etstrine
07-01-2010, 03:54 PM
http://www.dcr.virginia.gov/state_parks/gra.shtml
We stayed here over the weekend of 6/26/10. This park supports hiking trails as well as one bike trail and several horseback riding trails. There are two main campsites, one of which is for campers with horses and the other without. They are well separated at opposite ends of the park. We hiked two trails as follows:
Stamper's Branch Trail; This trail is back and forth. The walk from the campgrounds to the Visitors Center is quite a climb in elevation. Nothing too steep and rocky but a good work out. Coming back is a breeze as it's almost entirely down hill.
Wilson Creek Trail; This is a loop trail. The initial descent to the river is quite steep. Fortunately the return side of the loop is more gradual however that portion is on a combined hiker/horse/bike trail. The portion along the river is really enjoyable with a lot of nice rapids/falls to view and some narrow twisty trail portions.
Camp Pros; Most camp sites were shaded and all had a picnic table with a fire ring. Each site had a level site to pitch your tent. However if you're pulling a camper most spots are either well uphill or downhill of the access road. Clean restrooms and bath houses. Reservations are encouraged and any open sites are first come first serve. Quiet. Close to the Appalachian Trail if you have the time.
Camp Cons; Can not reserve a specific camp site. Only two bath houses with a total of six showers (4 + 2) for 69 sites. Although they have a couple 'stores' on site, they are not very well stocked with food. Be sure to bring what you need (don't ask me how I know):o!
All in all we enjoyed our stay and will probably go back some day.
We stayed here over the weekend of 6/26/10. This park supports hiking trails as well as one bike trail and several horseback riding trails. There are two main campsites, one of which is for campers with horses and the other without. They are well separated at opposite ends of the park. We hiked two trails as follows:
Stamper's Branch Trail; This trail is back and forth. The walk from the campgrounds to the Visitors Center is quite a climb in elevation. Nothing too steep and rocky but a good work out. Coming back is a breeze as it's almost entirely down hill.
Wilson Creek Trail; This is a loop trail. The initial descent to the river is quite steep. Fortunately the return side of the loop is more gradual however that portion is on a combined hiker/horse/bike trail. The portion along the river is really enjoyable with a lot of nice rapids/falls to view and some narrow twisty trail portions.
Camp Pros; Most camp sites were shaded and all had a picnic table with a fire ring. Each site had a level site to pitch your tent. However if you're pulling a camper most spots are either well uphill or downhill of the access road. Clean restrooms and bath houses. Reservations are encouraged and any open sites are first come first serve. Quiet. Close to the Appalachian Trail if you have the time.
Camp Cons; Can not reserve a specific camp site. Only two bath houses with a total of six showers (4 + 2) for 69 sites. Although they have a couple 'stores' on site, they are not very well stocked with food. Be sure to bring what you need (don't ask me how I know):o!
All in all we enjoyed our stay and will probably go back some day.