Get Outdoors

South Boston, Va

Rolling hills, fresh air, river views and not a fluorescent light in sight. That’s why you came to Halifax County. This two-day tour is all about getting outdoors. If it’s nature you crave, there are rivers and lakes to explore by boat or on land via gorgeous wooded trails. There’s a spot for the best stargazing in the country. For adventure seekers, there’s a driving experience that will make you feel like a NASCAR contender. Get outdoors and get your heart racing.

2 Days

Medium Activity

STOP : SOUTHERN VIRGINIA WILD BLUEWAY

Consisting of three rivers and two lakes spanning Halifax and Mecklenburg counties, the Southern Virginia Wild Blueway offers a paddling and fishing experience unlike anywhere else in the country. Unspoiled terrain and interesting wildlife provide a feeling of wilderness, yet the Blueway is a short drive from major metro areas and has dozens of easy access points. Whether you’re looking for a couple hours on the lake with your family, or a more challenging three-day river trek, the Blueway delivers.

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STOP : BUSY BEAN

Start your day with a cup of coffee from The Busy Bean. You’ll need the energy to power through the day of searching for the perfect treasure. While you sip, plot your course for the day. The friendly staff may be able to offer a few recommendations along with the coffee, smoothies and breakfast sandwiches.

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STOP : STAUNTON RIVER DISC GOLF

There are course maps and scorecards at the main office close to the course. This is a 9 hole course with lots of variety. Some trees still need to be cut in the fairways, but the pins and pads are set to play.

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STOP : STAUNTON RIVER CAMPING

Bring your tent or book a cabin for an overnight at Staunton River State Park. Tucked neatly into the heart of Virginia, about 25 miles from the North Carolina border, Staunton River offers much to families and outdoor enthusiasts. The 2,400-acre park is filled with woodlands, meadows and shoreline along the Dan and Staunton rivers. Bring a pole and your favorite flavor of bait for freshwater fishing on Buggs Island Lake. Or stay on land and explore the three playgrounds, tennis and volleyball courts, several boat launches and more than 17 miles of multi-use trails.

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STOP : STAR GAZING

Staunton River State Park is one of six places in the United States designated an International Dark Sky Park and is ideal for stargazing. What put them on the list? The park takes great measures to protect their night skies and reduce outdoor light pollution at night, making ideal conditions for looking upward. Walk out to the nine-acre “Dark Sky Observation Area” next to the visitor center and prepare to gawk. You’ve never seen stars like this. You’ll likely have some astronomers and star enthusiasts as company. Bring a good pair of binoculars and you may be able to view the craters on the moon up close.

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STOP : VIR FORMULA ONE

Known primarily for races hosted on the track, VIR offers a variety of recreation opportunities that are often overlooked by weekend spectators.For the ultimate experience, spend the day in VIR’s Formula Experiences, which puts guests behind the wheel of one of the world’s fastest race cars. After a two-hour training session, even beginners can take to the track at America’s only formula race car driving opportunity.

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STOP : SOUTHERN PLENTY

This eclectic cafe serves up homemade goodness from quiches to soups and salads, to chili. Place your order and find a seat in the newly remodeled eatery. While waiting for your order, view the art gallery on the second floor, or browse the shop featuring handmade jewelry, pottery, and goods. Don’t forget to pick up a snack from the selection of gourmet foods and deli items to snack on later in the day.

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STOP : HAZEL BRANCH OUTFITTERS

What better way to get to know the rivers than from the seat of a kayak. Hit up Hazel Branch Outfitters for canoe or kayak rentals to explore the waterways surrounding Staunton River State Park. They’ve got what you need for a day trip and plenty of suggestions about where to go and what to see. Happy paddling.

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STOP : SPAINHOUR’S

Everything here is made to order, which means it’s piping hot and super fresh. You may have to wait an extra minute for those hand-pattied burgers, or hickory smoked pulled pork, but it will be worth it. That BBQ sauce is also from scratch, and it’s full of all the flavor you never knew you needed to compliment that pork.

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