In the wilderness surrounding Breaks Interstate Park, you’ll find a diverse array of flora, including fractal ferns, galax, coltsfoot, tea berries, and a profusion of fungi and moss species. These plants create an undergrowth of rich greens, complemented by the vibrant hues of bright yellows, oranges, and pinks. Take a hike on one of the park’s trails to witness the magnificent colors of this natural landscape.
Top Five Things to Do:
Rent a Lakefront Cabin: Enjoy the tranquility of our lakefront cabins surrounded by nature.
Mountain Bike the 12-Mile Stack Loop Trail: Experience breathtaking scenery on the stack loop trail, offering nearly 12 miles of varying difficulty for mountain biking enthusiasts.
Birding on the Virginia Wildlife Trail: Grab your binoculars and explore the diverse bird species along the Virginia Birding and Wildlife Trail, including Swainson’s Warbler, Hooded Warbler, and more.
Rent a Pedal Boat, Canoe, or John Boat on Laurel Lake: Take to the waters of Laurel Lake with pedal boats, canoes, or john boats available for rent. Perfect for exploring or a relaxing day of fishing.
Geocache One of 60 Sites: Embark on a treasure hunt adventure with geocaching—discover hidden caches in and around Breaks Interstate Park.
Additional Activities:
Biking: Explore the scenic Mountain Bike Trail system, offering up to 12 miles of riding with varying terrains.
Camping: Immerse yourself in the heart of nature at our campground, featuring 138 sites, from wooded areas to full RV hook-ups.
Fishing: Cast your line into Laurel Lake, Beaver Pond, or the Russell Fork River for a variety of fishing experiences.
Golf: Partnered with Willowbrook Country Club, our golf offering provides a challenging game amidst the Appalachian Mountains’ scenic beauty.
Hiking: Traverse over 25 miles of hiking trails, ranging from easy to difficult, and discover the park’s outstanding physical features.
Outdoor Theater: Enjoy special programs, movie showings, and music events in the park’s amphitheater, available for rental.
Rafting: Brave the rapids of the Russell Fork River with whitewater rafting adventures, available on weekends in October.
Swimming: Splash in the Park’s water features, including a leisure pool, water slides, and more, open seasonally.
Admission Fees for Splash in the Park:
Monday – Friday:
- Under four feet tall: $6
- Four feet tall and over: $8
- Seniors (age 55+): $6
- Infants age 1 and under: Free
Saturday – Sunday:
- Under four feet tall: $8
- Four feet tall and over: $10
- Seniors (age 55+): $8
- Infants age 1 and under: Free
Admission for kids under four feet tall is half-off after 3 pm on Mondays and Tuesdays.
History
Approximately 180 million years ago, in the era of dinosaurs, a vast inland sea retreated from what is now the region spanning Kentucky and Virginia. In its aftermath, it left behind a fertile cradle of botany. Simultaneously, the river that eventually became Russell Fork began the monumental task of sculpting an immense and breathtaking gorge, now renowned as the largest east of the Mississippi.
In the untamed wilderness enveloping Breaks Interstate Park, a diverse array of plant life flourishes. Fractal ferns, galax, coltsfoot, tea berries, and a profusion of fungi and moss species adorn the undergrowth in a tapestry of rich greens, vibrant yellows, oranges, and pinks. To witness the magnificence of these colors, embark on a hike along one of the park’s trails. It offers a unique vantage point to marvel at the vibrant hues woven into the natural landscape.
Lodging & Camping
Breaks Interstate Park offers a variety of accommodations, from woodland cottages to campsites, providing an opportunity to reconnect with nature in the serene Appalachians. Whether you seek lakefront log cabins or lodge rooms with stunning views, the park aims to fulfill your expectations, even those you hadn’t envisioned.
For outdoor enthusiasts, the park features scenic trails catering to nature lovers. Most trails are short and easy, allowing for a leisurely hike amidst the park’s natural beauty. Access to Laurel Lake and Russell Fork is a major draw for water sports enthusiasts.
Accommodation Options:
- Woodland Cottages
- Campsites
- Lakefront Log Cabins
- Lodge Rooms with Breathtaking Views
Outdoor Activities:
Hiking Trails: Explore short and easy hiking trails within the park, providing a scenic escape.
Water Sports: Enjoy access to Laurel Lake and Russell Fork for a variety of water sports activities.
Campground Information:
- Tent Sites
- Electric and Water Hookups for RV Campers
Visit the official website for Breaks Interstate Park for reservations and comprehensive information about the park.
Park Operations:
- Lodge Rooms and Cottages: Open
- Dining Room: Open from November 2020 (Fri. – Sun., 7 a.m. – 8 p.m.)
- Campground: Closed from Nov. 1, 2020, to March 15, 2021
- Grounds and Hiking Trails: Open
- Museum: By appointment only
Whether it’s a relaxing stay in the comfortable accommodations or an adventurous exploration of the park’s natural wonders, Breaks Interstate Park invites you to discover the unexpected in the heart of the Appalachians.