9 Epic Outdoor Vacation Ideas in Virginia for Adventure Lovers
Seeking thrilling ways to experience Virginia's natural wonders—from mountaintops and waterways to rugged trails? These nine curated outdoor vacation ideas offer unforgettable adventures for nature enthusiasts.
— HIKE VIRGINIA'S HIGHEST PEAK —
Mount Rogers. Photo by [email protected]
Base your trip around Mount Rogers, Virginia's tallest peak at 5,729 feet. Nestled in the Mount Rogers National Recreation Area, it spans 191,000 acres with campgrounds, cabins, two lakes, and 50 miles of streams for exploration.
While You're There:
- Hike sections of the iconic Appalachian Trail.
- Catch an outdoor movie at Park Place Drive-In.
- Sample local spirits at Appalachian Mountain Spirits.
- Explore Historic Downtown Marion, featuring the Lincoln Theatre and the historic 1927 General Francis Marion Hotel.
- Spot wild ponies at Grayson Highlands State Park.
- Ride the scenic Virginia Creeper Trail from Whitetop Station.
ALSO SEE: Virginia's Five Highest Peaks
— GET MUDDY ON THE SPEARHEAD TRAILS —
Spearhead Trails
Southwest Virginia's Spearhead Trails system currently features three open trails, with a fourth opening this fall. Towns like Saint Paul, Pocahontas, and Grundy warmly welcome ATV enthusiasts with top-notch hospitality.
While You're There:
- Grundy: Marvel at overlooks in Breaks Interstate Park on the KY-VA border.
- Pocahontas: Visit the Pocahontas Exhibition Mine & Museum in this historic mining town.
- Saint Paul: Relax on the Clinch River with tubing, kayaking, or paddleboarding via Clinch River Adventures. Hike or bike the Sugar Hill Loop Trail at Oxbow Lake Park.
ALSO SEE: Virginia's Scenic Rivers
— GO WILD IN NORTHERN VIRGINIA —
The view from Sky Meadows State Park
The G. Richard Thompson Wildlife Management Area in Markham covers nearly 4,000 acres along the Blue Ridge Mountains' eastern slope (elevations 700-2,200 feet). Adjacent Sky Meadows State Park adds more terrain and camping options. Highlights include seven miles of the Appalachian Trail, leading south to Compton Gap on Skyline Drive in Shenandoah National Park.
While You're There:
- Fish the stocked 10-acre Thompson Lake with a Virginia fishing license and trout stamp. Check Access Permit details.
- In late summer, pick peaches along The Peach Way trail, featuring five orchards in five miles.
- Drive the legendary Skyline Drive via Route 55 from Linden to skip I-66. Tip: Stop at The Apple House!
— HEAD FOR THE ALLEGHENIES —
Lake Moomaw
Lake Moomaw in Bath County boasts over 2,500 acres, created by Gathright Dam. Anglers target trout, bass, and perch, while hikers enjoy 43 miles of undeveloped shoreline. Camp at Bolar Mountain, McClintic Point (north), Greenwood Point (primitive, boat/foot access, mid-lake), or Morris Hill (south).
While You're There:
- Visit Falling Spring, Virginia's most accessible and stunning waterfall.
- Discover the geological wonder of Blowing Springs.
- Soak in the historic Jefferson Pools hot springs.
— CHOOSE YOUR SPOT ALONG PHILPOTT LAKE —
Philpott Lake
This 3,000-acre reservoir straddles Henry and Franklin Counties, surrounded by parks with campgrounds (Philpott, Deer Island [primitive, boat access], Jamison Mill, Horseshoe Point, Salthouse Branch, Goose Point), beaches, and boat ramps. Take a virtual tour.
While You're There:
- Hike local trails based on your basecamp.
- Fish for bass.
- Rent canoes or kayaks from Smith River Outfitters (advance booking required).
- Search for fairy stones at Fairy Stone State Park.
ALSO SEE: Three Southern Virginia State Parks for Water & History
— WALK (CAREFULLY) AMONG TIGER BEETLES —
Bethel Beach Natural Area Preserve
This 83-acre preserve protects the endangered Northeastern Beach Tiger Beetle, birds, and rare plants. Tread lightly, leave no trace—no digging, biking, swimming, or unleashed dogs.
While You're There:
- Enjoy sunset Chesapeake Bay tours at The Inn at Tabbs Creek; book the Chesapeake Suite for views.
- Camp or cabin at New Point RV Resort.
- Paddle to New Point Comfort Lighthouse with Bay Country Kayaking.
— SEE THE FAMOUS CHINCOTEAGUE PONIES —
Pony Watching from the Assateague Channel
Home of Misty of Chincoteague, Chincoteague Island and the National Wildlife Refuge host wild ponies. Catch the July pony swim or book boat tours year-round.
While You're There:
- Secure lodging on the island.
- Relax on Assateague Island National Seashore beaches.
- Climb the Assateague Lighthouse.
— PADDLE BACK BAY AND GREAT DISMAL —
Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge
Paddle Lake Drummond in Great Dismal Swamp and Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge for wildlife viewing and serenity. Book kayak tours: Adventure Kayak Tours for Dismal Swamp (includes lunch), or Wild River Outfitters, Kayak Nature Tours, or Sandbridge Eco Sports for Back Bay.
While You're There:
- Bike or walk the 8.5-mile Dismal Swamp Canal Trail.
- Hike to False Cape State Park's pristine Atlantic beaches (backcountry camping).
- Stay at North Bay Shore Family Campground with boat/canoe rentals.
ALSO SEE: Six Coastal & Bay State Parks You Need to Make a Beeline For
— GET ACQUAINTED WITH VIRGINIA'S OUTDOORSY CAPITAL —
Kayaking on the James River in Richmond
Don't overlook Richmond—named America's Best River Town by Outside magazine in 2012 and improving since. Use the James River Park System map for prime spots.
While You're There:
- Raft Class I-V rapids downtown with Riverside Outfitters.
- Bike the challenging Buttermilk Trail.
- Stroll The Wetlands boardwalk for birdwatching.
- Extend to Chesterfield's Pocahontas State Park trails or Dutch Gap paddling.
ALSO SEE: Five Urban Virginia Outdoor Hot Spots
