Raven Rocks Trail can be reached via the Appalachian Trail in Bluemont, Virginia. Raven Rocks covers just over five miles, but has an intense, 1,600-foot elevation gain. Locals call this trail “the roller-coaster” for its winding, up and down ridges.
The Shenandoah National Park is home to over 500 miles of hiking trails, but one of the best is the Rose River Falls trail. At just about 2.5 miles round-trip, this moderate loop includes a majestic waterfall and is accessible year-round. Expect just over 700 feet of elevation gain and some steep hills.
For the next trail, we're going to start out on the Appalachian Trail and head up to Spy Rock, referred to as "the best viewpoint in the central Blue Ridge" by the official Virginia state website. The hike is described as "moderately strenuous," and with almost 4,000 feet of elevation, you're sure to get a good workout. But the 360-degree panoramic view at the top will be well-worth the extra effort.
Explore the nearly 5.5 miles of the James River North Bank and Buttermilk trails to discover Richmond’s natural side. The trail is moderately difficult. Get ready for hills overlooking the beautiful James River.
The Fountainhead Regional Park is home to the Fountainhead Trails, a series of trails that cover roughly 2,000 acres. The route is a loop with hilly terrain. Expect many steep descents and climbs but enough straightaways in between to recover nicely.
]]>Smith Mountain Lake is the second largest freshwater lake in Virginia, and a water recreation favorite. Permitted watersports include swimming, motor boating, kayaking, canoeing, sailing, parasailing, paddleboarding, fishing, water skiing, and jet skiing. You can rent jet skis at the nearby Bridgewater Marina.
Lake Gaston boasts 350 miles of shoreline and over 20,000 acres of waterways. It straddles the border between North Carolina and Virginia, and is a popular water sport destination. Visitors can expect to see swimmers, motor boaters, sailors, anglers, water skiers, paddlers, kayakers and jet skiers enjoying the serene locale.
Lake Anna State Park is totally family friendly, and is one of Virginia’s most popular lakes for children and the disabled. The lake sits on 200 miles of shoreline and covers 13,000 acres of water. It is a year-round fishing destination, and jet skiers can expect to share the water with swimmers, boats, sailors, water skiers, and paddleboarders.
Claytor Lake State Park is a 4,500-acre lake, popular with families and among sport anglers. Nearby, the historic Howe House educates visitors as to the ecology of the lake. Jet skiers can expect to find lots of fishermen, swimmers, motor boaters, canoers, paddleboarders, water skiers, and sailors, in addition to other jet skiers. Rent your het ski at Claytor Lake Water Sports, and consider booking a tour with Greasy Creek Outfitters.
The Virginia Beach Oceanfront is one of the heaviest-visited areas on the East Coast during warmer months, but Rudee Inlet is the perfect encapsulation of everything Virginia Beach has to offer. The official Virginia Beach website describes Rudee Inlet as thus: “A tourist and local’s favorite, Rudee Inlet is a great place to meander around the docks and watch the fishing and sport boats coming and going.” Rudee Inlet offers fishing charters, boat rentals, parasailing and paddleboarding, as well as jet ski rentals. Enjoy the harbor as you zip around on the back of a new jet ski.
]]>The Shenandoah National Park is an American treasure. The park boasts over 200,000 acres of protected land, providing a home for songbirds, deer, and pristine hiking conditions. Avid hikers will argue over the best trailheads throughout the park, but everyone can agree that Hawksbill is among them. The first suggested hike is a moderately difficult, two-hour-long, 2.9-mile circuit loop that’ll take you along the Appalachian Trail to the summit of the mountain. For a slightly easier hike, take the Lower Hawksbill approach. It is 1.7 miles roundtrip, and last just over an hour. At 4,501 feet, Hawksbill offers one of the most gorgeous views in the entire park. Make sure to keep an eye out for the Shenandoah salamander, an endangered species found only in the Shenandoah National Park.
Take the Rock Castle Gorge National Recreational Trail in Floyd, Virginia, for a 10.8-mile loop with elevation ranges between 1,700 and 3,500 feet. Along the path, you’ll find 200 varieties of wildflowers, rhododendron, meadows, and streams. The trail can be strenuous, so make sure you’re bringing those who can handle a more difficult hike. Having said that, the trail is family-friendly and features historical structures along the path.
