Virginia Department of Conservation and RecreationAn official website of the Commonwealth of Virginia Here's how you knowAn official websiteHere's how you know
Department of Conservation and Recreation
Grayson Highlands State Park recently expanded its protected boundaries with the acquisition of two new parcels of land. These additions not only increase the park’s total acreage to 4,518 acres but also enhance efforts to preserve the region’s unique ecosystems, scenic beauty and diverse wildlife habitats. The expansion reflects a continued commitment to safeguarding the natural and cultural resources of Southwest Virginia for future generations.
The 11.7-acre Lankford tract is completely undeveloped and forested. It lies along Grayson Highlands’ southern boundary, west of Route 58, and provides additional buffer to more than 1,300 linear feet of the park's existing property line.
Residential development is on the rise along Route 58, directly south of Grayson Highlands, so securing the Lankford tract allows DCR to protect the scenic and natural resource values in the area.
One of the park's existing parcels buffered by Lankford is the AVP Boulder Field, which was acquired in December 2022. The AVP Boulder Field is a small but popular area used by rock climbers due to its unique rock outcroppings. It will now be better protected and supported with the addition of the Lankford tract.
The Lankford acquisition was made possible due to the previous owners, Jay Lankford and Annette Bradsher, who chose to donate the property to the park. With its size, frontage along Route 58, potential build sites and proximity to the park, Annette and Jay could have easily sold this property to a private developer or one of the other adjoining owners for future improvement.
We extend our heartfelt gratitude to Jay and Annette for their generous donation that will help protect and preserve Grayson Highland State Park. We also honor the memory of Jay, who passed away in December 2024, and recognize his lasting legacy through this contribution.
The 5.1-acre Campbell tract is currently undeveloped, completely wooded and contains steep topography throughout. It’s situated along the northeastern boundary of Grayson Highlands State Park and is surrounded on three sides by existing park property and Big Wilson Creek on the fourth.
Well before the park was established, the Campbell tract was occupied as a homesite with a small cabin and garden. This property, along with others nearby including a church, were accessed by a network of long since abandoned dirt roads.
Today, the Campbell tract is inaccessible by vehicle and difficult to reach even on foot through the park. However, Briar Run Lane, on the east bank of Big Wilson Creek, overlooks the property.
The Campbell tract was acquired from the Campbell family, who owned it since 1964. This purchase improves the security and management of the park’s boundary along Big Wilson Creek and eliminates the risk of incompatible development.
We sincerely thank the Campbell family for their partnership in preserving Grayson Highlands State Park. Their support plays a vital role in protecting the park’s unique landscape and ensuring its natural beauty for future generations.
To learn more about Grayson Highlands State Park or to start planning your visit, please go to www.virginiastateparks.gov/grayson-highlands.
Categories
Conservation | State Parks
Tags
state parks
