In addition to its own opportunities for connecting with nature, Roanoke provides you with easy access to five Virginia State Parks: Claytor Lake, Douthat, Fairy Stone, Smith Mountain Lake and Natural Bridge.

Fairy Stone State Park is the perfect destination if you’re looking for a mountain getaway. While this 4,741-acre park is known for its unique fairy stones and sandy beach on Fairy Stone Lake, this Southwest Virginia gem has a lot more to offer.

Enjoy five short stories about Virginia State Park rangers who deserve a shout out for going above and beyond at Sailor’s Creek Battlefield, Hungry Mother, Wilderness Road, Westmoreland, and Fairy Stone State Parks.