As one of the most photographed spots along the Appalachian Trail, no Virginia hiking list would be complete without recommending McAfee Knob. With a 270-degree panoramic view of the Catawba Valley, North Mountain, Tinker Cliffs, and Roanoke Valley, you’re in for some of the best views in Shenandoah. Get ready for a steep climb with an elevation of 1,700 feet and 4.4 miles, but the views are absolutely worth it.
Breaks Interstate Park in Breaks, Virginia, sits on the Virginia/Kentucky border, and is home to a five-mile gorge nicknamed the “Grand Canyon of the South.” The park has seven trails ranging from easy to difficult, most of which are self-guided. Bird watchers, try out the Ridge Trail. For those interested in the best canyon views, check out the Overlook Trail. The Overlook Trail is characterized by frequent grade changes. While the trail is only .75 miles-long, it is quite difficult. The views of the canyon, however, are stunning.
The Cape Henry Trail in Virginia Beach, Virginia, covers seven miles in First Landing State Park. The elevation gain is only 36 feet, and the trail is quite doable for almost any level of hiker. Mix it up with any of the multiple side trails. Keep in mind, the Cape Henry Trail is one of Virginia Beach’s most popular hiking spots, and it can get busy during the summer and on weekends.
]]>The Stone Mountain Trails in Pennington Gap, Virginia, offer over 30 miles of off-roading adventure for expert level riders. The trail is considered “technical,” meaning experienced skills are required to navigate the roadblocks that might appear along the path, including roots, rocks, and holes. But if you’re capable enough to brave the trail, you’ll be rewarded with nine panoramic overlooks that will take even the hardest biker’s breath away. Permit required.
Coal Canyon Trail in Grundy, Virginia, along with Stone Mountain and three others, collectively make up over 150 miles of off-roading routes known as the Spearhead Trails system. We have chosen to highlight the Stone Mountain Trail for its complexity, and the Coal Canyon trail for its ease of entry. The trail is 61 miles-long and covers the expanse of an old coalfield. Rider and family centric, Coal Canyon is the perfect place to bring a new rider. Permits are required here, too.
Peters Mill Run, combined with Taskers Gap, create the largest off-highway vehicle trails in Virginia. Permits are required. The trails are open from March through the third Monday in January. Peters Mill is 12 miles-long and is generally considered doable for moderate enthusiasts.
Taskers Gap is the second trail system accessible from Edinburg and the Taskers Staging Area. The trail is approximately 28 miles-long and is more challenging than Peters Mill Run. Again, a permit is required, so make sure to check the list of local vendors to pick one up ahead of time. Call ahead to ensure there isn’t any inclement weather or downed trees before you arrive.
Slades Park provides 12 miles of trails along with dirt drag races in a more controlled environment than regular nature trails. Campsite hookups are available for $20 per day to make a weekend outing more enjoyable. Junior riders are welcome to try the Pee Wee track first, to get the feel of their bikes before heading out onto the longer trails. Snacks are available on-site. No permit is required, but all riders must wear a helmet.
]]>Big Boys Playground is steeped in ATV culture and isn’t for the faint of heart. The owner is a die-hard off-roading lover and hosts events on the Playground at least once a month. Hundreds of people and at least 100 trucks come to each event to try to tackle the 150-foot long mud hole. Check out the rock course, single-track trails, and become the first to make it through the notorious “Hell Hole” mud pit.
View this post on Instagram
Virginia’s oldest motocross track, Actiontown MX Park in Dillwyn, Virginia, is one of the state’s most popular, but requires riders to jump through a few hoops before hitting the trail. Riders must have an active American Motorcyclist Association (AMA) membership and a District 13 membership. Both are available for purchase onsite. Actiontown is known for its mile-long track, but is only open during sanctioned events, so make sure to check in before heading out.
The Cove Campground is a privately-owned tree farm covering 3,000-acres near the Appalachian Mountains. The ATV and motorcycle trails are open all year, consisting of loops that range from two to 22 miles. Take note: most of the trails are intended for intermediate to experienced riders, although beginners can take part in the beginner loop. Make sure to check the website for availability, as ATV access is limited on some holidays.
