The 30 Best Recreational destinations in Virginia

Merrimac Farm Wildlife Management Area is a beautiful park located at 15014 Deepwood Lane in Nokesville, Virginia. This institution is dedicated to the conservation and management of wildlife in the area, providing a natural habitat for a variety of species. Visitors can enjoy hiking trails, bird watching, and educational programs that highlight the importance of preserving the environment. With its scenic surroundings and diverse wildlife, Merrimac Farm Wildlife Management Area is a great destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.

St. Mary's Falls Trail is a picturesque park located in Steeles Tavern, Virginia, United States. This beautiful trail offers visitors the opportunity to hike through lush forests, alongside babbling streams, and up to the stunning St. Mary's Falls. With well-maintained paths and breathtaking scenery, this park is the perfect destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts looking to explore the beauty of the Virginia countryside. Whether you're looking for a leisurely stroll or a challenging hike, St. Mary's Falls Trail has something for everyone to enjoy.

The Plunge Snow Tubing Park is a popular tourist attraction located at 39 Mountain Inn Loop in Roseland, Virginia, United States. This thrilling park offers a fun and exciting snow tubing experience for visitors of all ages. With multiple tubing lanes and a conveyor lift to take you back to the top, guests can enjoy hours of sliding down the snowy slopes. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned pro, The Plunge Snow Tubing Park is the perfect destination for a winter adventure with family and friends.

Shamokin Springs Nature Preserve is a breathtaking park located on Shamokin Springs Trail in Roseland, Virginia, United States. This stunning preserve offers visitors the chance to immerse themselves in the beauty of nature, with lush greenery, tranquil streams, and diverse wildlife. Whether you're looking to take a leisurely stroll, go birdwatching, or simply relax in a peaceful setting, Shamokin Springs Nature Preserve is the perfect destination. Come explore this hidden gem and reconnect with the natural world.

Rife Park is a beautiful outdoor destination located in Waynesboro, Virginia, United States. This park offers a peaceful and serene environment for visitors to enjoy nature and engage in various recreational activities. With its lush greenery, scenic walking trails, and well-maintained facilities, Rife Park is the perfect spot for picnics, family outings, and leisurely strolls. Whether you're looking to relax in the great outdoors or get active with sports like tennis or basketball, Rife Park has something for everyone to enjoy. Come and experience the tranquility and beauty of Rife Park in Waynesboro, Virginia.

Lake Monocan Park is a picturesque recreational area located at 110 Camping Ridge Court in Nellysford, Virginia, United States. This charming park offers a variety of outdoor activities for visitors of all ages to enjoy, including swimming, fishing, hiking, and picnicking. The park's centerpiece is the serene Lake Monocan, where visitors can relax by the water or take a leisurely paddle boat ride. With its beautiful scenery and tranquil atmosphere, Lake Monocan Park is the perfect destination for a day of outdoor fun and relaxation.

The Blue Ridge Tunnel Trail, East Trailhead is a park located at 215 Afton Depot Lane in Afton, Virginia, United States. This institution is part of the historic Blue Ridge Tunnel, which was constructed between 1850 and 1858 beneath Rockfish Gap in the Blue Ridge Mountains of central Virginia. The tunnel was generously donated to Nelson County by CSX Transportation in 2007. Situated at the convergence of the southern entrance of Shenandoah National Park’s Skyline Drive, the northern entrance of the Blue Ridge Parkway, the Appalachian Trail, and U.S. Bicycle Route 76, the Blue Ridge Tunnel Trail is a popular destination for hikers, cyclists, wildlife watchers, history enthusiasts, and more. The tunnel is also located near Interstate 64 and U.S. 250 at Rockfish Gap.

The Turk Mountain Trailhead is a popular starting point for hikers and outdoor enthusiasts looking to explore the stunning natural beauty of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Located in Waynesboro, Virginia, United States, this park offers a variety of hiking trails that wind through lush forests and offer breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. Whether you're a seasoned hiker or just looking for a leisurely stroll in nature, Turk Mountain Trailhead is the perfect destination for outdoor adventure. Pack a picnic, lace up your hiking boots, and immerse yourself in the beauty of the great outdoors at this scenic park.

Crozet Dog Park is a spacious and well-maintained park located at 910 Claudius Crozet Park in Crozet, Virginia, United States. This park is dedicated to providing a safe and enjoyable space for dogs to run, play, and socialize off-leash. With separate areas for small and large dogs, owners can relax knowing their furry friends are in a secure environment. The park also features amenities such as water stations, waste disposal stations, and shaded seating areas for pet owners. Whether your dog loves to fetch, socialize with other pups, or simply enjoy the outdoors, Crozet Dog Park is the perfect destination for a day of fun and exercise.

Beaver Creek Lake is a picturesque park and tourist attraction located at 4365 Beaver Creek Park in Charlottesville, Virginia, United States. Visitors can enjoy the serene beauty of the lake, go fishing, have a picnic, or take a leisurely stroll along the walking trails. The park offers a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of city life, making it the perfect destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you're looking to relax by the water or explore the surrounding natural landscape, Beaver Creek Lake has something for everyone to enjoy.

