Weddings at Grayson Highlands State Park
829 Grayson Highland Ln., Mouth of Wilson, VA 24363; Phone: 276-579-7092; Email: GraysonHighlands@dcr.virginia.gov
Located near Mount Rogers and Whitetop Mountain, Virginia's two highest mountains, Grayson Highlands State Park offers scenic views of alpine-like peaks more than 5,000 feet high. Visitors can embark on leisurely strolls or more challenging hikes, encountering cascading waterfalls, rocky outcroppings and wildflower fields along the way. With opportunities for camping, picnicking and wildlife watching, this park provides an unforgettable outdoor experience in the untamed beauty of Virginia's mountainous terrains. Grayson Highlands is perfect for simple weddings in a natural setting. Depending on the location, the park can accommodate small elopements or larger weddings with 100 guests.
Park Amenities
- Outdoor space
- Campground
- Visitor center
- Picnic shelters
Locations for Ceremonies and Receptions
Buzzard Rock Overlook
Dimensions: n/a
Ceremony Guests: 50 guests
Reception Guests: n/a
Amenities and Specifics
- The park does not provide tables, chairs, decorations or other equipment for ceremonies or receptions. All rentals and aspects of setup are the wedding party's responsibility.
- Buzzard Rock Overlook is open to the public and cannot be closed, so there should be no expectation of total privacy during your event.
Fees
- $25 Special Use Permit Application fee
- Regular parking fees
- Other facility rental fees may apply. Please contact the park for more information.
Homestead Area
Dimensions: n/a
Ceremony Guests: 100 guests
Reception Guests: 100 guests
Amenities and Specifics
- Rustic barn shelter with picnic tables. The tables provide seating for 100 guests. They can be removed for a fee.
- Electricity.
- The park does not provide folding tables, chairs, decorations or other equipment for ceremonies or receptions. All rentals and aspects of setup are the wedding party's responsibility.
- Parking is not allowed at or around the shelter. Supplies and guests can be dropped off at the shelter, but vehicles must be removed immediately after the drop-off.
- While the barn shelter can be reserved, the Homestead and nearby picnic areas are open to the public and cannot be roped off. So, there should be no expectation of total privacy during your event.
Fees
- $25 Special Use Permit Application fee
- Regular parking fees
- Other facility rental fees may apply. Please contact the park for more information.
Special Use Permit
Service Providers
To view the availability of local florists, caterers, photographers, bakeries, etc., please visit our local chamber or tourism department websites:
Other Information
Contact
For specific questions, please contact the park at 276-579-7092 or email graysonhighlands@dcr.virginia.gov. Reservations must be made by calling the Virginia State Parks Customer Service Center at 800-933-7275.FAQs
1. Do you have a venue for ceremonies and receptions?
- Yes, while the park offers several outdoor options, the two most popular are the Homestead area and Buzzard Rock Overlook. Weddings can be held in other areas of the park with staff approval.
2. How many guests can these locations accommodate?
- The Homestead area can accommodate 100 guests for ceremonies and receptions. Buzzard Rock Overlook can accommodate 50 guests for ceremonies.
3. Are the venues available for rent for the full day?
- Yes, the picnic shelters can be rented for exclusive use from 8 a.m. until 10 p.m. The Homestead area and Buzzard Rock Overlook are not rental facilities and are accessible to the public whenever the areas are open.
4. Is internet access available?
- Internet access is available for several cellular service providers at the park office and visitor center. Reception is very limited in other areas of the park.
5. Are tables and chairs available?
- No, the park does not provide tables, chairs or anything else for weddings at the park.
6. Are restrooms available?
- Yes, there are restrooms available in the picnic area until 10 p.m. and inside the visitor center during the operation hours of 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
7. Are caterers allowed?
- Yes, park staff will need a copy of their certificate of insurance and health department permit prior to the start of the reservation.
8. Are DJs allowed?
- Yes, park staff will need a copy of their certificate of insurance before the start of the reservation. DJs must set up inside the barn shelter. Park staff will discuss appropriate sound levels before the start of your event. There is no power available at the Buzzard Rock Overlook.
9. Can I serve alcoholic beverages at my event?
- Yes, alcohol may be served at the barn shelter in the Homestead area. An Alcoholic Beverage Control banquet license is required. Please provide a copy of the license to park staff before the start of your event. The license should be posted at all times while the event is being held.
10. Are decorations permitted?
- Yes, decorations are permitted but may not be attached to painted surfaces and may not damage the hall in any way. Paint, glue, glitter or confetti are not allowed. No candles or open flames are allowed inside facilities. Renters are responsible for damages or any excess cleaning required after the event.
11. Is ice available?
- Yes, ice is available for purchase at the Country Store at Hickory Ridge Campground.
12. Is there a fireplace in the barn shelter?
- No, there is not a fireplace in the barn shelter.
13. Do I need to complete any additional paperwork through the park office?
- Yes, a Special Use Permit Application and a $25 application fee are required.
14. What if I need assistance after the office closes?
- Staff will provide you with a ranger on-call phone number for after-hours assistance.
15. I would like to tour the park before making a reservation. Is this possible?
- Yes, please contact the park office at 276-579-7092 to schedule an appointment.
16. Do you have overnight facilities for our wedding guests?
- Yes, the park offers four yurts, a camping lodge, 89 campsites and one group camping area. Guests can make reservations 11 months in advance for Hickory Ridge Campground online at reservevaparks.com or by calling the Virginia State Parks Customer Service Center at 1-800-933-7275 and selecting option 5. Guests can make reservations 30 days in advance for Chestnut Hallow Equestrian Campground by calling the Virginia State Parks Customer Service Center at 1-800-933-7275 and selecting option 5.
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