Shenandoah Valley Region = The Virginian Adventure
Douthat State Park
Douthat State Park was one of six original state parks located off of I-64 near Clifton Forge. During the Franklin D. Roosevelt administration, 600 men with the Civilian Conservation Corps lived and worked at the park, building the facilities from 1933 to 1942, including the dam and spillway.
Outdoor adventures include:
- Trails for mountain biking, regular biking, hiking
- Freshwater fishing and pier
- Swimming - Sandy Beach!
- Boating (not motorboats)
- Rent paddleboats, jonboats, kayaks, canoes.
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Raymond R. "Andy" Guest Jr. Shenandoah River State Park
Along the south fork of the Shenandoah River, the Shenandoah River State Park features spectacular vistas overlooking Massanutten Mountain and the Shenandoah National Park.
Outdoor adventures include:
- Trails for biking, hiking, horseback
- Primitive camping with many canoe-in or walk-in sites
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Sky Meadows State Park
Just an hour's drive from Washington, D.C., Sky Meadows State Park has rolling pastures and woodlands, perfect for horseback riding. During the Civil War, Gen. J.E.B. Stuart spent time in the area.
Outdoor adventures include:
- Trails for horseback riding on your own horse, hiking
- Access to the Appalachian Trail
- Primitive camping, hike-in campground
- Freshwater fishing
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Northern
Lake Anna State Park
Once known as "Gold Hill," the land of Lake Anna State Park was the site for many gold strikes in the 1800s. In 1972, Lake Anna was created as a water coolant for Virginia Power's nuclear plant.
Outdoor adventures include:
- Trails for biking, hiking, horseback
- Camping and Cabins
- Swimming - Beach
- Boating
- Freshwater fishing
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Leesylvania State Park
Leesylvania State Park was known locally as Freestone Point, where early settlers got their sandstone. Henry Lee II lived on the property from 1747 until his death in 1787. Eight of his children were born here, including Henry Lee III, "Light Horse Harry," the father of Robert E. Lee. Primitive camping is available for groups who make prior arrangements.
Outdoor adventures include:
- Trails for biking, hiking, horseback
- Freshwater fishing
- Boating
- Rent canoes and kayaks
- Sailing School
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Mason Neck State Park
Mason Neck State Park is located on a peninsula where an active heron rookery exists. Group camping is available with prior arrangements.
Outdoor adventures include:
- Hiking and biking trails
- Freshwater fishing
- Boating
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Images Courtesy of Virginia State Parks
For more information on wildlife management areas and natural preserves, please visit the Department of Conservation & Recreation!