Elkhorn Lake Campground and ATV Trails offer over 560 acres of recreational areas on the pristine Elkhorn Lake and over 31 miles of ATV trails. While trails are open daily, inclement weather could cause closures, so make sure to call ahead. While on-site, consider making your visit a camping weekend. As a paid guest, you’ll have beach access, use of three swimming pools, and admission to live musical entertainment.
Birch Creek Motorsports Park in Danville, Virginia, is a red clay track with whoops, sand, and tabletops. It is perhaps best known as the host for regularly sanctioned ATV and AMA events, including the ATV Motocross National Championship Series, Loretta Lynch Qualifier, Demolition Derby’s, National Championships, Grand Prix, and more. Join the fun every Saturday except during events. Follow them on Facebook for the most up-to-date information regarding events, hours, and pricing.
*Note: Age restrictions, special licenses, and other requirements for off highway vehicles vary from state to state. Before heading out on your OHV, please consult your local regulations.
]]>Scott’s Run Nature Preserve offers a natural retreat from the bustling city-center of McClean, Virginia, close to the famous shopping district, Tysons Corner. While some of the trails of Scott’s Run can be difficult, there is a moderate, family-friendly path along the river. When you park, you’ll notice two possible entrances. The first will take you to the stream while the second will lead you to the trails. Hikers should follow the trails and the signs based on their comfort level and experience. The park opens a half hour before sunrise and closes a half hour after sunset and can be reached on the Georgetown pike. Enjoy the incredible wildlife and vegetation with your family in this oasis away from urban sprawl.
View this post on Instagram
Assateague Island National Seashore shares a border with Maryland and Chincoteague Island in Virginia and offers “sandy beaches, salt marshes, maritime forests and coastal bays.” National Geographic listed it as one of their “Top 10 Family-Friendly Hikes in the U.S.” This park is known for the gorgeous views, particularly of the wild ponies that still roam the island. Hike around the 1.5-mile-loop Woodland Trail on the Virginia side for a good look of the pony enclosure. Consider reading “Misty of Chincoteague” by Marguerite Henry in preparation for the hike and view, as it is based on a true story of one of the Assateague ponies.
The Shenandoah National Park has around 50 unique hiking trails ranging from strenuous to moderate and beginner. One of the best trails, hands down, leads to the Stony Man summit. The hike is less than a mile from the parking area but the view is phenomenal, providing clear vantage points to take in Skyland Drive and Skyland Resort. Take a picnic basket and watch the sunset go down. Perfect for romantic dates or an afternoon out with the kids.
The Cascades in Giles County, Virginia, is one of the most visited spots in the entire Commonwealth, and for good reason. The Cascade Falls are widely regarded some of the most stunning waterfalls in Virginia. The wooden stairs and platform allow visitors a closer look at the 69-foot falls. But the falls are only half of the appeal. Take the Upper Trail for aerial views of Little Stony Creek, another incredible waterway. The original 1960s trail is a work of art in and of itself for its seamless integration into the landscape. Continue along the four-mile path until you see the enormous boulder—just on the other side, the Cascades await. While the terrain can occasionally become steep, the trail is considered moderate, and is likely a good fit for families with slightly older kids.
High Bridge Trail is one of the most popular in the state. This 31-mile trail is perfect for great hiking, biking, and even horseback riding. What makes the trail ideal for families is that it is mostly flat—as it was rail bed years ago. The real attraction is the immaculate high bridge—stretching around 2,400 feet in length and 125 feet about the Appomattox River. This historic landmark will wow the whole family.
]]>Bridgewater Coffee Co. is a quaint coffee shop in the small town of Bridgewater, but their coffee packs a punch. Get yourself a big, steeping mug of hot goodness and a bagel before heading out on the road. It’s the only way to start your adventure out right.
The George Washington and Jefferson National Forest is one of the most popular off-road destinations in Virginia, and for good reason. They’ve got tons of trails open to motorists throughout the year (except from the third Monday in January to the third Monday in March). For this itinerary, stick to the Peters Mill Run and Tasker’s Gap area. Check out the map to find which trails are easy, intermediate, and more difficult. You’ll enjoy hours of off-roading fun here.
The Shenandoah Caverns are one of Virginia’s most famous attractions. While you’re in the area, might as well stop by and take in the “breathtaking natural wonders, incredible geology and extraordinary crystalline formations on a one-hour guided tour.”
