11 Best Small Towns in Virginia for Outdoor Enthusiasts

Museums, opera houses, and shopping centers are not for everyone. When some people travel it is not history and architecture they seek to find, but outdoor adventures and a chance to escape the repetitive world of work and home. They want to get active and make exercise a central component of their vacation. Their idea of a dream vacation involves nature, animals, beautiful landscapes, and enjoying the weather. If you are one of these people, then Virgina has just what you are looking for.

Abingdon

The history found in Abingdon is evident, but it has much more to offer than just simply Barter Theatre, State Theatre of Virginia, or a historical presence of Native American tribes. It also has everything needed for a fun trip in the great outdoors. Being close in proximity to Mount Rogers, Virginia's highest peak, the town offers every kind of outdoor fun imaginable. There's Virginia Creeper Trail, which is a renowned biking and hiking path. It is also perfect for jogging or calm work with friends. The Holston River also offers fishing opportunities, as well as kayaking and canoeing. Not to mention, every year, the town hosts the Annual Virginia Highlands Festival, showcasing outdoor arts.

Lexington

Lexington is perfect for those who enjoy outdoor activities with a little less incline. This town is perfect for family trips or couples getaways. The Maury River gives opportunities for countless possibilities. It is a popular canoeing and kayaking hotspot. Its banks are great for picnics and bar-b-qs as well as the Chessie Nature Trail along the Maury River that is used for biking, running, and skateboarding. Lexington also offers horseback riding opportunities in the surrounding Shenandoah Valley. The historical significance of the Stonewall Jackson House also should not be overlooked, and Washington and Lee University’s notable architecture will inspire more than a few family photos.

Middleburg

There are several ways to enjoy outdoor adventures in Middleburg. The town offers several events every year to bring travelers to its charming streets. Between the Middleburg Spring Races, the annual steeplechase event, and the Salamander Resort & Spa with its Equestrian activities and trails, the town creates countless chances to enjoy nature and get that daily dose of exercise. There are vineyards and wineries with outdoor tasting rooms and the historic Red Fox Inn & Tavern, established in 1728, that offer even a little romantic atmosphere to all the physical activity. With immediate proximity to the Bull Run Mountains, one can partake in bird watching, hiking, and camping. However, don't forget to take the time to explore the history of the town and Middleburg's role in the Civil War.

Chincoteague

Chincoteague is an animal lover's paradise. The town is perfect for planning trips that are both family-friendly and educational. The Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge offers Birdwatching and nature trails. It also grants access to Assateague Island's beaches. There are boat tours for dolphin and whale watching, and for lunch, you can enjoy the local seafood harvest, especially oysters and clams, which are a town specialty. The Annual Pony Swim and Auction offers a unique experience of local traditions, and you can also learn about the Island's role in the space program at the nearby Wallops Flight Facility. Chinoceteague will certainly amaze children and inspire their imaginations. Make sure to consider it for the next family summer vacation. 

Damascus

Not to be confused with its biblical counterpart located in the Middle East, the town of Damascus guarantees plenty of outdoor fun and adventure. It rests close to White Top Mountain, which offers much mountain activity and connects it to the Appalachian Trail community. Where one can find the ideal setting for hiking and community events. Every year, there is the Annual Trail Days festival celebrating outdoor life, bringing families from the surrounding area for fun and games in nature. The town also offers fly fishing in Whitetop Laurel Creek. When not outdoors, you can explore the Damascus Old Mill. It is a landmark with a history in gristmilling that helps to explain the town's historical importance in the timber industry.

Floyd

Known for FloydFest, an Annual music and arts festival in the Blue Ridge Mountains, Floyd should be on everyone's list of must-visit cities. It supplies a little for everyone with its Chateau Morrisette Winery, perfect for outdoor events and home to dog-friendly trails, and its yoga and wellness retreats in the surrounding mountains. All are ideal for a relaxing escape to detox and destress. You can explore Buffalo Mountain Natural Area Preserve's unique ecosystem before appreciating the art to be found in town, like Floyd's role in Appalachian music history or the Artisan Trail Network with its local crafts and outdoor markets.

Luray

Luray is famous for being home to the largest caverns in the Eastern United States. Also, it is situated not far from Shenandoah National Park, which is excellent for Hiking and camping. Exploration and adventure are far from short supply for any brave enough to seek them out. South Fork Shenandoah River is great for rafting and fishing. The town hosts the Annual Luray Triathlon event, putting physical fitness and determination to the ultimate test. A gem for children there is the Luray Zoo, a rescue zoo focusing on conservation, which brings education that pairs perfectly with the historical importance and lessons found in the Luray Valley Museum.

Smithfield

This town boasts Windsor Castle Park—208 acres of riverside park with trails providing the opportunity for really any outdoor activity imaginable. You can find accommodations at Smithfield Station, with its waterfront marina and several options for lodging and experiencing the historic Smithfield Farmers Market. Be sure to stop inside the Isle of Wight County Museum and explore the history of ham production. The town also offers fun on the Pagan River, where one can find kayaking and paddleboarding. If you plan your trip around the annual Smithfield Wine & Brew Fest you are sure to make memories that will last for a lifetime. 

Front Royal

Gateway to Shenandoah National Park and experience a sense of fun unmatched anywhere else. Birdwatching, camping, and hiking are just a few opportunities to be had at the Shenandoah River State Park. Not to mention, the Skyline Caverns display unique anthodite formations that will amaze all who see them. The town has the Front Royal Canoe Company, which provides river expeditions on the Shenandoah as well as the Warren Rifles Confederate Museum, depicting the history of the town and the battle of Front Royal, a significant point of Civil War significance.

Culpeper

Home to Lake Pelham Culpeper, it is the perfect destination for boating and fishing activities. It is close in proximity to the Rapidan Wildlife Management Area for animal and birdwatching, and for more outdoor fun, there are also Culpeper Harvest Day’s farm tours offering agritourism experiences. Every year there is the Culpeper Cycling Century event brings cyclists from all over the country who get to also partake in the Culpeper Renaissance experience, a revitalized historic downtown area with numerous outdoor dining options

Wytheville

Wytheville played a vital role in the Revolutionary and Civil Wars. However, today it is known for Big Walker Lookout, Virginia's oldest privately-owned scenic attraction, and its proximity to Jefferson National Forest. The New River Trail State Park is great for Biking and horseback riding, and the town holds an Annual Chautauqua Festival in Elizabeth Brown Memorial Park. Wytheville boasts a love for green spaces unlike any other and is sure to provide everything you need for a memorable family trip or simply a weekend getaway with friends for Bar-b-qing and frisbee.

Discover Virginia's Outdoor Wonders

Fun in the sun is not just limited to days at the beach. It can be found anywhere that nature delivers opportunities for adventure and exercise. Virginia may be home to some of the most significant large cities in America, but in its small towns, you will find the chance to make last memories. That you, your friends, and even the youngest members of your family will adore. The state is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and should not be overlooked.