Tucked neatly into the heart of Virginia near the North Carolina border, Staunton River offers much to families and outdoor enthusiasts of all ages. The park was built by the Civilian Conservation Corps in the 1930s and was opened in 1936 as one of the original six Virginia State Parks. The 2,400 acre park offers cabins, a campground, picnic shelters, a large playground, tennis and volleyball courts, boat ramps, many opportunities to observe wildlife, and 12 miles of multi use trails. Access to the Dan and Staunton Rivers and Virginias largest lake, Buggs Island Lake, offers excellent freshwater fishing and boating opportunities while the large swimming pool complex in the park offers a simple solution to those hot summer days! A 70-foot water slide and many fun toys for the kids make the swimming pool a spot that you dont want to miss.
Outdoor Recreation Award for: Amazing Spots, Biking Trails, Bird Watching, Canoeing, Educational & Historical Facilities, Fishing, Hiking, Picnic Areas, Romantic Spots, Scenic Views, Tours & Events, Unique Cabins, Water Recreation
Activities At This Destination: Hiking, Biking, Boating and Water Sports, Camping, Educational Activities, Fishing, Gifts and Shopping, Horseback Riding, Hunting, Picnicking, Swimming, Wildlife Activities, Photography and Canoeing And Kayaking
The Captain Staunton Trail is a 0.7 mile, easy, interpretive hiking loop that is accessible from the main park road near the Visitor's Center as well as from the River Bank Trail. This easy trail goes through the woods, passing several signs interpreting local wildlife and history. When the trail reaches the River Bank Trail there is a short return loop before returning to the trail head.
Blaze Color: Red
Usage:
The Crow's Nest Trail is a 0.2 mile easy, multi use trail. It connects the Riverbank Trail to the Robin's Roost Trail. This short trail passes through wooded areas and clearings near the main park road, crossing it and reaching the Riverbank Trail. The earthen trail is fairly wide but gets narrow in places. When combined with portions of the other two trails, this trail makes a nice loop of about 2 miles in length.
Blaze Color: Orange
Usage:
The River Bank Trail is a 8.3 mile, moderate difficulty, multi-use trail that runs around the park's perimeter and is popular with equestrians. The trail is accessible from every trail in the park except the Tutelo Trail. This trail runs through the wooded areas around the park, going up and down some fairly steep hills, and usually running near the Dan and Staunton Rivers. The trail features an overlook of Buggs Island Lake along with numerous photo opportunities. Portions of the trail pass over wooden bridges, where some equestrians may choose to walk their horses.
Blaze Color: Dark Blue
Usage:
The Robin's Roost Trail is a 1.1 mile easy, multi-use trail that is accessible from the Riverbank Trail and the Crow's Nest Trail. This path takes users from Riverbank Trail, crosses the main park road, then becomes narrower and passes the Crow's Nest Trail before reaching the other end of the Riverbank Trail. There are some moderate changes in elevation near the River Bank Trail where the trail increases in difficulty.
Blaze Color: Yellow
Usage:
The Tutelo Trail is a .1 mile, easy hiking trail that serves primarily as a connector trail. The trail connects picnic area 1 to the Visitor's Center and pool area, crossing a small bridge and the Riverbank Trail in the process. This trail runs parallel to some power lines and as such has a wide margin of cleared land to either side of the trail.
Blaze Color: White
Usage:
The Twin Loops Trail is a 2.5 mile, moderate difficulty multi-use trail, that is accessible from the horse parking lot and the Riverbank Trail. Consistent with its name, the trail is made up of two loops that wander through wooded areas, up and down several hills, and across a number of creeks. In places, this potentially confusing trail runs on wide fire roads, and at other times it follows a rough narrow path with occasional obstacles that can be particularly challenging to bicyclists. Follow the blazes and be prepared for the twists and turns to avoid wandering off this trail.
Blaze Color: Pink
Usage:
The park's amphitheater is located behind the newly renovated Visitor's Center. While it is mainly used for park programs, the amphitheater is available for rent for special events, such as weddings. There is limited seating available, but plenty of open space for lawn chairs or blankets. A fire ring is located next to the amphitheater. This fire ring is used in park programming, but can be used by the public for outdoor fires for your special event. For more information on using the amphitheater or for the programs running at the amphitheater, please call the Visitor's Center at 434-572-4623.
