Virginia, the Old Dominion, is a state of breathtaking landscapes, from the rolling Blue Ridge Mountains to the serene Chesapeake Bay, making it a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. Its best parks in Virginia, including Virginia state parks and national parks in Virginia, offer a mix of scenic beauty, history, and adventure. Virginia is also a culinary gem where Southern hospitality meets diverse flavors, with farm-to-table restaurants and coastal seafood enhancing park visits. Whether you’re searching for Virginia parks near me, exploring family-friendly parks in Virginia, or seeking Virginia hiking trails, this guide to the 8 best parks in Virginia will inspire your next adventure. Use our map of Virginia parks to navigate Virginia park attractions, discover what to do in Virginia parks, and uncover hidden gem parks in Virginia for Virginia camping and Virginia nature destinations. From best state parks in Virginia to historic national parks, this post is your roadmap to the Old Dominion’s outdoor treasures.

This guide will give you tips for Virginia outdoor activities and culinary highlights, ensuring your Virginia parks for families adventure is unforgettable. Let’s explore the best parks in Virginia!

Why Virginia’s Parks Are a Must-Visit

Virginia’s diverse geography from the Appalachian Mountains to coastal plains makes its Virginia state parks and national parks in Virginia some of the most varied in the U.S. These parks offer Virginia hiking trails, kayaking, camping, and wildlife viewing, perfect for families, adventurers, and history buffs. The state’s culinary scene, where Southern hospitality meets farm-fresh and coastal flavors, complements park visits with local eateries serving fried chicken, Virginia ham, and Chesapeake Bay oysters.
Summer and fall are ideal seasons for Virginia camping and Virginia outdoor activities, with mild temperatures (70–85°F) and vibrant festivals like the Virginia State Fair.

Whether you’re planning a family-friendly parks in Virginia getaway or seeking hidden gem parks in Virginia like Grayson Highlands, this guide covers the best state parks in Virginia and Virginia park attractions. Use a map of Virginia parks to plan your trip and pair outdoor adventures with Virginia’s culinary delights.

1. Shenandoah National Park: Blue Ridge Beauty

Shenandoah National Park, a crown jewel of national parks in Virginia, is renowned for its Blue Ridge Mountains, scenic Skyline Drive, and over 500 miles of Virginia hiking trails. It’s a top best park in Virginia for nature lovers.

Why Visit Shenandoah National Park?

• Features: Rolling mountains, waterfalls like Dark Hollow Falls, and panoramic views along Skyline Drive.
• Activities: Hiking (Old Rag Trail, Hawksbill Summit), wildlife spotting (deer, black bears), and stargazing.
• Culinary Connection: Virginia is a culinary gem, and nearby Front Royal’s Spelunker’s Frozen Custard offers a sweet post-hike treat.
• Access: $30 vehicle pass (7 days); public trails and visitor centers.

Summer/Fall Tip

Shenandoah’s fall foliage (October) is stunning, but summer offers milder hiking conditions. Book Virginia camping sites early for this family-friendly park in Virginia.

2. Great Falls Park: Dramatic Waterfalls

Great Falls Park, located near McLean, is a hidden gem park in Virginia just 15 miles from Washington, D.C., making it a top Virginia park near me for Northern Virginia residents. It’s known for its stunning Potomac River waterfalls.

Why Visit Great Falls Park?

• Features: 20-foot waterfalls, rocky cliffs, and scenic river trails.
• Activities: Hiking (River Trail, Overlook Trail), kayaking, and rock climbing.
• Culinary Connection: Pair with a meal at The Old Brogue in nearby Great Falls for Virginia ham and craft beer.
• Access: $20 vehicle pass (7 days); public trails and picnic areas.

Summer/Fall Tip

Summer is ideal for kayaking, while fall offers vibrant colors. Great Falls is a family-friendly park in Virginia with easy trails for kids.

3. First Landing State Park: Coastal History

First Landing State Park in Virginia Beach is one of the best state parks in Virginia, where the Chesapeake Bay meets the Atlantic Ocean. It’s a top Virginia park for families for its beaches and history.

Why Visit First Landing State Park?

• Features: 1.5 miles of Virginia ocean beaches, maritime forests, and historic significance as the 1607 Jamestown landing site.
• Activities: Swimming, hiking (Bald Cypress Trail), and kayaking.
• Culinary Connection: Virginia’s coastal cuisine shines at nearby Waterman’s Surfside Grille with Chesapeake Bay oysters.
• Access: $7 weekday/$10 weekend vehicle fee; public beach and trails.

Summer/Fall Tip

Summer is perfect for beach days at this family-friendly park in Virginia. Book cabins early for peak season.

