Occoneechee

Occoneechee SP https://www.dcr.virginia.gov/state-parks/occoneechee https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Occoneechee_State_Park Occoneechee State Park is near Clarksville, Virginia, located along Buggs Island Lake. It is named for the Occaneechi Indians, who lived in the area. "Bacon's Rebellion abruptly ended their prominence in 1676. This armed rebellion is considered to be the first to occur in the New World.

WELCOME TO OCCONEECHEE STATE PARK. To make your visit safe and more pleasant, we ask that you observe the following: Take only pictures, leave only footprints. Park in designated areas only. Please note there is a parking fee charged year-round at all Virginia State Parks. Self-pay parking information is available at the contact station. PRESERVE – Help preserve your park. Please don’t cut or mar any plants or trees. Collecting animal or plant life is allowed only for scientific purposes by permit from the Richmond headquarters. Don’t feed any wild animals. ALCOHOL - State law permits alcohol use only in private areas (inside your cabin or camping unit) or in areas designated on permits issued by the Virginia Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control. PETS - Pets are permitted in enclosed areas or on a leash no longer than 6 feet. Please clean up after your pet. Pets must be attended at all times. State Park regulations prohibit dogs on designated swimming beaches. DRONES AND OTHER AIRCRAFT - Drones, other unmanned aerial vehicles, including remote control aircraft, and aircraft in general may not be flown in state parks pursuant to 4VAC5-30-400. LITTER - Please help us keep the park clean by placing litter and recyclables in the proper receptacles and recycle centers or carrying out your trash. The releasing of balloons is not allowed. Decorative balloons must be deflated and disposed of as trash. FIRE - Help prevent wildfires. Fires must be confined to grills, camp stoves or designated fire rings. Fires must be attended at all times and extinguished when left. Firewood is generally available for purchase at the park. Campers and guests may collect only downed and dead firewood. We enforce all seasonal and emergency bans on open fires. POLLUTION - Help reduce pollution. Dump stations, laundry sinks and slop sinks, where available, are for the proper disposal of wastewater. Please, no boat, RV or car washing. SWIMMING - There is no designated swimming area in the park. Swimming or wading in unguarded areas may be hazardous because of swift currents, sudden drop-offs or unseen obstructions. There is a spray park available at the park and is open seasonally. Please see the park website for up-to-date hours of operation. The weather and other issues beyond our control may reduce the availability of the facility. GUESTS - Your guests are our guests. For everyone’s safety and security, please register all visitors with the park office. Visitors will not be admitted to camping and cabin areas unless so identified. Visitors are permitted only between 6 a.m. and 10 p.m. QUIET HOURS - Quiet hours are between 10 p.m. and 6 a.m. The use of generators is prohibited at all times. CHECK-IN AND CHECK-OUT POLICY Camping: Check-in 4 p.m. Check-out 1 p.m. Cabins: Check-in 4 p.m. Check-out 10 a.m. In many cases, campers may be accommodated prior to the official check-in. Please remember that only those 18 or older may register. The registrant is responsible for all occupants of the campsite or cabin. Feel free to arrive early and enjoy park amenities prior to check-in. Overnight guests are encouraged to be familiar with the early departure policy since it impacts any refund due. The policy and frequently asked questions are here: www.dcr.virginia.gov/state-parks/faq. CAMPING - Camping is allowed only in designated campgrounds. Campsite occupancy is a maximum of six people or the number of people in a single household. Two camping units are allowed per campsite; only one axled camper is allowed per site. All camping