The park campground offers 48 campsites, a bathhouse with a washer and dryer, a bunkhouse, and a dump station. There are standard sites and water/electric sites that include sites that can accommodate large equipment. Reservations are recommended from May until September. If you wish to make specific site requests, please contact the Visitor's Center at 434-572-4623. Call 1-800-933-PARK to make reservations.
The Swimming Pool at Staunton River offers guests of all ages a cool solution to hot summer days. A concession stand offers pizza, hot dogs, cold drinks, ice cream, and other convenience foods and those often forgotten swimming necessities. Admission is sold through the concession stand and group and private rental rates are available. The pool facility includes a shallow wading pool for the little kids, complete with a frog slide, water snake, and other water toys. The Olympic sized pool features a 70-foot water slide that offers countless thrills to all ages and a small log slide for those who are not big enough or brave enough for the large slide. Located right outside of the pool complex are newly remodeled tennis courts and volleyball courts. The Visitor's Center is also located near the pool complex.
Near the Dan River, this shelter provides a shady setting for reunions, picnics and other special events. It accommodates up to 60 comfortably. There is a spigot that allows access to potable water and a large grill at the back of the shelter. There's no deck but there is a graveled area by the grill. This shelter offers no view of the river; access to the river is limited. A walk of about two minutes brings you to the river. The shelter is near a playground and trash disposal, and bathrooms are about five minutes away. This shelter offers access to the Visitor's Center, Pool Area, and tennis and volleyball courts via the Tutelo Trail, a 5-10 minute walk. First-come, first-served picnic tables that can be used to accommodate more people are around shelter.
Beside the Dan River, this shelter provides a shady setting for reunions, picnics and other special events. It accommodates up to 60 comfortably. There is a spigot that allows access to potable water and a large grill at the back of the shelter. This shelter has a spacious deck near the grill and offers a waterfront view and easy access to the water. Also, the shelter features a playground and trash disposal, and handicapped accessible bathrooms are only a short distance away. The shelter is not, however, equipped with a ramp for easy access by the handicapped. Spacious grounds for softball, badminton, soccer, etc., are nearby. Guests must provide their own equipment.
The park's original Visitor's Center was built by the Civilian Conservation Corps in the 1930's. This facility opened with the rest of the park in 1936 and has served as both a Visitor's Center and a restaurant over the years. In 1995, the Visitor's Center was closed for renovations. 2009 marks the reopening of the Visitor's Center and our entire staff is excited about this turning point in the park's history! The Visitor's Center will house exhibits, an interpretive classroom, park staff offices, the new Gift Shop, and overnight guest registration. We look forward to sharing this new facility with you and your family in the coming months!
Picnic Area two is waterfront to the Dan River. There is a small car top launch available in the Picnic Area that can be used when the water level is not too low. Picnic Area two offers plenty of parking and lots of shade. There is a large open field available for baseball, kickball, or a game of tag. There is a handicapped accessible bathroom in Picnic Area two as well as a horse shoe pit (you do need to provide your own horseshoes). Picnic Area two features a new, handicapped accessible playground for kids of all ages. This picnic area is a haven for shore fisherman, as there is lots of access to the shoreline. Spring and summer days see the banks of Picnic Area two dotted with fishermen and their poles waiting to catch "the big one".
The cabins are equipped with the following for your convenience: microwaves, coffeemakers, living areas, fireplaces, charcoal grills, heat pumps, central heat and air, refrigerators, stoves, kitchen utensils, linens, and towels. Overnight fees include one day of free swimming (summer season only) for every night spent in the cabin, parking, and boat launching. There is a $10 per pet per night pet fee should you bring your pet. This fee can be paid with your reservation or upon your arrival at the park. The cabins are rented on a two night minimum during the off and mid seasons (March Memorial Day and September-December). From Memorial Day until Labor Day, the cabins are rented on a weekly basis.
