Department of Conservation and Recreation
Conserve. Protect. Enjoy.
Department of Conservation and Recreation
Hayfields State Park ribbon cutting on Oct. 20, 2025
The Virginia State Parks system has expanded to 44 parks with the opening of Hayfields State Park on Oct. 20. This addition marks a celebration of land conservation and community partnerships, offering visitors opportunities to explore the outdoors, connect with nature, and enjoy recreation in a scenic setting.
Hayfields State Park
Nestled between Bullpasture and Jack Mountains, at an elevation ranging from 1,800 to 2,400 feet, Hayfields State Park features a mix of heavily wooded mountain land, valley pastures and several structures, including an 1800s farmhouse.
The Bullpasture River flows through the property for about a mile and is home to numerous threatened and endangered species.
The 1,034-acre property was once working farmland, and its preservation ensures that this natural landscape will remain open and accessible for generations to come.
Secretary of Natural and Historic Resources Stefanie Taillon
The creation of Hayfields State Park is the result of collaboration between the Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation, Virginia State Parks and conservation partners who recognized the land’s natural and cultural value.
The property, previously known as Hayfields Reserve, was acquired by the Virginia Outdoors Foundation in 2017 with assistance from The Conservation Fund. In 2023, 994 acres were transferred to Virginia State Parks, with the remaining 40 acres transferred in August 2025.
Hiking Eagle’s Rest Trail
Hayfields State Park is being designed with visitors in mind. Whether you’re looking for a quiet hike or a place to bring a picnic blanket and enjoy the view, the park has something for everyone.
Looking toward the future, a master plan committee will be established to guide the park’s management and development. That process is anticipated to begin in early 2027.
As the park develops, visitors can look forward to additional amenities that will support outdoor education, nature interpretation and expanded trail networks.
1800s farm house at Hayfields State Park
While the park is open daily from dawn to dusk, the park office operates on limited hours. Visitors are encouraged to call 540-396-4489 to confirm office availability before their arrival.
Grab your hiking shoes, your sense of adventure and be one of the first to experience Virginia’s newest state park.
To learn more, please go to https://www.dcr.virginia.gov/state-parks/hayfields.
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State Parks
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