Charlottesville, Virginia, is a destination for travelers looking to enjoy the beauty of the outdoors within the state. While you will not find a state park in the city of Charlottesville itself, you will find a few nearby that you can explore. Large lakes, hundreds of miles of walking, biking and hiking trails and several types of camping arrangements are in this area of the United States.
A 40-acre lake is the key focus of this park located in the midst of the Cumberland State Forest. Travelers from all over the United States visit this park to enjoy tent camping, small self-sufficient cabins and a number of trails and picnic areas. The park also offers an archery range, boat dock, playground areas and public shower facilities. An on-site visitor's center offers information on nature tours and other educational programs offered in the park. A convenience store offers basic supplies and sundries and can arrange boat and bike rentals.
Bear Creek Lake State Park
22 Bear Creek Lake Road
Cumberland, VA 23040
804-492-4410
virginia.gov
James River State Park offers more than 3 miles of river frontage, 1,500 acres of meadows, three fishing ponds, 15 miles of hiking trails and a vast forest meant for hiking, relaxing and exploring. Opened in 1999, this park attracts large crowds seeking to be near the recreational activities of the Blue Ridge Mountains. One focus of the park is a canoe livery service where patrons can rent canoes to explore the James River. Cabins, tent campsites and RV campsites are available. A general store, public showers and coin-operated laundry facilities are also offered within the park for convenience.
James River State Park
751 Park Road
Gladstone, VA 24553
434-933-4355
virginia.gov
Lake Anna State Park is the site of the famous Goodwin Gold Mine that brought great riches to the state of Virginia in the 1800s. Overall, this park stretches more than 2,800 acres and offers more than 10 miles of lake shore to explore. The 13,000-acre lake within the park is popular for all sorts of recreation including swimming, boating and fishing. Camping facilities in the park include cabins, tent sites and RV sites with electrical, water and sewer connections. Children's play areas, concession stands and an information site are also located within the park.
Lake Anna State Park
6800 Lawyers Road
Spotsylvania, VA 22551-6404
540-854-5503
virginia.gov