After a long day out in the forest, you’ve earned yourself a carb-loaded meal. Prosecco Ristorante serves delicious pizza of all kinds, calzones, pizza rolls, soups, pasta, chicken dishes, great apps, and more.
By the Side of the Road in nearby Harrisonburg offers romantic luxury cottages, manor house suites, and spring water cottage suites for you to choose from. Consider signing up for an all-inclusive package for extra perks. Complimentary breakfast is served in the morning!
]]>Beginners may not want to attempt to cross the entire Great Dismal Swamp on their first outing, as it requires a three-mile trip through a Feeder Ditch before getting into the Swamp proper. The Swamp contains black bear, bobcats, beavers, river otters, hundreds of different bird species, and over 70 different butterfly species. The water itself is flat, which means you won’t have to contend with crazy waves or rocking back and forth. As long as your endurance is up, the Great Dismal Swamp is perfect to introduce a beginner to the wonders of nature as seen from a kayak.
The Smith River in Henry County is a perfect spot for beginner to intermediate kayakers. The flow of the water can be quite variable, ranging from relatively easy paddling to more challenging waters, so be sure you know exactly what you're in for before you go. Either way, paddlers will enjoy the natural wonders that surround the Smith River. Smith River Outfitters provide kayak and canoe rentals, as well as guides to help beginners along.
With its incredible scenic views, access to wildlife, and mostly calm water, the Shenandoah River couldn’t be better for novice kayakers. The trail from the South Fork is manageable and it is recommended you go during spring or risk shallow water, requiring you to tube a portion of the route instead of kayak. Even so, the Shenandoah River provides breathtaking views of the valley and Blue Ridge Mountains, making for a memorable trip.
The James River provides a family-friendly, safe location to introduce kayaking to the kids. While you could theoretically kayak at any number of points along the river, starting in Scottsville and possibly joining a Reeling and Rafting class might be the best way to ensure a successful first outing. Consider the scenic route from Hatton Ferry to Scottsville, which takes around four hours and provides new kayakers with easy water to get their sea legs.
When visitors come to Virginia Beach, they might not immediately think of kayaking as an outdoor activity. But kayaking in Back Bay Wildlife Refuge is a wonderful way to acquaint oneself with the diversity of Virginia Beach’s ecosystem and natural beauty. Take a day away from the beach to paddle along this beginner-friendly route. If you’re lucky, you might spot any number of owls, great blue herons, turtles, snakes, and whitetail deer along the path.
]]>Pocahontas State Park boasts 64 miles of trails, but birdwatchers should pay special attention to the Beaver Lake Trail. This 2.45-mile trail provides great views of Beaver Lake and the various wetland birds that call it home.
The Eastern Shore of the Virginia National Wildlife Refuge in Cape Charles, Virginia, is home to over 300 birds, including very rare species. The best way for a hiker to view them is to take the Southern Tip Bike and Hike Trail. It’s just over 2.5 miles. On your hike, you might catch sight of anything from a mourning dove to a bald eagle!
New River Trail State Park sits on 1,668 acres of land in Max Meadows, Virginia. The trail has a “gentle slope,” which makes it “great for visitors of all ages to hike, bike and ride horseback,” according to the official website. Mourning doves, ruby-throated hummingbirds, and northern flickers reside here, so birders are in for a real treat.
The Mill Mountain Star Trail is a great hike up Roanoke’s most famous mountain range while providing a fantastic spot for birdwatching. According to the Virginia is for Lovers website, “Nature enthusiasts and wildlife-watchers would probably find most interest in hiking the Star Trail…see spring and fall migratory warblers and nesting migrants,” among others.
The Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge in Virginia Beach has five trails with adjoining lookout points over the beach. Birdwatchers should be on the lookout for osprey, eagles, terns, and so much more!
Kiptopeke State Park in Cape Charles, Virginia, is known for its fall hawk-watch sites. It is a go-to for anyone interested in watching fall migratory birds, and is known for its long-lasting hawk watch. The park boasts over five miles of hiking trails.
With over 485 acres of protected marsh, flood plain, swamp, and forest, the Dyke Marsh Wildlife Preserve is an ideal spot for birdwatching. Consider taking the Haul Road Trail, an old mining road just under a mile long through the Dyke Marsh. Keep an eye to the skies for over 270 species of birds.
