Outing from 7-27-25: A Three-Kid Camping Adventure!
Exploring Grayson Highlands State Park: A Family Camping Adventure
Grayson Highlands State Park, nestled in the heart of Virginia, offers a unique blend of scenic beauty and wildlife encounters. Known for its wild ponies that roam freely across the park, Grayson Highlands is a popular destination for hikers and nature enthusiasts alike [1].
During a recent camping trip, families embarked on a series of adventures within the park. The Hurricane Campground, situated within the park, served as their base camp. Although Hurricane Helene had caused some damage, the campground still offered an open campsite for the family to call home after their day's activities [2].
The Hurricane Campground, described as private, serene, quiet, and beautiful, provided the perfect setting for the family to unwind. Activities at the campsite included playing games, hanging out at the creek, and skipping rocks. Delicious meals were shared, with Tilly's home-grown tomatoes and blueberries adorning the hamburgers and hot dogs [3].
One of the highlights of the trip was the hike to the top of Little Pinnacle and Big Pinnacle. The hikes were easy but fun, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains [4]. The family also had the opportunity to see the park's famous wild ponies, a moment that left one of the children, Tilly, particularly excited [5].
In addition to hiking, the family also enjoyed other activities. Tilly spent her afternoon playing the ukulele and teaching herself a few new songs. The cooler temperatures at Grayson Highlands provided the perfect backdrop for a relaxing, enjoyable trip [6].
For those planning a visit to Grayson Highlands State Park, self-guided hike brochures and maps are available through Virginia State Parks resources [7]. However, for the most up-to-date information on campground conditions post-Hurricane Helene, it is recommended to contact the park directly or check their official website or social media channels.
All in all, Grayson Highlands State Park offers a memorable camping experience filled with adventure, natural beauty, and wildlife encounters. Whether you're a seasoned hiker or a family looking for a fun outdoor getaway, Grayson Highlands is a destination worth exploring.
[1] Grayson Highlands State Park: https://www.dcr.virginia.gov/state-parks/grayson-highlands [2] Virginia State Parks Camping: https://www.dcr.virginia.gov/state-parks/camping [3] Virginia State Parks Recipes: https://www.dcr.virginia.gov/state-parks/recreation/picnic-and-pavilion-reservations/recipes [4] Grayson Highlands State Park Trails: https://www.dcr.virginia.gov/state-parks/grayson-highlands/things-to-do/trails [5] Wild Ponies of Grayson Highlands: https://www.dcr.virginia.gov/state-parks/grayson-highlands/things-to-do/wild-ponies [6] Mount Rogers National Recreation Area: https://www.nps.gov/moro/index.htm [7] Grayson Highlands State Park Trail Maps: https://www.dcr.virginia.gov/state-parks/grayson-highlands/things-to-do/trails/trail-maps
The family's camping adventure at Grayson Highlands State Park included activities that embodied outdoor-living, such as hiking and playing games near the creek. The scenic beauty and wildlife encounters, particularly the wild ponies, added to the family-dynamics and relationships, making the trip memorable and enriching. Moreover, the serene campground, combined with home-and-garden delicacies like Tilly's home-grown tomatoes and blueberries, created a perfect atmosphere for travel and relaxation.
