This series will focus on Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) at our Virginia State Parks. Part 2 asks the question of where is the Staunton River State Park, and why is it not near Staunton Virginia?

Staunton River State Park sunset

Staunton River State Park equestrian tails

Water view cabin at Staunton River State Park

WHY IS THE STAUNTON RIVER STATE PARK NOT NEAR STAUNTON VIRGINIA?

Pat Eastwood, Visitor Services Specialist explains: “How did Staunton River State park get the name Staunton River, when it is nowhere near Staunton, Virginia?” Answer: "Because the park is named for the Staunton River. This is actually a section of the Roanoke River that was named after a Captain Staunton, who was a pre-Revolutionary officer instrumental in protecting early settlers from Indian attacks. These settlers were so appreciative of Capt. Staunton; they named this section of the river after him."

Learn more about Staunton River State Park here.

The park was recognized in 2007 as a National Historic Landmark and a Virginia Historic Landmark. Many structures in the park, including the cabins, pool-house and picnic shelters, are little changed from when they were built by the Civilian Conservation Corps in the early 1930s. Tucked away in south central Virginia, the park lies between the Dan and Staunton Rivers at the threshold of Buggs Island Lake (also known as Kerr Reservoir). The largest lake in Virginia is only one of the park’s many attractions, which include an Olympic size pool with a 70-foot waterslide, a smaller log slide and the Pollywog Pond, which is a water playground for children (there is a size limit on this pool). The shaded campgrounds, rustic cabins, picturesque picnic shelters, well-maintained nature trails, and plenty of exciting outdoor opportunities for the whole family make Staunton River State Park the perfect place for your vacation.

Visit nearby Staunton River Battlefield State Park here, just a 20 minute drive from Staunton River State Park.

Drive time: Northern Virginia, three and a half hours; Richmond, two hours; Tidewater/Norfolk/Virginia Beach, three hours; Roanoke, two hours. Click here for a Google map.

Staunton River State Park, 1170 Staunton Trail, Scottsburg, Va. 24589-9636; Phone: (434) 572-4623; Email: stauntonriver. Learn more about park offerings by calling 1-800-933-PARK. Book a cabin or campsite from anywhere at any time online here.

VIRGINIA STATE PARKS IS ALL ABOUT FAMILY - FRIENDS - FUN!