Known for showcasing Virginia’s highest peak (5,729-foot Mount Rogers), wild ponies, and stunning alpine-like views in the commonwealth’s Southwest mountains, Grayson Highlands State Park will soon be expanding by 16.7 acres through the acquisition of two adjacent land tracts.
Late last month, the Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR) announced that the 11.7-acre Lankford tract and the 5.1-acre Campbell tract have been acquired, expanding the park’s borders and improving its protection of natural resources.
The Lankford tract, a heavily forested area along the park’s southern boundary, was donated by frequent park visitors Annette Bradsher and Jay Lankford. DCR stated that the donation not only helps protect the area from development and increases access to a popular climbing area nearby, it also honors Lankford, who passed away last December.
The Campbell tract—a former homesite—was acquired from the namesake family, who had owned it since 1964. The acquisition helps improve security, management, and conservation of the park’s Northeast boundary while also blocking incompatible development.
For more information about Grayson Highlands State Park, visit www.virginiastateparks.gov/grayson-highlands.
Cover photo: Grayson Highlands State Park in Virginia courtesy of Getty Images