]]>
Jake’s Bait and Tackle in Winchester, Virginia, carries name brands, from Bass Pro Shops, Denali, Gary Yamamoto, and much more. Not only do they sell bait and tackle, but they offer fantastic tips and tricks for the area.
Chris’s Bait and Tackle in Capeville, Virginia, stocks fresh and frozen bait, along with tackle, rods, and reels. They provide fishing and shooting equipment. You can read a little more about their products online, but it’s best to check them out for yourself in person.
Oceans East in Virginia Beach, Virginia, is open early and sells a wide array of name brands, including equipment for fresh and salt water fishing. You can shop by brand or order custom riggings and rods.
Hooker Bait and Tackle services all the fishing needs in Toano, Virginia. They invite you “to come visit us for a pleasant, efficient shopping experience,” according to their website. They’ve been in business since 2000 providing the best bait and tackle on the market.
Perhaps not surprisingly, Virginia Beach is one of the biggest fishing spots in the state. You’re only 15 minutes away from the beach and premier fishing spots nearly anywhere in the city. Long Bay Pointe Bait and Tackle offers huge lines of beverages, snacks, ice, apparel, fuel services, rod, reels, and bait and tackle.
Surfside Bait and Tackle provides Mechanicsville, Virginia, with live bait, including minnows, goldfish, eels, crickets, blood worms, red worms, and more. They also stock frozen bait, including squid, shrimp, finger mullet, and chicken neck. Owned by a championship fisherman, the shop has everything you could need.
Wallace’s Bait and Tackle in Hampton, Virginia, is under new ownership as of February 2017. The new owners have expanded the shop’s offerings, adding beer and snacks to their wide range of bait and tackle.
Chesapeake Bait and Tackle in Chesapeake, Virginia, sells eyelets and tips for your favorite rods, along with a full-service bait and tackle shop. Recently under new ownership, you’ll find just about anything you could ask for here.
Virginia Guide Bait Co. in Chesterfield, Virginia, is a small, but consistently great bait shop. Featured products include Zoom worm, salty tubes, swamp crawlers, and hogs. Give them a call or stop by to see their entire line.
Hopkins Gun and Tackle in Mechanicsville, Virginia, sells firearms, clothing, gifts, knives, and fishing equipment. Live and frozen bait options include blood worms, red wigglers, mealworms, night crawlers, minnows, and much more.
]]>John H. Kerr Reservoir takes up over 70,000 acres, including shoreline, a 50,000-acre lake, and woods. Fill your backpack and make a weekend out of camping in any of their 249 primitive campground sites while you explore the area.
The Big Meadows Campground in Madison County, Virginia, is near many fantastic hiking trails and viewing spots. Make sure to explore the area and stop by the three waterfalls within walking distance. Campsites are available on a first-come first-served basis, but you can make reservations ahead of time for some. Walk-in sites, along with other kinds, are available.
The Grayson Highlands State Park has tons of camping options, but those interested in primitive camping should make sure to reserve a spot. There is also group camping available. Because this is a highly popular horseback riding and camping location, the primitive camping area is centralized in a stable area campground.
The Chickahominy Riverfront Park in Williamsburg, Virginia, is known for its beautiful riverfront views and water recreation. Backpackers are welcome to camp in any of the many tents-only camping spots throughout the park. Reservations may be made up to a year in advance.
Horseshoe Flats Campground in Scottsville, Virginia, is a family-owned and operated campground with tons of primitive tent sites, perfect for backpackers. Campers will enjoy the waterfront views and tours to local vineyards and breweries.
]]>Bear Creek lake in Cumberland, Virginia, is only an hour away from Richmond and offers some of the most spectacular views and serene waters in the Old Dominion. The 40-acre lake offers boat launches, fishing pier, and boat rentals. The park opens at 8 a.m. and closes at dusk, so make sure to time yourself accordingly. Species include largemouth bass, bluegill, redear sunfish, black crappie, and channel catfish.
Lake Anna is one of the largest freshwater inland lakes in Virginia, covering over 20 square-miles across three counties. With over 30 unique fish species, Lake Anna is prime fishing real estate. The most sought after fish in include the largemouth bass, striper, and crappie, among others. The surrounding park has picnic areas and boat launching ramps. For bait and other supplies, stop in at Fish Tales in Mineral, Virginia, before you hit the water! They’ll have everything you’ll need from live bait to other fishing equipment.
