10 State Parks Worth Seeing in Virginia
Close to Virginia's two highest mountains, Grayson Highlands State Park serves up scenic vistas. This destination doesn’t disappoint with a visitor center, campgrounds, and hiking trails leading to waterfalls and majestic overlooks are just some of the outdoor activities you’ll find at this destination. Adjacent to the Mount Rogers National Recreation Area and within the Jefferson National Forest. Containing a total of 4,502 acres.
"BUCKET LIST HIKE"
SMITH MOUNTAIN LAKE STATE PARK
Located on the second largest freshwater lake in the state, this picturesque park is the water enthusiast's paradise. Water activities are in abundance here.
"THE JEWEL OF THE BLUE RIDGE"
An historic favorite and one of the original six Virginia State Parks. Known for beautiful woodlands and a tranquil 108-acre lake in the heart of the mountains. Packed with water activities, this easygoing location is sure to be a hit.
"ONE OF MY FAVORITE PLACES"
Well known for its rare and delicate environment. Freshwater and saltwater meet to create a rich habitat for marine and plant life. Located on the York River and designated as a Chesapeake Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve. This park is packed with clues to a rich natural and cultural history. Visiting this park, make sure to check out the fossil beds and Colonial and Native American artifacts that can be found here. Over 30 miles of hiking, mountain biking and equestrian trails give visitors ample opportunity to explore all this state park has to offer.
"HIKER'S PARADISE!"
Virginia's most-travelled state park, the park has 20 miles of trails and 1.5 miles of sandy Chesapeake Bay beach frontage. This is where English colonists first landed in 1607. Native American canoes, Colonial settlers, and modern cargo ships have all navigated this park's extensive waterways. Also a National Natural Landmark and listed in the National Register of Historic Places, First Landing State Park is a must see Virginia State Park.
"A PARK THAT HAS EVERYTHING"
With 3 lakes, and loads of water activities accessible here. This state park has ample opportunities to experience water activities to soothe the soul. Certainly a destination that includes fun pastimes for the whole family. Located in Chesterfield, and near Richmond. Pocahontas State Park offers access to boating, camping, cabins, pools and trails. It is sure to be a hit for any outdoor enthusiast.
"PEACEFUL NATURE AT ITS BEST"
Naturally carved through a limestone ridge over thousands of years. Natural Tunnel State Park is more than 850 feet long and 10 stories high. Called the "Eighth Wonder of the World." by William Jennings Bryan. This parks scenic features include a wide chasm between steep stone walls surrounded by several pinnacles, or "chimneys."
"SURPRISE OF MY LIFE"
CHIPPOKES PLANTATION STATE PARK
Across the James River from historic Jamestown in beautiful Surry County, Chippokes Plantation is one of the oldest regularly farmed plantations in the country. A working farm since 1619, the park offers modern recreational activities and a glimpse of life from a long-ago time. Visitors tour the historic area with its pre-war mansion and outbuildings, enjoy the formal gardens, and view heirloom farming equipment at the Chippokes Farm and Forestry Museum.
"GEM OF HISTORY"
The majestic High Bridge is over 2,400 feet long and 125 feet above the Appomattox River, it is the longest recreational bridge in Virginia, and among the longest in the United States. High Bridge Trail is 31 miles long and perfectly suited for hiking, bicycling and horseback riding. Once a rail bed, the trail is wide, level and mostly flat. Its finely crushed limestone surface makes it an easy to enjoy path. High Bridge is a Virginia Historic Landmark, and is on the National Register of Historic Places. Recognized for its exemplary trails of local and regional significance, the trail is a National Recreation Trail
"MUST SEE"
On Virginia's gorgeous Eastern Shore, Kiptopeke offers recreational access to the Chesapeake Bay. A great place to explore unique migratory bird habitat along the Atlantic flyway, and enjoy the outdoors.
"SUNSET VIEW IS AMAZING"
The adventure of your lifetime, could be right in your own backyard. Enjoy the experience of every moment. It's okay if you aren't sure what you will do when you get there. Just go, and enjoy the journey 😃
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