4. Grayson Highlands State Park: Alpine Vistas

Grayson Highlands State Park, in the Blue Ridge Mountains, is a hidden gem park in Virginia known for its alpine meadows, wild ponies, and proximity to Mount Rogers. It’s a top best state park in Virginia for hikers.

Why Visit Grayson Highlands?

• Features: Rolling meadows, wild ponies, and access to the Appalachian Trail.
• Activities: Hiking (Rhododendron Trail), horseback riding, and bouldering.
• Culinary Connection: Enjoy farm-to-table at The Restaurant at Gideon Ridge in nearby Blowing Rock, NC (close enough for a day trip).
• Access: $7 vehicle fee; public trails and campgrounds.

Summer/Fall Tip

Fall’s cooler temperatures (60–75°F) make Grayson Highlands ideal for Virginia hiking trails. It’s a Virginia nature destination for adventurers.

5. Natural Bridge State Park: Geological Wonder

Natural Bridge State Park, near Lexington, is one of the best parks in Virginia for its iconic 215-foot limestone arch, a Virginia park attraction with historical significance (once owned by Thomas Jefferson).

Why Visit Natural Bridge State Park?

• Features: The Natural Bridge, Cedar Creek Trail, and lush forests.
• Activities: Hiking, guided tours, and exploring the Monacan Indian Village exhibit.
• Culinary Connection: Pair with Southern comfort food at the Natural Bridge Hotel’s Colonial Dining Room.
• Access: $9 adult/$6 child entry; public trails and exhibits.

Summer/Fall Tip

Summer offers mild weather for exploring this family-friendly park in Virginia. Fall foliage enhances the bridge’s beauty.

6. Douthat State Park: Lakefront Retreat

Douthat State Park, in the Allegheny Mountains, is one of the best state parks in Virginia for its scenic lake and historic cabins, making it a top Virginia camping destination.

Why Visit Douthat State Park?

• Features: 50-acre Douthat Lake, surrounded by forested trails and historic CCC-built cabins.
• Activities: Fishing, boating, hiking (Blue Suck Falls Trail), and mountain biking.
• Culinary Connection: Enjoy Virginia ham at nearby Clifton Forge’s Jack Mason’s Tavern.
• Access: $7 vehicle fee; public lake and trails.

Summer/Fall Tip

Douthat’s summer lake activities and fall foliage make it a Virginia nature destination. Book cabins early for peak seasons.

7. Prince William Forest Park: Urban Escape

Prince William Forest Park, near Triangle, is a national park in Virginia and a Virginia park near me for D.C.-area residents, offering a wooded retreat just 30 miles from the capital.

Why Visit Prince William Forest Park?

• Features: 15,000 acres of forests, streams, and 37 miles of Virginia hiking trails.
• Activities: Hiking (South Valley Trail), camping, and birdwatching.
• Culinary Connection: Pair with farm-to-table dining at The Secret Garden Cafe in nearby Occoquan.
• Access: $20 vehicle pass (7 days); public trails and campgrounds.

Summer/Fall Tip

Summer is ideal for hiking, while fall’s colors enhance this family-friendly park in Virginia. It’s a hidden gem park in Virginia for urban dwellers.

8. False Cape State Park: Coastal Wilderness

False Cape State Park, accessible only by foot, bike, or boat from Virginia Beach, is a hidden gem park in Virginia known for its pristine beaches and remote wilderness.

Why Visit False Cape State Park?

• Features: Undeveloped Virginia ocean beaches, dunes, and maritime forests.
• Activities: Hiking, biking, kayaking, and wildlife viewing (dolphins, wild horses).
• Culinary Connection: Virginia’s coastal cuisine shines at nearby Blue Pete’s Restaurant with crab cakes.
• Access: $7 tram fee from Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge; no vehicle access.

Summer/Fall Tip

Summer is best for beach days at this Virginia park for families. Book tram rides early for access to this Virginia nature destination.

Virginia’s 8 best parks in Virginia, from the majestic Shenandoah National Park to the remote False Cape State Park, offer a wealth of Virginia outdoor activities for every traveler. Virginia, a culinary gem where Southern hospitality meets diverse flavors, pairs its Virginia state parks and national parks in Virginia with farm-to-table dining and coastal cuisine. Whether you’re hiking Virginia hiking trails in Grayson Highlands, camping in Douthat, or exploring family-friendly parks in Virginia like First Landing, this guide to Virginia park attractions has you covered. Use a map of Virginia parks to navigate Virginia nature destinations and plan your Virginia camping adventure.

Discover Virginia parks near me, hidden gem parks in Virginia, and what to do in Virginia parks for an unforgettable journey in the Old Dominion!