units, equipment and vehicles must be placed within the perimeter of the designated campsite without infringing on adjoining campsites or vegetation. Where high-impact areas are designated, all camping units, equipment and vehicles must be within the area’s defined borders. Park in designated areas only. PARKING - Only two motor vehicles, as well as the camping unit, are permitted on a campsite without incurring additional fees. Cabin guests are allowed two vehicles for a two-bedroom cabin, three vehicles for a three-bedroom cabin and six vehicles for a six-bedroom cabin per day without an additional parking fee charge. Those with additional vehicles must pay a parking fee for each day the vehicle is in the park. The number of vehicles allowed to park at the cabin varies according to site design and other factors. All vehicles must be parked in designated areas, either at the cabin or in the designated overflow parking area. All vehicles must be parked in designated areas. Lock valuables in your trunk and keep your vehicle locked when unattended. www.dcr.virginia.gov/state-parks/occoneechee The maximum overnight stay per park is 14 days in any 30-day period. FISHING - A Virginia freshwater fishing license is required. GROUP EVENTS - A Special Use Permit is required for all group events that involve amplified sound, catering, equipment rentals and vendor deliveries. PARK ACCESSIBILITY - We

SOUTHERN VIRGINIA HyperFEST—Alton FLOAT BUGGS ISLAND LAKE (CLARKSVILLE): SAM DEAN / SOUTH BOSTON: SARAH HAUSER SOUTHERN VIRGINIA 110 Buggs Island Lake—Clarksville RACE Get your adrenaline pumping in Virginia’s Racing Region – boasting six speedways and raceways for super fans and families alike! The historic Martinsville Speedway has hosted the Monster Energy NASCAR Cup Series for 50 years and offers some of the most exciting races around. Also notable to NASCAR history, South Boston Speedway, “America’s Hometown Track” since 1957, offers plenty of excitement and affordable family entertainment – right where racing greats like Ward and Jeff Burton got their start. While you’re in the area, cruise on down to VIRginia International Raceway (VIR), a “motorsport resort,” where racing fans can also enjoy on-site lodging, plus fun activities like skeet shooting, off-road racing, go-karts and more. STROLL South Boston From boutiques and restaurants to farmers markets and historic districts, designated Main Street communities are perfect for an easy day out and about. In Danville, the elegant Millionaires Row showcases gorgeous Victorian, Edwardian, Romanesque and Gothic Revival architecture, built by 19th-century tobacco and textile barons. Also shaped by its significant role in the tobacco industry, South Boston’s downtown is best explored on foot via a Historic District Walking Tour. And when visiting Martinsville, be sure to explore the Fayette Street Historic District, one of the city’s oldest neighborhoods, which developed as a vibrant cultural center for the African-American community from 1900 to the mid-20th century. GAZE The Milky Way has never looked more beautiful than when viewed from Staunton River State Park! Designated as an International Dark Sky Park, exceptionally dark evenings allow star gazers to be completely enveloped by nature as they take in the night sky. LOVE Put a little LOVE in your heart and hit the road to discover several LOVEworks throughout the region in Emporia, Brunswick, South Hill, Boydton, Chase City, Clarksville, South Boston, Danville, Chatham and Martinsville. Don’t forget to hashtag #LOVEVA as you make memories and share the love! A L E X WO N G Offering quaint American Main Street communities, a distinctive local culinary scene and a plethora of outdoor activities, SOUTHERN VIRGINIA invites travelers to immerse themselves in the heart of the region’s rich culture. Scenic byways and classic country roads connect beautiful State Parks and attractions, while three major speedways and numerous raceways bring highspeed thrills to “Virginia’s