Blacksburg, nestled in the heart of Virginia’s Blue Ridge Mountains, offers easy access to a variety of state parks perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. Here are five parks within a two-hour drive that promise unforgettable experiences.
- Natural Bridge State Park
- Claytor Lake State Park
- Bear Creek Lake State Park
- Douthat State Park
- Fairy Stone State Park
Natural Bridge Park State Park
Located an hour from Blacksburg, Natural Bridge State Park is a breathtaking natural wonder. The park’s centerpiece is the iconic Natural Bridge, a massive limestone arch 200 feet high. The park features more than just the Bridge, lush forests and rolling meadows showcase the area’s karst terrain and vistas of surrounding mountains. Visitors can enjoy 10 miles of hiking trails, including the Cedar Creek Trail which leads from the the park’s Visitor Center to nearby Lace Falls with a 50-foot cascade.
Claytor Lake State Park
Approximately 30 minutes from Blacksburg, Claytor Lake State Park is a haven for water lovers. With its sprawling 4,500-acre lake, visitors can enjoy boating, fishing, swimming, and water skiing. The park also boasts hiking and biking trails, a marina, and a campground. Cabins are available for those seeking a more comfortable stay.
Bear Creek Lake State Park
Bear Creek Lake State Park is about 1 hour and 30 minutes from Blacksburg and offers a serene escape with its 40-acre Sylvan Lake. Swimming, fishing, and boating are popular activities here. The park also features hiking trails, a campground, and picnic areas. If you prefer a cozy cabin to a tent, there are several options available.
Douthat State Park
Douthat State Park is renowned for its stunning waterfalls and scenic beauty. About 1 hour and 30 minutes from Blacksburg, the park features hiking, fishing, and swimming are popular activities. The park offers a variety of accommodations, including cabins, campsites, and a lodge. Be sure to check out the park’s cabins for a truly unforgettable experience.
Fairy Stone State Park
Fairy Stone State Park is a unique destination about 1 hour and 45 minutes from Blacksburg known for its namesake, the fairy stone, a type of staurolite crystal. Hiking, swimming, fishing, and camping are popular activities. The park offers a variety of accommodations, including campsites, cabins, and a campground. Be sure to visit the park’s nature center to learn more about the local flora and fauna.
These five state parks offer something for everyone, from outdoor adventures to relaxing getaways. Each park is within a comfortable driving distance from Blacksburg, making it easy to explore and enjoy all that Virginia’s beautiful countryside has to offer. To find more state parks in Virginia visit the Virginia State Parks website. And be sure to check out our Living in Blacksburg blog for more insider tips on the local area!