Heart of Appalachia State Parks
Discover four Virginia State Parks located in the Heart of Appalachia, the far southwest corner of the state!
Breaks Interstate Park
Breaks Interstate Park in Dickenson County has been called "The Grand Canyon of the South." It covers 4,500 acres of woodland with lofty rock formations and caves.
Outdoor adventures include:- Trails for biking, hiking and horseback riding
- Boating, but no gasoline motors
- Freshwater fishing
- Whitewater for expert kayakers and rafters
- Olympic-size swimming pool,
- Rent horses, ponies and paddleboats
Natural Tunnel State Park
Natural Tunnel is the main attraction at Natural Tunnel State Park. The tunnel was carved by what is now Stock Creek thousands of years ago, and many fossils can still be found in and around the tunnel walls! It's been said that Daniel Boone was probably the first person to discover the tunnel.
Outdoor adventures include:
- Freshwater trout fishing
- Hiking trails
- 5,400-square-foot swimming pool
Southwest Virginia Museum Historical State Park
Southwest Virginia Museum Historical State Park features a beautiful Victorian mansion that serves as the museum. The people who stayed in this region are the Heart of Appalachia itself, learning to survive by their own determination, wits and skills.
Outdoor adventures include hiking trails and plenty sightings of wildlife!
Wilderness Road State Park
We start our exploration at the very southwest tip of Virginia at Wilderness Road State Park that borders the Wilderness Road, which was blazed by Daniel Boone in 1775. Historic Martin’s Station, a replica of a frontier fort, is on the grounds. Staff there present living history programs, and a reenactment takes place there each May as well. Guests may rent bikes to use on the park’s 8.2-mile Rail Trail.
Outdoor adventures include:
- Trails for biking, hiking and horseback riding.
- Group camping without hookups or restroom facilities.
- Picnic shelters and a playground.
For more information on wildlife management areas and natural preserves, please visit the Department of Conservation & Recreation!