Racing Region.” The Southern Virginia Wild Blueway, made up of the Dan, Staunton and Banister rivers, flows right into Buggs Island Lake - the state’s largest – so you can indulge in your favorite water activities or join one of their many state and national fishing tournaments. Or head to Occoneechee State Park, offering waterfront access and a marina with year-round boat and kayak rentals. Be sure to save the date for Clarksville’s Virginia Lake Festival in July, complete with music, hot air balloons and an incredible fireworks show on the water. VIRGINIA .ORG 111 q u O F F E R S A C C E S S F O R P E O P L E W H O A R E B L I N D O R H AV E L O W V I S I O N b BUSES/GROUP S WELCOME c $ P E T - F R I E N D LY FA C I L I T Y P R O V I D E S P R I N T E D M AT E R I A L I N B R A I L L E D PROVIDES DES CRIPTIONS BY A TRAINED AUDIO DES CRIBER P R O V I D E S A D E V I C E U S E D F O R C O M M U N I C AT I O N W I T H A N D B E T W E E N H E A R I N G I M PA I R E D ADMISSION REQUIRED I s W PROVIDES SIGN LANGUAGE PROVIDES ASSISTIVE LISTENING SYSTEMS ADA-COMPLIANT Grove Street Cemetary 940 Grove St., 434-7935644; danville-va.gov/ documentcenter/home/ view/2286. Established in 1827. Early Danville families and slaves, some Confederates. bjI Victoria 29 15 360 Red Oak 220 29 Martinsville Axton 360 South Boston ALTON VIRginia International Raceway 1245 Pine Tree Rd., 434-822-7700; virnow.com. America’s motorsport resort, 3.27-mile road course. Country club, hotel, restaurant. $bj AXTON Lake Sugar Tree Motor Sports Park 400 Movie Mover E, 276-650-1158; lakesugartree.com. Oldest professional motorcross track in Virginia. Open to public. $bj Smith River Sports Complex 1000 Irisburg Rd., 276-638-5200; smithriversportscomplex.com. Tournaments, walking trails, river access and events. bjI BASSETT Bassett Historical Center 3964 Fairystone Park Hwy., 276-629-9191; bassetthistoricalcenter.com. Genealogical facility with collection of area artifacts, family, local, regional and Virginia history. bI Philpott Lake and Dam 1058 Philpott Dr., 276-629-2703; visitmartinsville.com/lakes. Scenic overlook, campgrounds and history museum of pristine 3,000-acre lake. bjI Philpott Marina 300 Boat Dock Rd., 276-340-0485; philpottmarina.com. Fuel slip, marina store, boat launch, restroom, picnic area. bjI Danvi

Environmental Education Virginia State Parks are premier environmental education sites. Schools, scouts, groups and individuals are encouraged to come learn more about their world. Backyard Classroom programs, incorporating Virginia’s Standards of Learning, promote lifelong learning. They also help young people enjoy, appreciate and understand the outdoors. Programs & Festivals Master new outdoor cooking recipes. Pan for gold or tour a cave. Learn or improve outdoor skills. Enjoy a rangerled hike, eagle tour or owl prowl. Workshops and events are as diverse as the parks. VIRGINIA Discounts Virginia State Parks are affordable every day, but annual passes can save you money on parking, boat launching and swimming. The Customer Loyalty Program lets you earn points that can be redeemed for free or discounted overnight stays. STATE PARKS You can also receive a 25 percent discount on weekend cabins if you make a reservation on Thursday or Friday, based on availability. Just ask for the discount on the phone when you make the reservation. Park Accessibility Virginia State Parks strive to make each park as barrier-free as possible. Contact the Customer Service Center or individual parks for more information before your trip. Pets Pets are welcome but must be on a leash no longer than 6 feet or in an enclosed area at all times. Cabin guests are charged $10 plus tax per night per pet. No pet fee is charged for camping. There’s plenty of history, too. Immerse yourself in Colonial times, the Civil War or the Underground Railroad. When it comes to festivals, you’ll find music, arts and crafts, local food and beverage, classic cars and more. Up-to-theminute, comprehensive information is available