The James River cuts its course directly through the heart of the urban downtown Richmond area. Nestled between steel buildings and concrete, the river oasis provides for a welcome burst of natural beauty, history, and excellent fishing. Small mouth bass is most commonly fished for, although flathead, blue, and channel catfish are present throughout. Nine fishing spots exist all along the river and have various access points with slightly different fish present. Need to gear up with some supplies before you hit the water? Stop in at Fin and Skin Bait and Tackle right in Richmond.
Lake Moomaw in western Virginia is a man-made lake covering 2,530 acres and is great for winter fishing. The lake is stocked with both warm water fish, like bass, sunfish, crappie, and catfish, and cold water fish, such as trout. Trout varieties include rainbow, brown, and brook trout. Alewives, too, are present. Trout fishing at Moomaw doesn’t require a license or a National Forest stamp. Regulations for different sizes of fish exist, so make sure to check the website before taking any home.
Mossy Creek is famous for its incredible fly fishing. Even expert fly fishers may have trouble at this challenging limestone creek, as fish must be caught from the banks instead of from the water itself. The brown trout that live in the creek can be up to 25 inches, and are stocked regularly. Head to Harrisonburg’s Mossy Creek Fly Shop if you are in need of fly fishing gear. This shop also provides guide services so you can make the most of your fishing adventure! Anglers must have a Virginia fishing license and signed permit card with them to fish the creek.
]]>
River Rock Outfitter has been serving the fine people of Fredericksburg since 2014. They provide locally-owned supplies for kayaking, paddle boarding, fly fishing, climbing, hiking, yoga, and camping.
North River Outdoors, an Ashland, Virginia, sells survival, tactical, and camping gear. Camping equipment includes tents, flashlights, airbeds, and much more. You’ll find everything you’ll ever need for a camping trip at his shop.
Back Country Ski and Sport services the Salem and Blacksburg, Virginia, areas, with one location in each. They stock hiking, backpacking, skiing, winter sports, and camping equipment. Not ready to make the investment to buy your own stuff? Consider renting from their rental shop.
Outdoor Trails has one location in Daleville and another in Lynchburg, Virginia. Both locations focus on selling outdoor equipment and clothes and typically have excellent sales. They stock a wide variety of well-known brands, including the North Face, Sierra Designs, Marmot, and more.
Mountain Trails in Winchester, Virginia, is a family owned and operated outdoors equipment shop. Their products include clothing, equipment, footwear, and climbing essentials. Take a look at their wide selection of brand name tents and other equipment from Marmot, Big Agnes , and more.
The Great Outdoor Provision Co. has a few Virginia locations, including one in Virginia Beach and Charlottesville. They sell men and women’s clothing, accessories, footwear, camping equipment, and more. Camping equipment includes tents, packs, sleeping bags, hydration, and camp kitchen equipment from popular brands like Yeti.
Field & Steam is one of the oldest outdoor equipment stores around and has two locations in Virginia. If you’re lucky enough to visit one of their locations, you’ll find a vast array of camping gear and hunting essentials from brands like Yeti, Under Armour, and more. We’re particularly partial to the Camp Chef Camp Oven Pizza Stone.
Walkabout Outfitter is one of the bigger, yet still-local outdoor shops in Virginia, with six locations throughout the Commonwealth. While primarily focused on hiking, they stock all of the best brands for camping equipment, too, including the North Face, Patagonia, Mountain Hardwear, and more.
Backcountry in Christiansburg, Virginia, may be the ideal camping gear store. They sell tents, shelters, sleeping equipment, packs, furniture, hydration, lighting, essentials, navigation, and even dog accessories. Brands include Therm-a-Rest, Marmot, Eureka!, and much more.
Casual Adventure in Arlington, Virginia, stocks Thule, Eureka!, Silva, and many more excellent camping brands. Their sleeping bags, water treatment gear, footwear, and more will ensure that your next camping trip is a rousing good time.
]]>
The Preddy Creek Trail Park in Charlottesville, Virginia, is over 570 acres in total, 10 miles of which are reserved for hiking, running, biking, and horseback riding. The wooded park has easy topography, allowing you to go at your own pace and enjoy the scenery.
One of the lesser-traversed parks in the Richmond area, Powhite nonetheless offers wonderful natural trails with gorgeous foliage and abundant wildlife. Runners, watch out for other hikers, birdwatchers, dog walkers, and bikers.
