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Virginia: Some state parks, natural area preserves closed due to damage from Helene

Crystal Graham
New River Bike Trail
(© Mosto – stock.adobe.com)

Nine Virginia State Parks and four natural area preserves are closed or partially closed following damage caused by Hurricane Helene.

These closures will allow for thorough assessments and necessary repairs to the affected areas, according to the Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation.

For guest safety as well as the safety of DCR staff and emergency response workers, visitors should not attempt to access any parks, preserves or areas that are closed.

Virginia State Parks will contact guests with overnight reservations impacted by these closures.

Visitors with questions about trail conditions, special events and educational programs should check the park’s website for more information at virginiastateparks.gov/find-a-park.

To learn more, please go to dcr.virginia.gov/closures.

Virginia State Parks 

  • Grayson Highlands: Closed through Oct. 14.
  • Hungry Mother: Closed through Oct. 14.
  • Natural Tunnel: Closed. Will reopen on Oct. 3.
  • New River Trail: Closed until further notice. All campgrounds are closed through Feb. 28, 2025.
  • Seven Bends: The park (both access points) is closed until further notice.
  • Claytor Lake: All boat ramps inside the marina and other public boat ramps on the lake are closed due to excessive debris. Swimming and launching kayaks and other small watercraft are not allowed.
  • Clinch River: Riverside Trail at the Sugar Hill Unit and the day-use cartop boat launches at Artrip, Carbo and Old Castlewood in Russell County are closed until further notice.
  • James River: The Green Hill picnic area, Branch Pond Road and Branch Pond Campground are closed until Oct. 4.
  • Powhatan: River Launch Rd., Launch A and the primitive/canoe-in campground are closed until further notice. All trails are closed to bikes and horses until further notice.

Natural area preserves 

  • The Channels: Closed.
  • Pinnacle: Closed.
  • Buffalo Mountain: Closed through Oct. 14.
  • Cleveland Barrens: Closed beyond Tank Hollow Falls.

All dates are subject to change.






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Crystal Graham

Crystal Graham

A 1999 graduate of Virginia Tech, Crystal Graham has worked for 25 years as a reporter and editor for several Virginia publications, written a book, and garnered more than a dozen Virginia Press Association awards for writing and graphic design. She was the co-host of "Viewpoints," a weekly TV news show, and co-host of "Virginia Tonight," a nightly TV news show, both broadcast on PBS. Her work on "Virginia Tonight" earned her a national Telly award for excellence in television. You can reach her at [email protected]

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