at www.virginiastateparks.gov. Nature & History All parks have trails, many with signs explaining the environment. Wander trails at First Landing through cypress swamps or hike Caledon’s trails along ridges and ravines through rare oldgrowth forest. Overlooks at Hungry Mother, Grayson Highlands and Natural Tunnel offer a glimpse of powerful geological forces that shaped the land. See how rivers shaped some parks, such as Belle Isle, James River, Natural Bridge, Powhatan and Westmoreland. www.virginiastateparks.gov | 800-933-PARK (7275) www.virginiastateparks.gov Shenandoah River Seven Bends Sky Meadows 540-622-6840 540-622-6840 540-592-3556 CT • CT • Douthat 540-862-8100 T Natural Bridge 540-291-1326 Smith Mountain Lake 540-297-6066 • 540-854-5503 703-730-8205 703-339-2385 540-288-1400 • B/E/H • B/H • B/E/H/U VIRGINIA MOUNTAINS • • FP • • • • B/E/H H • FP • • B/H • • • B/E/H/U • H/U NORTHERN VIRGINIA Lake Anna Leesylvania Mason Neck Widewater • • • FP CT • • • • B/H/U • • • UD CT CHESAPEAKE BAY Belle Isle Caledon Machicomoco Westmoreland 804-462-5030 540-663-3861 804-642-2419 804-493-8821 • • • B/E/H/U • • B/H • CT • • FP • B/H • FP • P B/H/U COASTAL Chippokes Plantation False Cape­­­­ First Landing York River 757-294-3728 757-426-7128 757-412-2300 757-566-3036 • • P B/E/H/U • • B/H/U • • • B/H • • • FP • • B/E/H/U EASTERN SHORE Photo courtesy Jackie Jamison Kiptopeke CENTRAL VIRGINIA Bear Creek Lake­ High Bridge Trail Holliday Lake James River Pocahontas Powhatan Sailor’s Creek Battlefield Twin Lakes (Cedar Crest Conference Center) Boa t La unc h Boa t Re nta ls Fish in g Day Use O nl y Play grou nds Swi mm in g Trai ls BLUE RIDGE HIGHLANDS SHENANDOAH VALLEY 757-331-2267 • • • FP • • H/U/B 804-492-4410 434-315-0457 434-248-6308 434-933-4355 804-796-4255 804-598-7148 804-561-7510 434-392-3435 434-767-2398 T • • • • B/E/H T • • • • • • • • T • • • • • CT • • 540-643-2500 276-579-7092 276-781-7400 276-781-7425 276-699-6778 276-699-6778 • • • FP • • • T • • • CT • • • • B/H/U B/E/H • B/H/U B/E/H/U • SOUTHERN VIRGINIA Fairy Stone Occoneechee Staunton River Battlefield Staunton River 276-930-2424 434-374-2210 434-454-4312 434-572-4623 T • • • 276-865-4413 276-254-5487 276-940-2674 276-940-2696 276-523-1322 276-445-3065 T • • • • • • • B/E/H • B/H/U • • P B/E/H • • P B/E/H HEART OF APPALACHIA Breaks Interstate Clinch River Natural Tunnel (Cove Ridge Conference Center) Southwest Virginia Museum Wilderness Road CT • • • • B/H • P B/H/U H/U • B/E/H TABLE LEGEND­­­: B Biking CT Car-top Boat Launch E Equestrian FP Fishing Pier H Hiking P Pool Swimming T Electric Motors Only U Universally Accessible UD Under Development B/E/H B/E/H/U P • B/E/H/U B/E/H H • • Many parks offer overnight facilities suitable for reunions, weddings and special events. Some parks even have equestrian campsites. B/E/H/U B/E/H/U • T Claytor Lake Grayson Highlands Hungry Mother (Hemlock Haven Conference Center) New River Trail Shot Tower With lodges, cabins, yurts and campsites, the fun doesn’t end at sundown. Many cabins are available year-round, and most campgrounds ar

Hotel Weyanoke—Farmville Small Towns, Local charm, cozy curios and open arms make these small towns in Virginia worth exploring. Character WRITTEN BY MARY & BILL BURNHAM T KYLE LAFERRIERE 10 he phrase “small town” evokes nostalgia, authenticity and heartfeltwarmth in many of us. What’s not to love? They are authentic, accessible, friendly and stocked with locally-owned businesses. These are communities where you can get off the crowded highway, park the car and walk, ride a bike or even kayak through downtown. Small, family-run businesses offer one-of- a-kind handmade items, from jewelry and art to craft beers and wine. Farmers markets offer locally-grown produce and seafood spring through fall. With almost 200 incorporated towns, dozens more villages and hamlets, plus nearly 30 designated Virginia Main Street Communities, the hard part is deciding which Virginia towns to visit. VIRGINIA .ORG 11 Here are some of our favorites, d