Discover 4 Unusual Hidden Gems in Virginia State Parks
While Virginia's popular attractions are great, sometimes you crave something off the beaten path. Explore these unique sights at Virginia State Parks for an unforgettable adventure without breaking the bank.
Virginia State Parks offer affordable entry—typically just a $5 parking fee per vehicle (view fees here)—making them perfect for budget-friendly exploration.
1. Saltpeter Cave at Natural Bridge State Park
Located at Natural Bridge State Park, Saltpeter Cave was once leased by Thomas Jefferson for extracting potassium nitrate from bat and bird droppings. This key ingredient was used to produce gunpowder.
- The 'saltpeter myth' claims the U.S. Army used it as an anti-aphrodisiac for recruits—Snopes debunks this as false.
- Potassium nitrate, a crystalline salt resembling table salt, occurs naturally as nitre and has been used historically as a diuretic and remedy for ailments like stomach issues and arthritis.
- The cave is viewable from outside only. For cavern tours, visit nearby Natural Bridge Caverns (not affiliated with state parks).
2. Pirate's Booty at First Landing State Park
Geocaching at First Landing State Park might lead to discoveries like old-growth trees or scenic lookouts—and legend says Blackbeard the Pirate hid treasure in the Bald Cypress Swamp. These swamps provided fresh water for pirates, merchants, and ships during the War of 1812, with the Narrows area used as a hideout and during the Civil War.
Each spring, new caches are hidden in Virginia State Parks. Enjoy nature, fun, and potential rewards.
- Geocaching rewards in Virginia State Parks
- More on geocaching and Virginia State Parks
- Self-guided activities
3. Historic Bateau Boat at James River State Park
View a replica of the flat-bottomed bateau boat at James River State Park, invented to navigate the James River alongside the Kanawha Canal for easier transport to Richmond.
- In service c. 1650–1850; 24–50 feet long; propelled by pole-wielding bateaumen.
- Historians recreate them annually at the James River Bateau Festival (next: June 16–23, 2018).
- George Washington noted bateaux in his 1791 diary. No originals survive, but replicas offer cruises nationwide. From 1820–1840, 500 bateaux and 1,500 bateaumen operated the James River route.
4. Trash to Treasure Art at Caledon State Park
Caledon State Park draws birdwatchers for bald eagles along the Potomac, but shoreline trash is a challenge. Volunteers clean it up, and each April's Trash to Treasure Art Contest turns debris into art.
Event: Saturday, April 21, 2018, noon–4 p.m. at the picnic shelter.
- Clean the beach, then craft art from trash. Team or solo entries welcome.
- Prizes awarded by judges. Co-sponsored by Fredericksburg Center for Creative Arts. Call 540-663-3861 for info.
Book overnight stays here or call 800-933-7275. Explore more events here. Visit these unique spots in Virginia State Parks today.
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Written by Shellie Anne for Virginia State Parks.
Featured image courtesy of Virginia State Parks.
