In the 1930s, one of the most influential programs in the United States was the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC). While the CCC was vital in the development of Virginia State Parks, the impact could be felt throughout the Commonwealth. Virginia’s state parks were only one of the projects undertaken by the CCC.

During this time, there was an initiative to create an area of recreation for one specific population. The National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP) led a campaign that resulted in the one and only African American recreation areas. This recreation area was hosted by the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) and was likely one of the only areas in the country dedicated to the recreation of African American citizens during the segregation era. The Green Pastures Recreation Area opened on June 15, 1940.

According to Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources, the name was meant to pair with Virginia State Parks’ sites already in the area. Green Pastures Recreation Area featured a small lake and sandy beach, a bath house, picnic shelter toilet facilities, play area and trails.

In 1968, the recreation area was renamed Longdale like the surrounding town. In 2017, the recreation area had to be closed due to budget constraints.

While closed, the area was reclaimed by multispecies forest, streams, lakes, open fields, mammals, insects, amphibians and reptiles. The reopening and dedication of the Green Pastures Recreation Area and historic signing of a Shared Stewardship agreement between the U.S. Department of Agriculture and the Commonwealth of Virginia took place on Friday, September 24, 2021.

As of 2021, the Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR) took on a 30-year lease with the U.S. Forest Service for the area. Under the agreement, 133 acres are preserved, maintained and operated by DCR as a satellite of Douthat State Park. Green Pastures Recreation Area is approximately 11 miles from Douthat.

Restoring the area is a work in progress. Today, the front area resembles a new park with the CCC picnic area and lake. Beyond the front area, things still show some signs of the naturally overgrown area, however, this area is certainly worth exploring.

The natural beauty of the area can’t be hidden. Photos by Tina Eisenhower Carter.

Green Pastures Recreation Area is open seasonally 8 a.m. – dusk beginning the first Friday in May until the last Friday of October each year. The park is open to all visitors. Come out and explore.

Green Pastures is open for everyone to enjoy.

How to get to Green Pastures:

Physical Address: 201 Green Pasture Trail, Clifton Forge, VA 24422 [click on address for Google Maps directions]
From Clifton Forge, head east on US-60 Business E/Main St, turn right onto SR 632/Longdale Furnace Rd, continue onto VA-269 E/Longdale Furnace Rd, turn right onto F271/Tri County Rd, slight right onto Green Pasture Trail, and follow it to the parking area.