After hours rental of the pool complex is available by application only. This application is available at the Visitor's Center and reservations must be made at least two weeks in advance. All parking fees still apply and must be paid the day of your event either at the Visitor's Center by arrangement or through the contact station or honor parking.For more information on reserving the pool complex after hours, please call the Visitor's Center at 434-572-4623.
Both mini shelters are located in Picnic Area #1 and are available for rent from May until October for $20 through the Reservation Center. The rental period runs from 8 am until 10 pm. They can also be used on a first come, first served basis with no fee like the picnic shelters. Both mini shelters provide a covered picnic site near bathrooms with one six foot and one twelve foot picnic table and grill. The mini shelters will comfortably seat approximately 20 people.
The Gift Shop is located in the newly renovated Visitor's Center. The Gift Shop is the perfect place to get that just right souvenir or that one item that you forgot to pack on your vacation. You can also purchase your hunting and fishing licenses in The Gift Shop. We invite everyone to come and take a look around the new Visitor's Center as well as the new Gift Shop at Staunton River State Park.
The Camping Lodge (or bunkhouse) can be rented through the Reservation Center and it is $84 per night for VA residents and $93 per night for non-residents. The Camping Lodge sleeps 14 in bunk beds and can sleep an additional 6 in a tent outside. There is a refrigerator and microwave provided. Guests must use the campground bathhouse. The Camping Lodge features heat and a/c. There is a $10 per pet per night pet fee if you wish to bring your pet. This fee can be paid when you make your reservation or upon your arrival at the park.
For those with larger motorboats there is a motorboat launch on the Dan River. The motorboat launch has ample parking and pit toilets are located nearby. Those using the motorboat launch are required to pay necessary fees. This facility may not be accessible if the water level is too high or low. If your visit depends on the ability to launch your boat, please call the park in advance. Both motorized and non-motorized boats are permitted on Buggs Island Lake.The park also offers 2 car top boat launches for smaller boats on both the Dan and Staunton rivers. If the water level drops below 292', the boat launch will not be usable. To check the lake level, visit www.kerrlake.com
Picnic Area 1 is a large area, but is divided into spaces. The mini shelters are in this area, near the bathrooms. There is also a large covered picnic shelter in Picnic Area 1. This area offers access to the Dan River shoreline, but is not waterfront. Picnic Area 1 offers access to the Visitor's Center and the Pool Complex vis the Tutelo Trail. This trail also offers access to the newly renovated tennis courts and volleyball courts (you do need to provide your own equipment for these activities). There is plenty of parking and plenty of shade in this picnic area. There is a playground located in this picnic area as well as a horse shoe pit (you do need to provide your own horseshoes).
CALLING ALL FAMILIES! COME OUT AND PLAY THIS SUMMER WITH COCA-COLA AND THE NATIONAL PARKSCoca-Cola North America
"America Is Your Park" campaign offers families across the country an opportunity to be active and support their favorite park |
Virginia State Parks Youth Corps Receives National AwardJim Meisner, Jr.
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Hey Teachers---We Can Bring the Outdoors IN!Staci Martin
As the department stores tout their "Back to School" sales and teachers begin filling out their plan books, Virginia State Parks is gearing up for the 2010 OUTREACH PROGRAM season. |
Virginia State Parks Continue Record High Visitation Through Independence Day WeekendVirginia Department of Conservation and Recreation
Virginia State Parks continued the year-long trend of record attendance with an Independence Day weekend attendance of 266,739, a 22 percent increase over last year’s previous record-high of 218,889. |
Virginia State Parks Receives 101 Outdoor AwardsNancy Heltman
For the eighth consecutive year, the 35 Virginia State Parks operated by the Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation have been recognized by ReserveAmerica as among the nation’s best. |
Signing up for a free membership on Virginia Outdoors has benefitsVirginia State Parks
A new program has been developed to encourage membership on Virginia Outdoors.com and with the Virginia Association for Parks. |
