"First one in the lake wins!" yells a doughy middle-aged dad as he gracelessly gallops and eventually splashes down into Fairy Stone Lake. A gang of kids laugh and clap on the beach, barely containing their excitement as they race in after him.
A rainbow of towels and blanket picnics sprinkle the beach. Children climb over a giant raft, test their balance, push each other off, and jump as they cool off in the mountain lake. At the concession stand, a staffer hands an ice cream and a basket of fries over the counter. Some teenagers dramatically dive for the ball on the sandy volleyball court.
This beach scene is one of the reasons families flock to parks in Patrick County for day trips and longer camping excursions. Fairy Stone is just one of many gorgeous recreation spots to explore in the Blue Ridge Mountains. Read on to discover why you want to make your next destination a Patrick County park.
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Fairy Stone State Park
967 Fairystone Lake Dr., Stuart, VA 24171
One of the six original Virginia state parks, Fairy Stone has a lot to offer in its 4,639 acres. The lake is a big draw, and not just for the incredible swim beach. For a fee, rent a kayak, canoe pedal boat, or stand-up paddle board and explore the waters up to the small dam separating it from Philpott Lake.
On land, there are 10 miles of multi-use trails to explore. Hikers, bikers, and horseback riders alike traverse the steep steps of the Mountain View Trail or tackle the 4.1-mile Little Falls Trail. The small stream suddenly takes a 20-foot drop and cascades into Little Mountain Falls, rewarding day trippers with an incredible sight, cool waters to splash in, and a great backdrop for a photo.
Many venture to the park to try their luck at finding their own fairy stone. Legend has it these pinkish, cross-shaped staurolite minerals–a combination of silica, iron and aluminum–grew from the tear drops of fairies. They are said to bring good luck, prevent illness, and even thwart a witch’s curse. Though they can also be found in parts of North Carolina and Switzerland, here in Fairy Stone State Park the stones are plentiful for eagle-eyed hunters. Hint: look towards the roots of trees. If you strike out, you can find one already polished and on a lanyard at a local gift shop.
Size of park: 4,639 acres
Top Three Things to Do:
- Hunt for Fairy Stones
- Hike
- Explore the lake
Where/How to Stay: Rent a lodge or cabin, glamp in a yurt, or bring your RV and tent to the full service campground.
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I.C. Dehart Park
2631 Charity Highway, Woolwine, VA
Mountain bikers, this park is for you. Fifteen miles of an almost entirely tight, twisty singletract trail system challenges bikers with moderate climbs, rock gardens, and remote scenery by Little Widgeon Creek. The Woolwine East Loop is the longest ride at 8.7 miles. Those looking for a more difficult, but shorter route should opt for the 5.8-mile Woolwine West Loop. Check the map before embarking on your trip for colored blazes that lead to bailout loops. Fun fact: The USA Cycling Mountain Bike Virginia State Championship Bootlegger’s Blitz is held here annually.
No worries if you didn’t bring a bike. Hike the Woolwine loops, just keep an eye out for your friends on wheels. Picnic under the shade of the generous shelter by the playground. Pick up a racquet and play a few sets of tennis at the two courts. Or try your hand at horseshoes. Pad down the paved walking path to the information board where you can learn more about the meadow and wetland area of the park.
Size of Park: 600 acres
Top Three Things To Do:
- Mountain Bike
- Play Tennis
- Picnic
Where to Stay:
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Fred Clifton Park
8550 Jeb Stuart Highway, Meadows of Dan
This small park packs a big punch with its spectacular views. A short drive on U.S. Route 58 from Meadows of Dan, Fred Clifton Park features a ridge top forest that clears to one of the best spots to see the northern Blue Ridge Mountains.
Picnic in a thicket of rhododendrons before exploring the short trails. You’ll have plenty of shade beneath oaks, maples, and sassafras and most likely will catch sight of swallowtail butterflies along with a host of birds and other wildlife (please watch for bears).
Soak in the scene from the park’s three wooden outlook platforms. At an elevation of 2,930 feet, some say this is the best view of the valley in the area. The other is just a quarter mile hike or drive to Lover’s Leap Scenic Overlook.
Lover’s Leap offers a wide, grand view of the valley that’s lush, green and blue during the day and truly spectacular at sunset. The beautiful rocks and wildflowers you see were also the last sights seen by young lovers in the 1600s. Local legend says that the son of a white colonist and Morning Flower, the Native American daughter of the chief, were love-struck. After being threatened and shunned, the pair jumped into the wild blue yonder ensuring they would be together forever. Leave the leaping to the legend. Take a lover’s selfie instead.
Park Size: 75 acres
Top Three Things to Do:
- Picnic
- Hike to Lover’s Leap
- Hike to Overlooks
Where to Stay: Meadows of Dan Campground
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Other Patrick County Parks to Explore:
Rocky Knob Recreation Area,
1670 Blue Ridge Pkwy, Floyd, VA 24091
Mayo River Rail Trail,
636 Commerce St, Stuart, VA 24171