State: Virginia
Address 1: 829 Grayson Highland Lane
City: Mouth of Wilson
Zip: 24363
Phone: 276-579-7092
Open all Year: Yes
Number of Sites: 96
Electric Water: 60
Camp URL: http://www.dcr.virginia.gov/state_parks/gra.shtml
Full Hook: Yes
This mountain park is next to the Mount Rogers National Recreation Area in the Jefferson National Forest. Grayson Highlands State Park was originally named Mount Rogers State Park and was established in 1965. Pets are allowed in the park but not allowed inside public facilities including the bathhouses, visitor center and office.
Grayson Highlands provides access to the Appalachian Trail (AT), hence backpacking is a popular activity. In fact, the park averages 4,000 backpackers a year. The park, however, also can have unusual and harsh weather, so it’s important for those planning to access the AT’s trailhead here to be familiar with Grayson Highland’s severe weather policy and associated procedures. Here are a few links that will help.
Nearly 10 miles of wild trout stream lie within Grayson Highlands State Park. The cool mountain streams offer those fishing breathtaking scenery while angling for native brook and wild rainbow trout. Several park streams are designated “Special Regulation Wildlife Trout Streams” thus require the use of a single hook and artificial lures, and all trout less than nine inches long must be released unharmed. All required state fishing licenses and creel limits apply to fishing within the park. A National Forest Permit is required when fishing on national forest property.
Guided canoe trips are offered from Memorial Day through Labor Day, depending on the water level of the river. The trips can accommodate groups of from a minimum of six to a maximum of 14. The trip takes placeon the New River through “a land that time forgot.” Take in cliffs, shaded pastures, lush woodlands and crisp, clear water. It’s a six-mile trek and takes about six hours. Participants should bring lunch, drinking water and closed-toe shoes.