Take Dad to a Virginia State Park for Father's DayNancy Heltman
Maybe because I'm a girl but I always had trouble figuring out what to get my father for a gift. After all, you can only have so many ties. |
Have you planted a tree for Virginia State Parks yet?Paula Hill
For the past 2 years, along with your help, Odwalla has made a commitment to America's state parks by donating money to help plant trees. |
Volunteers NeededNancy Heltman
There are so many things we do better in Virginia State Parks because of our loyal and large cadre of volunteers. |
The To-Do List ChallengeStaci Martin
Last month, I challenged readers to make a "Virginia State Parks To-Do List" by visiting our events website at www.virginiastateparks.gov/ and selecting five things to do at Virginia State Parks. |
Virginia State Parks kicks off summer season with record high visitationVirginia State Parks
Virginia State Parks had a record-setting Memorial Day weekend with new highs in attendance and revenue, and even website traffic. |
Start voting for Virginia to receive trees donated by Odwalla's Plant a Tree program!Kristen Uerz
Start voting for Virginia to receive trees donated by Odwalla's Plant a Tree program! |
Staunton River State Park, A GREAT Place!Tom Cervenak
I just took a trip to Staunton River State Park in Scottsburg, Virginia. While at the park I got a tour of their facilities. |
Welcome to Virginia State Parks!Kristen Uerz
Planning a trip to your local State Park? If so, be sure to pick up the newest copy of the Park Visitor Welcome Kit. |
Focus is on the customerAmy Atwood
Memorial Day weekend marks the beginning of the summer season for those of us in Virginia State Parks. |
Free Trees for State Parks!!Kristen Uerz
Today's society is more connected than ever between Twitter, Facebook, and that Blackberry you never let out of your sight. Even helping the environment has gone hi-tech. |
Happy 40th Birthday Earth Day!Nancy Heltman
For Earth Day, America's State Parks offer the following birthday card. |
Virginia State Parks Geocaching Wildlife AdventureKristen Uerz
Although I myself am new to geocaching, I would like to get the word out about a new and fun geocaching game that all Virginia State Parks will be launching on March 29, 2010 that will run until December 15, 2010. |
Kids First Camping TripVirginia State Park Visitor
Last year 2009 my husband and I took our two kids ages 3 and 5 on their first camping trip to Staunton River State Park. |
Spring in Virginia State ParksNancy Heltman
In honor of the start of Spring, here are a few pictures to wet your appetite for a visit to a Virginia State Park. |
The Gradual AwakeningMichael Salotti
After a couple active snow storms this winter, the weather appears to be taking a turn for the better. |
Women’s Wellness Weekend Caters to Mind, Body & SpiritZoe Rogers
Women are looking for affordable vacations where they can leave their hectic lifestyles behind. |
State park and natural area preserve officers receive state accreditationNancy Heltman
Conservation Officers with the Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation this week received accreditation from the Virginia Law Enforcement Professional Standards Commission. |
Your Next Family ReunionNancy Heltman
Virginia's State Parks have always been fantastic family vacation spots. The parents can relax and unwind from their normally busy vacations while the kids enjoy swimming, boating, fishing, hiking or a variety of programs offered at the park. |
Helping WildlifeTom Cervenak
I started working for Virginia State Parks in 1986 and in a long career have had the chance to get up close with wildlife and working on enhancing it. |
Have you Volunteered Lately?Tom Cervenak
I just read a story that in the toughest of times, Americans are volunteering at a record rate. |
Soaring with the EaglesTom Cervenak
I just went to check out the "Eagle Cam" that is set up at the Norfolk Botanical Gardens on an active nest. This is really cool and several school groups were checking it out for education. |
Fight For Your ParksTom Cervenak
With shrinking budgets across our nation, one of the first things that is thought of to be cut is our parks. |
Don't Have a Camping Trailer?Tom Cervenak
I've done a lot of tent camping in my days and still do, but every now and then I want the camping experience without the tent camping part. |
Connecting Children with NatureTom Cervenak
Technology has been great in many ways, for instance I'm using it this very moment to communicate to an entire audience of people I don't really know. |
Camping at Virginia State ParksTom Cervenak
I've been camping at a lot of Virginia State Parks, some by myself, some with a dozen or so Boy Scouts and leaders. |
