Douthat State Park
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Location
Bath and Alleghany counties, near Millboro
Setting
Alleghany Mountains
Highlights
Lake, trails, cabins and camping
Managed by
Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation
Douthat State Park pairs a 50-acre mountain lake with forested slopes and a trail network of more than 40 miles. Visitors can plan a day around hiking, biking, horseback riding or time by the water, or stay overnight in a cabin or campground. The park’s activities and facilities vary by season, so check Virginia State Parks’ current information before setting out.[1][2]
Douthat is also a place to experience the early history of Virginia’s state park system. Built largely by the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) in the 1930s, its historic cabins, landscape and park structures remain part of the visit. The park was recognized as a National Register historic district in 1986.[3]
Plan a trip to Douthat State Park
Why visit Douthat State Park?
Douthat suits visitors who want a mix of mountain scenery and outdoor options in one place. The lake gives the park a focal point for swimming and boating, while trails reach into the surrounding woods. Overnight choices range from campsites to cabins, including historic log cabins built during the park’s early years.[4][5]
It is equally rewarding for travelers interested in how public recreation developed in Virginia. Douthat was one of the Commonwealth’s original six state parks, and many of its early buildings and trails reflect the CCC’s work during the 1930s and early 1940s.[6]
Start here
Begin near Douthat Lake, where the main recreation area brings together the shoreline, swimming beach and access to boating. If you have more time, use the park’s official trail and facility guides to choose a route and locate facilities; conditions and available services can change, so confirm details with the park before visiting.[7][8]
For an overnight visit, consider a cabin or campsite and check current availability and reservation requirements through Virginia State Parks. Some historic cabins are CCC-era log structures; the park also offers other cabin and lodge options.[9]
What to see and do
Douthat Lake
Spend time by the 50-acre lake, swim at the beach when it is open, or explore the available boating options. Confirm seasonal operations and current rules before your visit.
Hiking and biking trails
Explore a trail system extending more than 40 miles through wooded mountain terrain. Consult the official trail guide to choose a suitable route and check for current notices.
Horseback riding
The park includes designated horse trails, including a multi-use equestrian route. Review the park’s trail information for current access and route details.
CCC-era cabins
Stay in a historic log cabin or choose from the park’s other overnight accommodations. Cabin styles and amenities differ; check current descriptions and availability before booking.
Camping
Campgrounds offer another way to stay close to the park’s lake and trails. Sites, operating seasons and services vary, so verify current details with Virginia State Parks.
History and significance
Douthat was among six state parks planned by Virginia in the early 1930s. The Douthat Land Company donated the initial 1,920 acres, and additional land was purchased with state funds set aside for parkland. The CCC helped develop the park, with workers building trails, a dam and spillway, cabins, a beach, picnic areas and other facilities between 1933 and 1942.[10]
The park opened in 1936 as part of Virginia’s first group of state parks. Its early cabins and other CCC-built features connect the visitor experience to the wider history of public recreation and New Deal-era park development. In 1986, Douthat was recognized as a National Register historic district.[11][12]
Planning a visit
Douthat State Park is in the Alleghany Highlands, near Millboro, and spans Bath and Alleghany counties. Use the official park page for current directions, contact details, fees, hours, alerts and facility information. These details can change, particularly with season, weather or maintenance.[13]
Check the trail guide before hiking or biking, and plan for mountain terrain and changing conditions. For lake activities, overnight stays and seasonal facilities, verify what is operating and whether reservations or other requirements apply. Virginia State Parks provides current cabin information and booking details online.[14][15]
Nearby attractions
Clifton Forge, Virginia
A nearby Alleghany Highlands town and a useful base for exploring the region.
Covington, Virginia
Explore the Alleghany Highlands community west of the park.
Falling Spring Falls
A notable waterfall stop in the Alleghany Highlands.
George Washington and Jefferson National Forests
Explore additional public lands and outdoor recreation across western Virginia.
Books and useful gear: Browse related travel books and outdoor gear on Amazon
References
- ↑ Douthat State Park, Virginia State Parks, Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation. Retrieved 2026-10-23.
- ↑ 5 must-do activities at Douthat State Park, Virginia State Parks, Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation, May 6, 2026. Retrieved 2026-10-23.
- ↑ Douthat State Park, Virginia State Parks, Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation. Retrieved 2026-10-23.
- ↑ Douthat State Park, Virginia State Parks, Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation. Retrieved 2026-10-23.
- ↑ Cabins at Virginia State Parks, Virginia State Parks, Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation. Retrieved 2026-10-23.
- ↑ History of Virginia State Parks, Virginia State Parks, Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation. Retrieved 2026-10-23.
- ↑ Welcome to Douthat State Park: Facilities Guide, Virginia State Parks, Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation. Retrieved 2026-10-23.
- ↑ Welcome to Douthat State Park: Trail Guide, Virginia State Parks, Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation. Retrieved 2026-10-23.
- ↑ Cabins at Virginia State Parks, Virginia State Parks, Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation. Retrieved 2026-10-23.
- ↑ Douthat State Park, Virginia State Parks, Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation. Retrieved 2026-10-23.
- ↑ History of Virginia State Parks, Virginia State Parks, Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation. Retrieved 2026-10-23.
- ↑ A legacy refreshed: Renovations at Douthat Lodge, Virginia State Parks, Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation, February 3, 2026. Retrieved 2026-10-23.
- ↑ Douthat State Park, Virginia State Parks, Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation. Retrieved 2026-10-23.
- ↑ Welcome to Douthat State Park: Trail Guide, Virginia State Parks, Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation. Retrieved 2026-10-23.
- ↑ Cabins at Virginia State Parks, Virginia State Parks, Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation. Retrieved 2026-10-23.