Philpott Park

PHILPOTT PARK

Part of Philpott Lake

Overview

Philpott Park is nestled on the shores of Philpott Lake in the rugged foothills of Virginia's Blue Ridge Mountains. The clear water and natural shoreline make Philpott Lake a unique place for visitors to enjoy boating, fishing, hiking, picnicking and camping.

Philpott Lake Virtual Tour: https://corpslakes.erdc.dren.mil/visitors/virtual/philpott/tour.html 

Facilities

The park features an overlook where visitors have spectacular views of Philpott Lake and the Blue Ridge Mountains. It offers one group camping area and one day-use group picnic shelter.

Amenities include flush toilets, showers and drinking water. A boat ramp, playground, and hiking trail are on-site. The Powerhouse, Dam and Visitor Center are located in the park.

Natural Features

Philpott Lake covers 2,900 acres and has 100 miles of shoreline. The lake's steep, rocky banks meet beautiful mixed forests of oak, maple, hickory, pine and cedar.

Wildlife is abundant throughout the area. Deer, turkeys, squirrels, raccoons, and a variety of songbirds and waterfowl are commonly viewed.

Recreation

The lake provides visitors with great boating and swimming opportunities. Anglers enjoy fishing for large and smallmouth bass, walleye, bluegill, crappie and catfish.

Many miles of hiking and biking trails surround Philpott Lake, allowing visitors to get out and explore this scenic area.

Nearby Attractions

The lake is adjacent to Fairystone State Park and Fairystone Farms Wildlife Management Area, which includes 5,300 acres of public recreational lands.

Important Notices

  • No alcohol is allowed.

  • Group Camp Area is operated by Henry County Parks and Recreation. For reservations, call (276) 340-0485 or visit henrycountyva.gov for more information.

  • Don't Move Firewood: Protect your forests from tree-killing pests by buying your firewood locally and burning it on-site. Visit Dontmovefirewood.org for further information.
  • STOP THE SPREAD OF INVASIVE SPECIES. Remove plants, seeds, animals, and mud from boots, gear, pets, and vehicles. Clean your gear before entering and leaving the recreation site. Stay on designated roads and trails, and follow local guidelines for firewood. CLEAN, DRAIN, DRY boats and any other recreational equipment that contacts water. Dispose of unwanted bait, worms, fish parts, or other organisms into the trash and not into the environment. For more information visit invasivespeciesinfo.gov/rec. 

Available Activities

  • SWIMMING SITE - Swimming
  • HIKING - Hiking
  • FISHING - Fishing
  • CAMPING - Camping
  • BOATING - Boating

Directions

From HWY 220, take the Bassett, VA exit onto State Highway 57 West. Stay on 57 West for approximately 6 miles to Philpott Dam Road. Look for brown Philpott Dam sign, turn right and go one mile to the Philpott Park entrance.

Contact Information

Phone: 276-629-2703

1058 PHILPOTT DAM ROAD
BASSETT, VA 24055-8617

Rental Options

Learn more about gear rental options for your trip

Available Campsites

Photo Gallery