The state of Virginia is brimming with lush parks and incredible outdoor spaces, many of which are regarded as some of the nation’s best. With scenic hiking trails, picturesque views, a wealth of recreational activities, and more, spending some leisure time in this state’s parks definitely won’t disappoint. VA is home to 41 state parks, all of which have something unique to offer to visitors. But, if you are looking for the best of the best, going to all these parks, especially on vacation, is a tall order. So to remove some of the guesswork, here are ten fantastic state parks in Virginia to visit, along with their most scenic trails.
10 First Landing State Park
With over 19 miles of hiking trails, camping, boating, and beaches, plus nature and history programs, First Landing State Park has something for everyone. Located in Virginia Beach, this expansive outdoor space is a fan favorite. Part of this park is even a historical site that dates back to 1607.
- Most Scenic Trail: Bald Cypress is a 1.8-mile-long footpath that features a boardwalk with stunning overviews.
- Hike Difficulty Level: Though Bald Cypress is a relatively short trail, it is still a moderate hike with a few steep areas you should be mindful of.
- Hours of Operation: The park is open daily from 7 am to dusk.
9 Hungry Mother State Park
Yet another lovely park in this state worth checking out is Hungry Mother State Park. Located in Marion, visitors come from far and wide to marvel at this area’s beautiful woodlands and large shimmering lake. Here, park goers will find a plethora of outdoor activities, cabin rentals, a visitor center, and more than 17 miles of hiking trails.
- Most Scenic Trail: Stone Lick Trail is a short 0.8-mile trek with a gorgeous view of the highest point in Virginia—Mount Rogers.
- Hike Difficulty Level: This is considered to be a moderate hike.
- Hours of Operation: This park is open from 8 am to 10 pm daily.
8 Grayson Highlands State Park
Not too far away, nature lovers will stumble upon Grayson Highlands State Park. Located in the Mouth of Wilson, visitors can enjoy everything from camping and backpacking to horseback riding, fishing, and canoeing tours. This lovely state park also has a visitors center, flowing waterfalls, plus hiking trails of all lengths and difficulty levels.
- Most Scenic Trail: Haws Flat is a 0.62-mile-long journey in one of the best mountain parks in the country, with one-of-a-kind views of alpine-like peaks and more.
- Hike Difficulty Level: This is an easy trail, great for beginners.
- Hours of Operation: Grayson Park is open daily from 8 am to 10 pm.
7 Occoneechee State Park
Occoneechee State Park is one of the lesser-known state parks located in Clarksville. But it is hard to say why when this is such a wonderful outdoor space. This park offers visitors more than a few lodging options, including cabins and campsites. There is also a visitor center, a Native American museum, horseback riding, boating, picnicking, hiking, and more here.
- Most Scenic Trail: The Panhandle Trail is the longest footpath in this state park. But it is well worth the trek as visitors can see pretty much the entire park and all its beautiful scenery.
- Hike Difficulty Level: The Panhandle is considered to be a relatively moderate hike.
- Hours of Operation: This VA state park is open daily from 8 am to dusk.
6 Natural Tunnel State Park
Known as the “Eighth Wonder of the World,” Natural Tunnel State Park in Duffield, VA, should definitely be atop your outdoorsy bucket list. Here park goers can explore lengthy caves (tours are available), go camping, or simply kick back and relax by the campground’s swimming pool. This park also has a visitors center, picnic areas, a camp store, the Wilderness Road historic area, and a tunnel chairlift.
- Most Scenic Trail: Out of the seven hiking trails here, Lovers Leap Trail promises visitors phenomenal views.
- Hike Difficulty Level: Lover Leap is a short and easy hike.
- Hours of Operation: This wondrous park is open daily from 8 am to dusk.
5 High Bridge Trail State Park
Located in Green Bay, High Bridge Trail State Park is home to a 31-mile trail that runs along—you guessed it—a very high bridge. Approximately 125 feet high and 2,400 feet long, a leisurely stroll along this bridge isn’t for the timid. But if you’re not afraid of heights, then come check out the simply gorgeous views of the Appomattox River. Other notable activities include biking, horseback riding, fishing, and boating.
- Most Scenic Trail: High Bridge Trail offers visitors stunning views of the surrounding area and nearby river.
- Difficulty Level: The HB trail is a relatively easy trek because it is primarily a flat footpath.
- Hours of Operation: This top-rated state park is open from sunrise to dusk.
4 Westmoreland State Park
Westmoreland State Park is yet another must-see VA park for outdoorsy types and nature lovers. Located in Montross, VA, parkgoers can enjoy a nice day at the beach, learn more about the area’s rich history, check out the Potomac River, bask in all the beauty of the great outdoors, and so much more. This park has several camping sites, fishing, boat rentals, a swimming pool, snack bars, and event centers.
- Most Scenic Trail: Beach Trail is a lovely 0.4-mile footpath that offers hikers sensational beach and lakefront views.
- Difficulty Level: This is a moderate and short hike.
- Hours of Operation: Westmoreland is open every day from dawn to dusk.
3 Pocahontas State Park
The Pocahontas State Park is a beautiful area in Chesterfield that’s fun for the whole family. With 80+ miles of hiking and biking trails, campsites, cabin rentals, an Aquatic Center, and more, visitors can truly “paint with all the colors of the wind” here. Visitors at Pocahontas State Park can also opt for an afternoon of fishing, swimming, lounging by the pool, picnicking, and boating.
- Most Scenic Trail: Fendley Station Trail is a 13.8-mile loop that is delightfully serene.
- Difficulty Level: A somewhat challenging trek, Fendley Station is recommended only for experienced hikers.
- Hours of Operation: This adventure-filled park is open every day, from 7:30 am to dusk.
2 Fairy Stone State Park
Located near the VA town of Stuart, Fairy Stone State Park was named after a local legend. Besides searching for the “crystallized tears of fairies,” visitors can also spend time at this park’s lovely beaches, sprawling lake, and water playground. There are several lodging options at Fairy Stone and a wealth of outdoor recreation.
- Most Scenic Trail: Two equally scenic trails, in their own specific way, are Upper Stuart’s Knob and Lower Stuart’s Knob. Depending on your scenery preferences, you’ll find beautiful lake views at Upper Stuart’s and unreal views of mountain vegetation and wildlife at Lower Stuart’s.
- Difficulty Level: Both trails rate high in terms of difficulty.
- Hours of Operation: Fairy Stone is open daily from 8 am to 10 pm.
1 Smith Mountain Lake State Park
Located in Huddleston, VA, Smith Mountain Lake State Park offers visitors ample outdoor fun, camping, cabin rentals, and countless miles of walking/hiking trails. Here park goers can also enjoy fishing, swimming, picnicking, adventuring, and the occasional special event or nature program.
- Most Scenic Trail: Buck Run Tail is known for its breathtaking views of the park’s deepest cove. You can also catch stunning lake views and enjoy some first-rate bird watching along this trail.
- Difficulty Level: This 1.74-mile long footpath is rated as a moderate hike.
- Hours of Operation: Smith Mountain Lake is open daily from 8:15 am to dusk.