FAIRY STONE STATE PARK
Fairy Stone State Park is home of the mysterious "fairy stones." It is one of the six original Virginia state parks to open on June 15, 1936. The treasured stone so prevalent in the region, beautiful scenery, rich history and ample recreational opportunities make Fairy Stone one of the favorites of park visitors. Junius B. Fishburn, who had been president of the Southwest Virginia Trust Company, donated the 4,868-acre site, making it the largest of the six original parks and one of the largest to this day.
In the late 1920s various groups across the commonwealth began working towards the establishment of state parks in Virginia. It wasn't until 1933, however, with the establishment of the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) that the state was able to begin building such a system. At that time, six areas were acquired, including Fairy Stone. Roanoke newspaper publisher Julius B. Fishburn donated the 4,868 acre site, making it the largest of the six original parks, and one of the largest to this day.
The CCC provided the labor and materials for the construction of the park from 1933 until the CCC camp was removed in the spring of 1941. Roads, trails, picnic areas, cabins, a restaurant, bathhouse, dam and sanitation system are all part of the original CCC construction. Their handiwork is still evident in the park's log cabins.
Day-UseHuntingyes
Hiking Trailyes
Swimming Beachyes
Bridle Trailsyes
BoatingLaunch Rampsyes
CampingPrimitiveyes
Water/Electric Sitesyes
Campsites have a fire ring on the ground and can be used for campfires and cooking. Campsites allow one extra vehicle in addition to the camping unit and all vehicles must be kept on the paved area in the campsite. Additional parking is approximately ? mile from the campground area and parking fees are charged.
Lake swimming - Memorial Day weekend to Labor Day only. The swimming beach is complete with a bathhouse, concession area and beach toys. Times of operation may vary prior to Mid-June and after mid-August depending on the availability of lifeguards, as the park uses mostly students. Guests may wish to call Fairy Stone prior to making reservation if swimming is important. In the summer, swimming is free for overnight guests in campsites, cabins and the lodge, however it cannot be guaranteed should circumstances beyond the park's control require that swimming be closed. We do not give refunds for swimming to overnight guests under any circumstances.
A boat launch ramp is available for non-gasoline powered boats. Gasoline-powered boats are allowed on the Philpott Reservoir, which is within a 20-minute drive from the park. In addition, rowboats, paddleboats and canoes are available for rent during the summer season.
Boats may be rented on weekends, weather permitting, in April, May, September and October.
Fishing is allowed with a valid Virginia fishing license on the 168-acre lake. A fishing area is accessible to visitors with physical disabilities.
Approximately half the park's acreage is open to hunting. There's a 5,000-acre quality deer management area next to the park.
Fairy Stone State Park is located near Bassett, Martinsville and Rocky Mount
Picnic areas include drinking water and restroom facilities. Picnic shelters are also available on a reservation or first-come, first-served basis by calling the Reservations Center. The playground has been upgraded to provide appropriate play equipment for small children. Parking and swimming fees are not included in shelter rental.
Fairy Stone State Park Picnic Shelters
Four shelters are available for rent. They can be rented from 8 a.m. to dark (all day).
Per car parking fee: Standard car parking fee.
Cancellation policy: No refund within 14 days before reserved date. Before then, there's a cancellation fee.
Shelter Amenities
Shelter 1: Shelter can accommodate 75 people under the shelter. No restrooms; portable toilet only. Overlooks part of the lake, but there is no flat area for games. Features lights, large grill and a fireplace in each end of the shelter. No electrical outlets available.
Shelter 2: Shelter can accommodate 75 people under the shelter. Restroom is approximately 500 ft from shelter. Large parking area and level area for games. Features electrical outlets, one large grill, lights and a fireplace in each end of shelter.
Shelter 3: Also known as Allied Block Shelter. Shelter can accommodate 75 people under the shelter. Handicapped accessible. Creek runs in front of shelter; horseshoe pit in area, but guests must bring their own horseshoes. Features electrical outlets, lights, one large grill and a handicapped accessible bathroom.
Shelter 4: Also known as Allied Pole Shelter. Shelter can accommodate 75 people under the shelter. Handicapped accessible. No bathroom in this shelter, but adjacent shelter (#3) has a bathroom. Creek runs in front of shelter; horseshoe pit in area, but guests must bring their own horseshoes. Features electrical outlets, lights, one large grill, handicapped accessible bathrooms near adjacent shelter (#3).
Group shelter: Shelter accommodates 50 under roof. Park supplies are stored here so don't be suprised by interruptions from the park maintenance crew. Two standard size grills, limited parking (no more than 30 vehicles). Has lights, bathroom and level area for games.
Nine of the park's 14 miles of trails, which are open year-round, are multi-use. That section is open to hiking, bicycling (mountain bikes only) and horseback riding. The remainder is hiking only.
Birdwatchers can spot species like the Red-eyed Vireo, Ovenbird and Scarlet Tanager. The park's lake attracts waterfowl such as Mallards and Canada Geese. Raptors including Bald Eagles are also sighted frequently.
The forest is home to Wood Thrushes, Yellow-billed Cuckoo, Eastern Towhee among others. Birding trails provide opportunities for spotting various warblers during migration season.
In winter months one might see Dark-eyed Juncos or White-throated Sparrows while walking through wooded areas of the park.
Overall it offers diverse habitats making bird-watching a rewarding experience throughout different seasons with over 100 recorded avian species in total.
Blue Ridge River Resorts
2446 Deer Run Rd
Ferrum, VA
(276) 930-1916
Building Contractors
Vacation and retirement Log cabin packages for sale. Lowest prices in America.
12 miles from park*
From I-81 near Roanoke, take exit to Route 581 to Route 220 South to Route 57 West to Route 346 North (Fairystone Lake Drive). From I-77 near Hillsville, take Route 58 East to Route 8 North to Route 57 East to Route 346 North (Fairystone Lake Drive). From Greensboro, take Route 220 North to Route 220 North bypass at Martinsville, then Route 57 West to Route 346 North. From Richmond, take Route 360 West to Route 58 West to Route 220 North Bypass at Martinsville to Route 57 West to Route 346 North.
We stayed in Cabin 2 along the lake front. Although cold outside, we had a wonderful fireplace that we kept going. There is central heat/air that works great. The cabin and grounds of Fairystone were in fantastic shape and we look forward to camping there again. Would recommend to anyone! What a wonderful getaway with NO TV (unless you wanted it), Internet, computers and ringing phones.
We rented the lodge for a long weekend and had a wonderful time. 5 bedrooms, 3 with bunk beds 2 with queens beds. 3 full baths. Kitchen has 2 refrigerators, microwave, stove and coffee maker. Covered patio with picnic table and rocking chairs. Perfect place for us to have a christian retreat for our church group. Lots of hiking trails.
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