Furnace Mountain and Austin Mountain Trailhead is a picturesque park located at 11611 Browns Gap Road in Grottoes, Virginia, United States. This trailhead offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and is the perfect starting point for outdoor enthusiasts looking to explore the natural beauty of the area. Whether you enjoy hiking, biking, or simply taking in the serene atmosphere, Furnace Mountain and Austin Mountain Trailhead is a must-visit destination for nature lovers of all ages. With well-maintained trails and convenient amenities, visitors can easily spend a day exploring the great outdoors and immersing themselves in the peaceful surroundings.

The Lake Monticello Owners Association Campground is a charming retreat nestled in the picturesque town of Palmyra, Virginia. This campground offers a serene and peaceful atmosphere, perfect for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life. With a variety of lodging options available, including tent and RV sites, as well as cozy cabins, visitors can enjoy a comfortable stay surrounded by nature. The campground also features a beautiful park area, complete with walking trails, picnic areas, and a serene lake perfect for fishing and boating. Whether you're looking for a relaxing getaway or an outdoor adventure, the Lake Monticello Owners Association Campground is the perfect destination for nature lovers of all ages.

American Whitewater Takeout for Johns Creek is a picturesque park located in New Castle, Virginia, United States. This institution is a popular destination for whitewater enthusiasts looking to explore the beautiful Johns Creek. With easy access to the water, visitors can enjoy thrilling adventures on the rapids and stunning views of the surrounding natural landscape. Whether you're a seasoned paddler or just looking to relax by the water, American Whitewater Takeout for Johns Creek is the perfect spot for outdoor recreation and relaxation.

Hanging Rock Overlook Trail is a picturesque park located in Paint Bank, Virginia, United States. This stunning trail offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape, including the iconic Hanging Rock formation. Visitors can enjoy a leisurely hike through the lush forests and rocky terrain, with opportunities for birdwatching and wildlife spotting along the way. The park is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers looking to immerse themselves in the beauty of the Virginia countryside. Whether you're seeking a peaceful retreat or a challenging adventure, Hanging Rock Overlook Trail has something for everyone to enjoy.

Tinker Cliffs is a stunning park located along the Appalachian National Scenic Trail in Troutville, Virginia, United States. This picturesque institution offers visitors the opportunity to immerse themselves in the beauty of nature, with breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. Whether you're looking to hike, relax, or simply take in the scenery, Tinker Cliffs is the perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts of all ages. Come explore this hidden gem and experience the wonders of the great outdoors at Tinker Cliffs.

Wayside Park is a charming outdoor recreational area located at 5880 West Main Street in Salem, Virginia. This beautiful park offers a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of city life, with well-maintained walking trails, picnic areas, and playgrounds for visitors of all ages to enjoy. Whether you're looking to go for a leisurely stroll, have a family picnic, or simply relax in nature, Wayside Park is the perfect destination. With its convenient location and serene atmosphere, this park is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike to unwind and connect with the great outdoors.

Riverside Park is a beautiful recreational area located along East Riverside Drive in Salem, Virginia, United States. This sprawling park offers a variety of amenities such as walking trails, playgrounds, picnic areas, and sports fields, making it the perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts of all ages. Surrounded by lush greenery and overlooking the scenic Roanoke River, Riverside Park provides a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. Whether you're looking to relax with a leisurely stroll or engage in some friendly competition on the basketball court, Riverside Park has something for everyone to enjoy.

Ghent Hill Park is a charming and picturesque park located on Wasena Avenue Southwest in Roanoke, Virginia, United States. This beautiful park is a popular tourist attraction, offering visitors a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. With lush greenery, scenic walking trails, and stunning views of the surrounding area, Ghent Hill Park is the perfect spot for a relaxing afternoon outdoors. Whether you're looking to enjoy a leisurely stroll, have a picnic with loved ones, or simply take in the natural beauty of the area, Ghent Hill Park is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike.

Piedmont Park, located at 102 Riverview Boulevard Southeast in Roanoke, Virginia, is a beautiful and well-maintained park managed by the City of Roanoke’s Department of Parks and Recreation (PLAY Roanoke). This nationally accredited municipal agency oversees nearly 13,000 acres of public land and offers a wide range of recreational opportunities to the Roanoke Valley community. With 51 parks, eight plazas, seven greenways, two outdoor swimming pools, eight recreation centers, and over 100 miles of trails, Piedmont Park is a popular destination for outdoor activities and relaxation. Recent improvements include the completion of a rerouted Arrowhead trail at Carvins Cove and the construction of ADA sidewalk access at Eastgate Park and Belmont Park playgrounds. Whether you're looking to enjoy a picnic, go for a hike, or simply unwind in nature, Piedmont Park is the perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle of city life.

Nestled just below Patrick Henry High School in Roanoke, Virginia, Shrine Hill Park is a picturesque and popular tourist attraction. This park features a section of the Murray Run Greenway, perfect for leisurely strolls or bike rides. Visitors can also enjoy playing tennis on the three ADA accessible courts, which were updated in 2023. With its scenic surroundings and convenient location, Shrine Hill Park is a must-visit destination for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.