Time for FishingTom Cervenak
Almost all Virginia State Parks have some sort of body of water associated with them. |
One of my favorite hikes!Tom Cervenak
Spring has to be close now and as soon as we start having a few days in the 60's and 70's there will be a rush to get out to our great Virginia State Parks. |
An Interview with Del. Clay Athey: Should we close state parks?Dan McDermott - Warren County Report
Del. Athey says he does not support Gov. Robert McDonnell’s plan to close state parks and says it would not save money because they are profitable. |
2010 Ad Campaign for Virginia State ParksNancy Heltman
This year's theme is: "I Love Virginia State Parks." I thought you would all enjoy seeing the two television spots. |
CLAYTOR LAKE STATE PARK ADDS TO ATTENDANCE RECORD FOR 2009Jaimie Lomasney
Claytor Lake State Park added to the increase in visitation with 268,472 visitors in 2009, up 19,450 visitors from 2008. |
NEW RIVER TRAIL STATE PARK ADDS TO ATTENDANCE RECORD FOR 2009Jaimie Lomasney
New River Trail State Park added to the increase in visitation with 960,096 visitors in 2009, up 8,104 visitors from 2008. |
DOUTHAT STATE PARK ADDS TO ATTENDANCE RECORD FOR 2009Jaimie Lomasney
Douthat State Park added to the increase in visitation with 205,654 visitors in 2009, up 10,090 visitors from 2008. |
It's Showtime!Tom Cervenak
Virginia State Parks kicked off the promotional show season with the Washington Camping and RV Show (Jan. 15-17) at the Dulles Expo Center. |
Arizona Loses State TreasuresNancy Heltman
Arizona sold a dozen state buildings on a lease back arrangement just this week to try and make up their $2 billion deficit. On Friday the decision was made to close 21 of the 30 state parks to help close the gap. |
2009 Marks Record Virginia State Park AttendanceNancy Heltman
One aspect of the recession is that tight pocketbooks send families looking for lower cost vacation alternatives. |
Wanted - A Few Good Men and WomenNancy Heltman
The Virginia State Parks Office of Volunteer Services is part of the Operations Section that I manage. |
Staying on Our Game in the Off Season, Part IIStaci Martin
This is the second of a four-part series about what we do in parks during the off-season, Part II |
Most State Parks Report Camping Increase in 2009RVBusiness
A survey done by the NASPD (National Association of State Park Directors) have shown some great results. |
Start Planning Now for a Family Reunion VacationPat Eastwood
Unfortunately, with all the traveling, shopping, cooking, and general hustle and bustle of the season, families are often too busy to really connect with each other during the holiday season. |
FOCUS For Excellence Customer Service AwardsPaula Hill
Each year all state park employees participate in the Virginia State Park's FOCUS for Excellence customer service training program. |
A World of Thanks to our VolunteersNancy Heltman
I have mentioned before that we are deeply indebted to our volunteers in Virginia State Parks. |
Staying on our Game in the Off Season: Part 1Staci Martin
This is the first of a four-part series about what we do in parks during the off-season. |
Virginia State Parks Staff Recognized for ExcellenceNancy Heltman
Our Agency held two employee recognition events in the last month to honor employees who have made special contributions to Virginia State Parks. |
Give the Gift of Virginia State ParksNancy Heltman
If you are a shopping hater like me, or have folks on your gift list that love Virginia State Parks, we have cyber options for you! |
Winter Hiking at Holliday Lake State ParkSarah Lankford
With a few basic preparations, you and your family can enjoy winter hiking at Holliday Lake State Park or any state park in Virginia. |
Holiday Events at Virginia State ParksNancy Heltman
This year, Virginia State Parks has 13 of their State Parks offering special programs to celebrate the holiday season. |
Winter WonderlandNancy Heltman
The Park Manager at Staunton River State Park tells of how different the park and cabin guests are in the winter verses the rest of the year. |
What Will Your Children Remember?Nancy Heltman
Nancy Heltman of Virginia State Parks was a guest blogger for Bethe Almeras' Grass Stain Guru today. Here's the content. http://bit.ly/XYvuT
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How the West Was Won - Part VTom Cervenak
Take time to read highlights from Tom's visits and to five state Parks on the far west side of the state. This is the last in the series of five articles. |
Fishing and Fun, For the FundTom Cervenak
Each year State Park employees, some family members, volunteers and friends of parks get together on the Eastern Shore at Kiptopeke State Park for a very important event, The State Parks Benevolence Fund Fishing Tournament and Raffle. |