Prince William Forest has over 47 miles of hiking trails on its 15,000 acres. The trails are of varying difficulty and terrain, with some cutting through wetlands and most through forests. Runners, consider the Laurel Loop Trail to start. You’ll likely come back over and over again.
The Freedom Park in Williamsburg sits on over 600 acres of forested land, with around two miles of multi-use trails. The park is steeped in history, with notable sites dating back to the 1650s.
Located on the Potomac River, Great Falls Park will make your invigorating run a lot more relaxing with all of its scenic sights. If you’re looking for an easier trek, try out the 1.5-mile Ridge Trail, rated from “easy to moderate.” This trail is popular among hikers, cyclists, and horseback riders.
For an incomparable summer jog, head to First Landing State Park. Try out the moderately-rated Bald Cypress Trail at 1.8 miles-long. This trail is among the most popular in the park and boasts a picturesque boardwalk swamp overview. Enjoy the spectacular sights of bald cypress swamps and other breathtaking natural features.
View this post on Instagram
Encompassing a portion of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Shenandoah National Park provides limitless opportunity for exploration. If you’re in the mood for a jog that will help you clear your head, try the Jones Run Falls route in the Loft Mountain Area. Roundtrip, the trek is 3.4 miles with a steady incline of 915 feet. And there is a real treat on this hike: a magnificent 42-foot waterfall enveloped in rocks, moss, and bushes. Shenandoah’s official site describes the waterfall as a “jewel.”
]]>
Big Bear Family Campground in Windsor, Virginia, has everything a young family might need. The site itself has ample water, electric, and sewer hookups for comfort. Kids will love the 10-acre private fishing lake, usable without a license. The in-ground swimming pool, playground with sandbox, volleyball net, and swing set provide entertainment options. The wooded trails around the area are easy-going for youngsters. Located within an hour of Historic Williamsburg, Historic Smithfield, and Virginia Beach, you couldn’t ask for a better home base for a family campground than Big Bear.
Cozy Acres Family Campground has been the passion project of the Daniel’s family since 1974. The facilities include RV campsites, a trading post convenience store, quaint cottages for rent, a charming clubhouse, and a plethora of activities. On any given weekend, activities could include fireworks, corn hole, car shoes, or seasonal events, like pumpkin carving. The natural beauty of the park is hard to overstate. Cozy Acres has it all.
Everyone says the same things about North Bay: it’s clean, the staff is friendly, and the atmosphere is warm and welcoming. Open during the spring, summer, and early fall months, North Bay in Virginia Beach has campsites with electric, water, and sewer hookups, cabins for rent, restrooms, private showers, swimming pool, fresh water fishing, boat and canoe rentals, a recreation hall, and more. The location is not to be understated. The site is within 20 minutes of Oceana Naval Air Station, the Marine Science Museum, Virginia Beach boardwalk, Cape Henry Lighthouse, Tide’s Baseball Park, among others. For a vacation to Virginia Beach, North Bay Shore is a fantastic option.
The Shenandoah Valley is one of the most beautiful and serene areas in the entire state, and there’s no better way to introduce the kids to nature than at Shenandoah Family Campground. The location provides families with the ability to tour the rest of the valley and to see the Blue Ridge Mountains, Luray Caverns, and varied wildlife. Activities on-site include Memorial Day, Fourth of July, and Labor Day weekend events, consisting of movies, games, a karaoke, and a cookout. The campsite is open year-round with amenities including a camp store, snack bar, amp service, water, electric and sewer at all sites, bath house, restroom, laundry, dog run, Wi-Fi, fire rings, and much more.
What’s more magical than camping by the beach? Chincoteague Island KOA boasts 400 RV sites, tent sites, and deluxe cabins situated on 200 acres. Participate in themed weekends and other family-friendly activities. The area also features a playground, an activity room, kayaking, a food truck, and a tiki bar for when the adults want to escape for a drink. If you visit in July, you just might get to witness the annual, world-famous Chincoteague Island Pony Swim. On the last Wednesday in July, wild Chincoteague ponies are herded across the Assateague Channel, and a carnival event immediately follows. If you’re saying at Chincoteague Island KOA, you’ll get a free trolley ride to and from the event!
]]>