Here's a hint: The best place to find fairy stones is around tree roots, which seem to come to the surface in heavy rain. 

5. Have a picnic

Enjoy a picnic in the great outdoors.
Enjoy the great outdoors at Fairy Stone State Park by packing a lunch.

In addition to picnic tables at campsites, cabins and yurts, private picnic shelters are scattered around the park. These shelters can be reserved online or by calling 1-800-933-PARK. When they're not reserved, they're available on a first-come, first-served basis.

So, get your picnic basket and cooler ready, and take in the views at one of the park's many beautiful picnicking locations.


if you're ready to plan your fall visit to Fairy Stone, click here to learn more about the park's location and amenities.

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

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