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A Closer Look: a Visit to Three Virginia State Parks in Central VA

By Shellie AnnePosted July 05, 2011

The News and Advance visit three popular Virginia State Parks closest to Lynchburg.

A closer look: James River State Park

1,500 acres of relaxation just an hour from Lynchburg

James River State Park - the tye river overlook photo by 460 roadrunner

Tye River Overlook; James River State Park. Photo courtesy of 460 roadrunner

Just an hour away from the city, you can live out your western fantasies, sleeping under the stars next to a smoldering campfire and your trusty steed.

James River State Park near Gladstone in Buckingham County is one of only four Virginia state parks to offer stables for overnight horse camping. Three more across the state are expected to open this fall. With a newly opened horse-camping site and 15 miles of trails designed with equestrians in mind, the park is a popular destination for horseback riders.

Read this article with photos here from the News and Advance.

A closer look: Holliday Lake State Park

A "well-kept secret" in Appomattox County

Holliday Lake State Park. Photo courtesy of eodrum

Around 7:30 at night every other Saturday, nature enthusiasts slip into canoes and paddle out onto Holliday Lake in search of barred owls.

Spotting them, or getting them to reply to owl calls, can be hit-or-miss, but Holliday Lake State Park Manager Robert Chapman said the every-other-weekend excursion is one of the park’s more popular boating activities.

Nestled within the Appomattox Buckingham State Forest not far off Virginia 24, the park is secluded enough that it’s not overflowing during the week. But on popular weekends, it can experience a surge of visitors.

“I like to think of this place as a well-kept secret,” Chapman said. “On weekends, people seem to find it.”

Read this article with photos here from the News and Advance.

A closer look: Smith Mountain Lake State Park

Smith Mountain Lake State Park beach

After lunchtime during a gorgeous summer day on the north shore of Smith Mountain Lake, “Margaritaville” by Jimmy Buffet plays in the background as roughly 100 people enjoy the beach.

They soak up the sun and festive, pool-like atmosphere in the confines of the Smith Mountain Lake State Park, which offers a rare spot for public swimming at the lake.

The park in Bedford County, approximately 40 miles from Lynchburg and Roanoke, drew close to 40,000 to its beach last year.

Read this article with photos here from the News and Advance.

Come out and join the fun at your favorite Virginia State Park! There are 35 Virginia State Parks to choose from, so join in the 75th Anniversary celebration at a park near you.

Click here for a map of all Virginia State Parks.

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