Posted February 21, 2017 | Updated February 12, 2019

If you live in Virginia's Blue Ridge, also known as the Roanoke Valley, then there's plenty to see and do nearby, from waterfalls, scenic drives to rocky outcroppings like the famed McAfee Knob.

But what if you want to spend a day in the park? Some of Virginia State Parks' visitor favorites are all within an hour's drive, including the most iconic spot in the entire Commonwealth.

You may be new to the area, or considering a move and would like to see what is available for day tripping nearby. Or you may be a lifelong resident and never found these incredible places that are within your reach, so here's your guide to fun day tripping adventures all within an hour of home, courtesy of Virginia State Parks.

Here are the first two parks in this series within an hour of Virginia's Blue Ridge to explore:

1. | DOUTHAT STATE PARK

Mountain biking mecca with more than 43 miles of trails to ride

Hike 3 miles to Blue Suck Falls at Douthat State Park

The swimming beach is a great way to cool off in the summer months

Endless views entice you to see the lake from the Tuscarora Overlook 

The best seat in the house is outside on the deck at the Lakeview Restaurant

A family favorite park that originated in 1936 and located in the beautiful Allegheny Mountains, Douthat is listed on the National Register of Historic Places for the role its design played in the development of parks nationwide. Recreational enthusiasts call this park "epic" and the "Disneyland of mountain biking."

Visitors can enjoy interpretive programs, four miles of stream fishing, a 50-acre lake stocked for the best trout fishing around, and a sandy swimming beach with boat rentals open seasonally. Also open in season is the Lakeview Restaurant with outdoor seating and views of the water and mountains. (Hint: order the "Douthat Chips" you won't be disappointed). You can also rent the facility for private functions throughout the year. 

This park has more than 43 miles of hiking, mountain biking and bridle trails. It also surrounded by the George Washington National Forest for even more wooded trails to ride.

Playgrounds and picnic areas, tent and trailer camping, and 32 cabins (some original CCC built) and three lodges that can accommodate 15, 16 and 18 guests each.

Click here to search our database of unforgettable experiences to be had at Douthat State Park. Learn more about Douthat State Park here to help plan your day trip.

2. | CLAYTOR LAKE STATE PARK

Fishing from the shore, dock or boat is a popular pastime at Claytor Lake State Park

Jet Skis are a fun way to explore the lake 

Claytor Lake State Park is a family friendly destination

It's easy to see that the majority of fun at Claytor Lake State Park is centered on the water and the abundance of related recreation. Spend the day on the water, at the beach, riding the 4 miles of easy rated hiking or bike trails. There are fun nature, history, outdoor and programs throughout the year, as well as festivals and music events.

Being a larger lake, fishing is a popular sport at Claytor Lake State Park. Bass, catfish, muskie, walleye and striped bass are among the popular sport fish found in the lake. There is a seasonal marina with boat rentals, boat slips, gasoline and fishing supplies and licenses. Rent a pontoon, motorboat, canoe, SUP or kayak at this park. Edited to add: Last year Mountain 2 Island Paddleboard Company had fun "Paddle Up Concerts" in one of the park's coves. Follow them on Facebook here.

Unlike some of our other more remote Virginia State Parks, you can easily access Claytor Lake State Park by taking Exit 101 off Interstate 81 and driving just a few miles to reach the park entrance. This makes it a great outing location midway coming from the North or South.

Click here to search our database of unforgettable experiences to be had at Claytor Lake State Park. Learn more about Claytor Lake State Park here to help plan your day trip.

Many outdoor recreational opportunities are found nearby Virginia State Parks like the very popular McAfee Knob

BONUS I: The Appalachian Trail is also within your reach, from day hikes to backpacking overnighters you have access from Roanoke to some of the best of this nationally recognized trail. The A.T. is a 2,175-mile trail following the Appalachian Mountains from Georgia to Maine, with 120 miles of the trail meandering through the Roanoke Region. Find your hike here.

BONUS II: One of our favorite outdoor recreation websites is found within the Roanoke Region and is called Roanoke Outside. If you enjoy outdoor activities, events or even wish to create your own adventure, click here.

We hope you'll enjoy a visit to Douthat and Claytor Lake State Parks, two great parks offering outdoor recreation for unforgettable experiences within an hour of Roanoke.

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Editor's Note: For the next three, see Part 2 in this series here where we explore the other three parks, one is our largest parks with one of the smallest lakes: Fairy Stone State Park, and one of Virginia's largest lakes with a park that is less than a quarter the size of Fairy Stone: Smith Mountain Lake State Park. We also reveal the most iconic place in Virginia, which just so happens to be a Virginia State Park.

Posted February 21, 2017 | Updated February 12, 2019