DOUGHTON PARK

Located on the Blue Ridge Parkway between mileposts 239-248, Doughton Park is one of the less frequented parks along the national park, but boasts some trails with amazing views! Here are some highlights:

BRINEGAR CABIN
Visit the restored Brinegar Cabin and, during the summer months, watch weaving demonstrations and learn about the mountain way of life from Blue Ridge Parkway volunteers. You can also view a traditional mountain garden and spring house.

DOUGHTON PARK CAMPGROUND
One of the largest campgrounds on the Blue Ridge Parkway with both tent and rv pull-ins available. Bath houses are on site. During the summer months, ranger programs take place in the common area.

BLUFFS PICNIC AREA & HIKING TRAILS
This is a large picnic area with shaded and sunny areas to enjoy your meal. Restrooms are on site. The Fodder Stack trail that begins in the picnic area, is a great trail for families that leads to an overlook.
*Didn't bring lunch? Head over to Bluffs Restaurant!

NEW RIVER STATE PARK

Curious about the "second oldest river in the world?"  This is a great starting point for exploration! Here are some highlights of the state park:

HIKING
Hike along the New River and see the natural life that makes a home along the ancient waterway. Trails range from .25 - 2 miles in length

PADDLE
The New River is well worn and makes for a relaxing float. Talk to the staff in the New River Visitor Center and pick up a canoe map before you hit the water.  There are many convenient pick up and drop off points. 
Don't have a canoe or kayak? Contact local outfitter Dusty Trails Outfitters

CAMP
New River State Park is the only park in the High Country to offer walk-in, canoe-in, backpack-in and RV camping! Take advantage of the flexibility and enjoy a night under the stars.

OLDE BEAU GOLF COURSE

This 18-hole/ par-72 golf course sits atop a mountain on the eastern edge of the Blue Ridge Mountains near Sparta. The course at Olde Beau is rated 4.5 stars by Fodor's and has been named one of the “Top 50 Development Courses in the Southeast” by GOLFWEEK magazine.  What makes the course even better?  The perfect mountain climate of course! Not too hot in the summer and not too cold in the fall months.

Visiting the High Country region?  Old Beau is also a great place to stay.  The resort has villas and cottages for overnight stays and multiple restaurants on site.  Check out the STAY & PLAY PACKAGES

PUBLIC MOUNTAIN TROUT WATERS

With the mountain views and cool, fresh air- there is no better place to go fishing! There are over 10 public mountain trout waters in Alleghany County! You can find a list of locations HERE.

*Don't forget to purchase a short-term fishing license.  You can purchase one:

• Online HERE 
• S & L Outdoor Sports Supply: 38 S Main St, Sparta

SAM BROWN PARK DISC GOLF COURSE

The newest public disc golf course in the High Country, Sam Brown Park features 18 holes that are open year-round! Enjoy views of the mountains in the winter months and bask in the shade during the summer.  For details on the course, click the link above or click to the Facebook page HERE

SAM BROWN PARK
The park is also home to a covered picnic shelter, playground, basketball courts and hiking/ mountain biking trails.