Staunton River State Park offers a full schedule of activities during summer, and lots of things to do all year round. Here are five suggestions to start off with for family fun, plus one bonus.
1. Disc golf
Spend a day out on the golf course, the disc golf course at Staunton River State Park
Staunton River has one of best disc golf courses in Halifax, Va. Stop by our Visitor Center and grab a disc before hitting the course.
The Staunton River State Park disc golf course was designed to carry golfers through the different vast sections of the property. Most of the course connects through the River Bank Trail, but, at times, branches off to give golfers a secluded experience across the park. The disc golf course opened to the public on October 1, 2017, and the only one at Virginia State Parks.
The park also hosts disc golf programs and events, like Disc Golf Pollination on June 6, 2019, learn more here.
2. Swimming in the pool
Enjoying the “Pollywog Pond” at Staunton River State Park
Locals as well as visitors from out of town enjoy cooling off with a splash in the park’s Olympic size pool. It has been a community gathering place every summer since opening in 1936. The “Water Moccasin” slide adds to the fun for bigger kids of all ages, with a smaller slide for the younger ones. Tots will enjoy their own special play area, the “Polliwog Pond.”
In-season, swimming is free for overnight guests in campsites, cabins and the camping lodge. Prior to mid-June and after mid-August, pool hours may vary, so be sure to contact the visitor center for details, or call the park before you go (434) 572-4623. Click here for park fees.
3. Stargazing
Star gazing is entertaining and educational family fun
Staunton River State Park has teamed up with the Chapel Hill Astronomical and Observational Society (CHAOS) to offer star gazing programs throughout the year. Here is where you will find some of the darkest night skies along the Eastern seaboard. Visit the park for an evening under the stars with astronomers on the field and get a view of the moon and planets like none you’ve never seen before.
Visitors may borrow a telescope at no charge for use while staying in the park. For the more serious astronomer, the park hosts the Staunton River Star Party twice a year in March and October.
4. Fishing
Fishing from the bank is popular here at the confluence of the Dan and Staunton Rivers
You can fish from the banks of the Staunton or Dan rivers, or launch a boat from the park. Plenty of parking in the lighted boat launch area gives you easy access to the rivers and Kerr Reservoir (also known as Buggs Island Lake). A world record blue catfish was caught nearby, but these waters are known for a variety of fish including bass and crappie. You can purchase bait nearby at River Traders or Bobby and Linda’s store.
Fishing licenses are available online or at the park. There are no boat rentals at this park, so guests must bring their own boats and a boat launch is available. To learn more about some of the hot fishing holes at Virginia State Parks, click here.
5. Paddling
Paddling programs or rentals are available here
An ideal location for paddlers, both newbies and the more experienced, Staunton River State Park is a stop along the Southern Virginia Wild Blueway.
The park also offers guided canoe programs, for times and more information about guided canoeing programs please click here to search the events database.
BONUS: Programs and events
Programs and events create lasting memories
Join any of the wide range of interpretive programs to learn about the natural world, or just to be entertained. You can try geocaching, campfire cooking, or making your own ice cream. The family can enjoy a movie outdoors, or make a craft. These programs are a great way to pack more fun into your visit and create memories to last a lifetime.
For scheduled programs click here. The park also offers self-guided activities, and loaner equipment such as GPS devices. You may contact the park office at (434) 572-4623 for more details.
Overnight accommodations at Staunton River State Park include seven historic cabins built by the CCC, and two campgrounds, one especially for equestrians. There is also a camping lodge. For more details about park accommodations click here.
For reservations click here or call Virginia State Parks Customer Service Center at (800) 933-PARK (7275). Staunton River State Park is located in Southern Virginia about 2 hours southwest of Richmond. For a location map click here.
Staunton River State Park offers a great way to escape to the great outdoors.