How the West was Won-Part IVTom Cervenak
Tom takes time to share highlights of his visits to Southwest Virginia Museum Historical State Park, Wilderness Road State Park, Natural Tunnel State Park, Grayson Highlands State Park and Hungry Mother State Park. |
Are You a Budding Les Stroud?Nancy Heltman
False Cape State Park invites the entire family for a fun-filled weekend of hiking and exploring Virginia’s Outer Banks while discovering tricks and tips on how to survive in the wilderness. |
State Parks Staff Meet with Saddle ClubNancy Heltman
Virginia State Parks staff met with representatives of the Halifax Saddle Club at Staunton River State Park to discuss approved funding for an equestrian campground. |
Winter Activities!Stephanie Allen
Staunton River State Park is excited to announce that it will be keeping four cabins open year round starting this winter. |
Are You a Lark or an Owl?Nancy Heltman
Regardless of whether you are a lark or owl, False Cape State Park has a kayak program right up your alley during the month of October. |
Virginia Association for Parks Web Site RennovationJohnny Finch
Johhny Finch, President, Virginia Association for Parks (VAFP) announces rennovation of VAFP website, its new companion virginiaoutdoors.net and dates and location for the 2010 Spring Conference. |
The Treasure Chest of the CommonwealthVSP
Explore what the Virginia State Parks have to offer. |
Civilian Conservation CorpsVSP
A look back at how jobs were created through the building of America's State Park System. |
National Public Lands Day Saturday, Sept 26th, 2009Luanne Lochner
National Public Lands Day is the nation’s largest hands-on volunteer effort to improve and enhance the public lands Americans enjoy. |
Fall at Virginia BeachNancy Heltman
Virginia Beach is a great destination year round and First Landing State Park makes an excellent base for visiting that resort city and the surrounding cities. |
How the West Was Won Part IITom Cervanak
Although the smallest Virginia State Park, the Southwest Virginia Museum State Park is packed with facinating historical treasures worth taking the time to explore. |
Apple Day at Douthat State ParkJaimie Lomasney
Apple Day, a Celebration of Appalachian Heritage at Douthat State Park is just around the corner on Saturday, Oct. 10, 2009 from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. |
Virginia State Parks Director Joe Elton elected President of the National Association of State Park DirectorsJim Meisner
Virginia State Parks Director Joe Elton was elected president of the National Association of State Park Directors (NASPD) at the NASPD annual meeting this week. |
National Association of State Park Directors Honor Individuals for Enhancing ParksVirginiaOutdoors
National Association of State Park Directors Honor Individuals for Enhancing Parks |
The Adventures of Virgil S PossumVirgil S Possum
Virgil S. Possum explores the Virginia State Parks and tells tales of his adventures. |
Trail QuestPaula Hill
Virginia State Parks soon to launch a great new program “Trail Quest – Explore Virginia State Parks One Step at a Time”. |
Information Stations in VA State ParksImperial Multimedia
In August of 2007, the Virginia State Parks successfully completed the launch of the nation’s first and most ambitious electronic interpretive information program specifically designed for visitors to a State Park system.
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Virginia State Parks Camping Made EasyVirginia State Parks
Virginia State Parks Camping Tips |
Managing Land in the Piedmont of VirginiaPiedmont Environmental Council
Managing Land in the Piedmont of Virginia for the Benefit of Birds and Other Wildlife
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Director Designate Jon Jarvis Testifies At Confirmation HearingNPS Digest
Director designate Jon Jarvis testified at his confirmation hearing before the Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources yesterday morning. The text of his opening statement follows. |
The Monarch ButterflyMichael Salotti
Butterfly found in Virginia State Parks |
State Parks Offer Moonlight Canoe ToursKevin Wallenfang
Several state parks offer moonlight canoe tours throughout the summer, offering a fun evening of nature and the stars. |
Moonlight canoe ride on the Staunton RiverKevin Wallenfang
Moonlight canoe ride on the Staunton River |
Roots in BranchesLorraine Eaton
Canoist Lillie Gilbert takes an active roll in sharing knowledge about the coast backwaters of Virginia that she works to protect. |

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