These 8 Central Virginia State Parks are Hidden Gems

When you're exploring Central Virginia, you won't have to go far to find outdoor adventure. Not far from these Virginia State Parks are cities, small towns, mountains, and yes, even beaches to explore.

Here are some of our favorite state parks in Central Virginia. 

James River State Park — Gladstone

Aptly named for the river that flows along its three-mile western edge, James River State Park is 1,500 acres of meadows and woods with 13 riverfront primitive camping sites. Guests here will also have the choice of cabins, lodges, and water and electric camp sites. There are 15 miles of hiking, biking, and bridle trails, some of which are wheelchair accessible. A variety of picnic shelters can be found for day-use visitors, and a canoe livery offers kayak, canoe and tube rentals and shuttle service for those who'd like to spend time on the water. 

Holliday Lake State Park — Appomattox

This state park is popular for both swimming and fishing, with a large lake complete with a sandy beach area and stocked with bluegill, largemouth bass, and crappie. Rent a canoe, kayak, or paddle boat to enjoy the fun on top of the water. In fact, the Sunfish Aquatic Trail will introduce you to points along the lake from the lake. Pick up a brochure at the park office. Camping for a variety of rigs is available, as is a group camping area and a bunkhouse.

Twin Lakes State Park — Green Bay

Twin Lakes State Park is just that, a park with two lakes, perfect for fishing, swimming, and lakeside picnics. Waterfront and wooded cabins are available, as are camp sites for tents and campers.RVs up to 36-feet long can be accommodated at this park. Lakeside and wooded trails are perfect for wildlife watching and exercise.

High Bridge Trail State Park — Farmville

This day-use state park is a 31-mile long multi-use rail trail coursing through three counties with the 1853 railroad bridge as its centerpiece. There is no camping at this park, but others nearby make this a great day trip.

Powhatan State Park — Powhatan

The 1,565-acre Powhatan State Park on the James River is one of Virginia's newer state parks. The park offers picnicking, trails, a playground, and boat launches along the 2.5-miles of river frontage. You can also reserve one of the yurts or campsites to get the overnight experience at this park. 

Sailor's Creek Battlefield Historic State Park — Rice

A day-use historic park, Sailor's Creek Battlefield was the site of the April 6, 1865 battle in which Robert E. Lee's Army of Northern Virginia suffered the death, wounding, and capture of 7,700 men. Just days later, Lee surrendered to Ulysses S. Grant at Appomattox Court House. Pack a picnic to enjoy while you take in the history. Two trails allow you to experience the lay of the land. 

Bear Creek Lake State Park — Cumberland

The 40-acre lake is the highlight of this 329-acre park. Wooded, Bear Creek Lake State Park is a great destination to chill out in Central Virginia. The beach area has nearby shade with a playground and concessions making it a great all-day place for families. Various watercraft are available for rent as well. Tent campers will enjoy lakeside sites. Group campsites, sites for larger campers, and cabins are available as well. 

Pocahontas State Park — Chesterfield

Pocahontas State Park is a premier mountain biking state park with more than 50 miles of trails of varying difficulty across its 8,115 acres. Two lakes are great for fishing and boating. Watercraft are available for rent. There is no lake swimming at Pocahontas, but rather, a family-fun Aquatic Center that includes several pools, toddler area, and water slides. Camping at Pocahontas is available for tents, groups, and RVs up to 65-feet in length. There are unequipped camping cabins, meaning you will need to bring everything with you. The cabins do not have a kitchen or bathroom.