Virginia's Newest State Park Is A Woodsy Escape With Peaceful Hiking Trails And An 1800s Farmhouse

Virginia has arguably some of the best state parks in the country. For nearly a century, the state has drawn families looking to escape the city, get away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, and relax in nature's peace and serenity. Virginia's state parks boast an incredible diversity, from the gorgeous coastal land of Belle Isle and First Landing to the dramatic Blue Ridge Mountain scenery of Fairy Stone and Grayson Highlands. But one of Virginia's most charming and enjoyable state parks is also its newest. Hayfields State Park was dedicated in October 2025, becoming Virginia's 44th state park, following the purchase of the land by the Virginia Outdoors Foundation. 

The park covers just over 1,000 acres of forests, steep mountains, valley pastures, some historic structures, and includes the Bullpasture River and about 4 miles of hiking trails. Found just outside the town of McDowell in the northwestern corner of the state, it's just a couple of hours away from Virginia's gorgeous Skyline Drive, one of the most beautiful landscapes in the world. Here's why it's worth a visit if you're in the area.

Hayfields State Park is a wonderfully woodsy escape, a chance to immerse yourself in the Virginia countryside and enjoy the rural tranquility and picturesque scenery. Highland County, where the park is located, boasts densely wooded mountain slopes and is often referred to as Virginia's Little Switzerland because of its steep inclines, towering peaks, and wildflower meadows. The deep forests are a showcase of classic Appalachian tree varieties like oak, maple, and hickory, with rhododendron and mountain laurel thrown in for good measure.

Although the park is relatively small, it still has some great hiking, thanks to the rolling slopes of the Jack and Bullpasture Mountains. The River Loop Trail is a great place to start, a gentle stroll along the banks of the beautiful Bullpasture River, while the Eagle's Rest Trail adds in some ascent up to a scenic overlook with views across the park. The most challenging trail in the park is the Bear Pond and Laurel Trail Loop, a 2.2-mile loop under a canopy of oaks and maples. The Bullpasture River is also known as a decent catch-and-release trout fishing spot, especially in spring, and anglers will enjoy the opportunity to cast a line from the banks.

Despite its remote location and rugged mountain terrain, the region was settled in the mid-18th century by Scots-Irish and German immigrant farmers, though Indigenous peoples had traversed the region long before that. That newer European history is reflected in a pair of historic buildings which have been preserved as attractions: a charming 1800s farmhouse and a small cabin where the local doctor practiced.

As Virginia's newest state park, Hayfields remains a work in progress. As such, it currently operates as a day-use destination, with no overnight camping permitted. There is plenty of parking for visitors, as well as picnic areas with tables and shade, so that travelers looking to hike or bike the trails, or fish on the Bullpasture River, can enjoy a comfortable day out. As of this writing, plans are in motion to expand the waymarked trails and add additional amenities and outdoor education opportunities, with much of the work expected to begin sometime in 2027.

The park is best visited in spring, summer, and autumn, as its high elevation means a colder climate than the rest of Virginia, and winter brings freezing temperatures and significant snowfall. Fall is a particularly lovely season in Virginia, and a visit to Hayfields can be combined with a trip to Shenandoah National Park, one of the best parks for fall foliage in the U.S. Whatever season you visit, it is worth paying attention to the weather reports and erring on the side of caution when it comes to clothing, with plenty of layers to stay warm.

Hayfields State Park is a great destination for wildlife watchers, as its remote, unspoiled location means that there are plenty of interesting species that flourish here. Visitors often see white-tailed deer, black bears, bobcats, and coyotes, as well as ospreys, owls, and wild turkeys.