Riverside Park is a picturesque park located at 1223 West Riverside Drive in Salem, Virginia, United States. Situated along the scenic Roanoke River, this park offers a peaceful retreat for visitors to enjoy nature and outdoor activities. With its lush greenery, walking trails, and river views, Riverside Park is the perfect spot for picnics, leisurely strolls, and family gatherings. Whether you're looking to relax by the water, explore the natural beauty of the area, or simply soak in the tranquility of the surroundings, Riverside Park is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike.

Dragon's Tooth Trail is a stunning hiking destination located along the Appalachian National Scenic Trail in Catawba, Virginia, United States. This park offers visitors the opportunity to embark on a challenging and rewarding hike up to the iconic Dragon's Tooth rock formation, which offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. With its rugged terrain and diverse wildlife, Dragon's Tooth Trail is a must-visit destination for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. Whether you're looking for a leisurely stroll or a more strenuous adventure, this park has something for everyone to enjoy. Immerse yourself in the beauty of the great outdoors at Dragon's Tooth Trail.

Falling Springs Falls is a picturesque park located in Hot Springs, Virginia, United States. The park features a stunning waterfall that cascades down the rocks, creating a serene and beautiful natural setting. Visitors can enjoy hiking trails, picnic areas, and scenic overlooks that offer breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. Whether you're looking to relax in nature or explore the great outdoors, Falling Springs Falls is the perfect destination for a day of fun and relaxation.

Intervale Trailhead is located at 1903 Dressler Drive in Covington, Virginia, United States. This park is home to Virginia's newest and most scenic rails-to-trails project, the Jackson River Scenic Trail. The trail follows an old railroad bed along the Jackson River, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and river. Visitors can easily access the trail from downtown Covington, making it a popular spot for walking, jogging, and biking. The trail also provides close-up views of the river, which is a popular recreational destination for activities like canoeing, kayaking, and tubing. Local outfitters can assist with bike rentals, shuttles, and river adventures.

The George Washington & Jefferson National Forest is a sprawling park located in Millboro, Virginia, United States. Covering over 1.8 million acres, this institution offers visitors a chance to explore diverse ecosystems, including old-growth forests, pristine streams, and rugged mountains. Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy a variety of recreational activities such as hiking, camping, fishing, and wildlife viewing. With its breathtaking scenery and abundant natural beauty, the George Washington & Jefferson National Forest is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and adventurers alike.

Whispering Pines Campground is a charming retreat nestled in the heart of Clifton Forge, Virginia, United States. This idyllic campground offers a peaceful escape surrounded by lush pine trees and scenic nature trails. Guests can choose from a variety of lodging options including tent sites, RV hookups, and cozy cabins. The campground also features a range of amenities such as a swimming pool, picnic areas, and a playground for children. Whether you're looking to relax in the great outdoors or explore the nearby attractions, Whispering Pines Campground is the perfect destination for a memorable getaway.

Wysong Park is a beautiful outdoor recreational space located on West Main Street in Fincastle, Virginia, United States. This park offers a peaceful and serene environment for visitors to enjoy nature, relax, and engage in various outdoor activities. With well-maintained walking trails, picnic areas, and playgrounds, Wysong Park is the perfect destination for families, friends, and individuals looking to unwind and connect with the great outdoors. Whether you're looking to go for a leisurely stroll, have a picnic with loved ones, or simply enjoy the fresh air, Wysong Park is the ideal spot to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

Read Mountain Preserve is a stunning park and tourist attraction located at 6101 Crumpacker Drive in Roanoke, Virginia, United States. This beautiful preserve offers visitors a chance to explore the natural beauty of the area, with hiking trails, scenic overlooks, and opportunities to spot local wildlife. Whether you're looking for a peaceful escape in nature or a fun day out with the family, Read Mountain Preserve is the perfect destination. Come and discover the beauty of this hidden gem in the heart of Virginia.

Located at 205 Thrasher Road in Buchanan, Virginia, the Upper James River Water Trail is a beloved institution dedicated to sharing the beauty and majesty of the Upper James and Maury Rivers with others. Spanning 74 miles, the water trail offers a variety of sections for paddlers, anglers, and families to explore. Filled with useful tips and insider information, the institution provides safety tips and water levels to ensure a safe and enjoyable adventure. The mighty James River begins its journey in Botetourt County, winding through the Blue Ridge Mountains and southern Shenandoah Valley before reaching the Chesapeake Bay. The unspoiled beauty of the river is easily accessible through the Upper James River Water Trail, allowing visitors to experience the mountains like never before.

Moneta Park is a charming outdoor recreational space located on Rucker Road in Moneta, Virginia, United States. This beautiful park offers a variety of amenities such as walking trails, picnic areas, playgrounds, and open green spaces perfect for enjoying a relaxing day in nature. Visitors can take in the scenic views, have a leisurely stroll, or have a fun-filled day with family and friends. Moneta Park is the ideal destination for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life and immerse themselves in the peaceful surroundings of this lovely park.