ending starting in southwest Virginia, an metown with a shameless plug for our ho on the Eastern Shore. High Bridge Trail State Park—Farmville Harrisonburg Big Stone Gap 12 Farmville HIGH BRIDGE TRAIL STATE PARK (FARMVILLE): ALI ZAMAN / SOUTHWEST VIRGINIA MUSEUM (BIG STONE GAP): JASON BARNETTE June Tolliver House and Art Folk Center—Big Stone Gap Southwest Virginia Museum—Big Stone Gap JUNE TOLLIVER HOUSE (BIG STONE GAP): TIM COX Southwest Virginia’s coal-mining history comes to life in the “Trail of the Lonesome Pine,” Virginia’s longest-running outdoor drama, performed Thursday through Saturday nights, late June through August. Before you go, be sure to read the Big Stone Gap novels by Adriana Trigiani, or watch the Hollywood film by the same name starring Ashley Judd and Whoopi Goldberg. Upon arrival, you can visit places featured in the film, such as Mutual Pharmacy, the Book Mobile, the Farmers Market, as well as the outdoor drama. Fine, well-preserved period homes house The John Fox Jr. Museum, the Southwest Virginia Museum and the June Tolliver House. Cozy B&Bs, cafes and a variety of antique and curio shops round out this small town gem. Fun Festival: 100th annual Tri State Singing Convention, June This formerly industrial town has been reinvented for recreation, craft beverage and shopping lovers. The Appomattox River that once carried tobacco barges is now a designated Scenic River carrying paddlers in search of whitewater or the calmer four-mile Farmville Blueway. The railroad that once carried coal now carries hikers, bikers and equestrians on the 30-mile-long High Bridge Trail State Park. Repurposed tobacco packing houses and lumber warehouses are reincarnated to house Appomattox River Company, Green Front Furniture and the Third Street Brewing Company, serving up local beer, live music, games for the kids and a pet-friendly beer garden. Together with the Virginia Tasting Cellar and the soon-to-open second location of James River Brewing, Farmville is fast becoming a destination for craft beverage lovers. Fun Festival: Heart of Virginia Festival, May Set amidst the vast playground of the idyllic Shenandoah Valley, Harrisonburg has been called “one of the best mountain bike towns in America” by National Geographic. Forward-thinking entrepreneurs and artisans have blended the past with the present to create a lively melting pot that is distinctive to this college town. Named Virginia’s first Culinary District in 2014, Harrisonburg’s cultural diversity serves up fare from around the world, while taking advantage of locallysourced farm-to-table ingredients. Food. Bar.Food features “global comfort food,” while a mother-daughter team creates soulsoothing pastries at Heritage Bakery & Café. The arts scene is equally diverse, epitomized by the Agora Downtown Market, a community of small businesses under one roof in an historic building. Named for James Madison, fourth president and the “Father of the Constitution,” are the stunning Hotel Madison and James Madison University (JMU), where nearly 20,000 students lend a youthful vitality to this historic town. Fun Festival: Harrisonburg International Festival, September VIRGINIA .ORG 13 Within Virginia’s larger cities, find pockets of uniqueness that make you feel like you’re in a small town! ROANOKE’S HISTORIC GRANDIN VILLAGE This walkable urban village is eclectic and family-friendly at the same time. Spend Saturday morning at the Community Market, dine on an outdoor patio, shop independentlyowned boutiques and take in a first-run or classic film at the 1930s Grandin Theatre. RICHMOND’S SCOTT’S ADDITION One of the hottest, newly revitalized neighborhoods in the state capital. Warehouses converted to breweries, cideries and distilleries, bold street murals, a cinema and a retro bowling alley make this a happening night scene. Immerse yourself in Virginia’s Lake Country at Virginia’s only lakeside town. Buggs Island Lake, also known as Kerr Reservoir, draws anglers to dozens of fishing tournaments yearl