About HORSESHOE POINT
Overview Horseshoe Point Campground is nestled on the shores of Philpott Lake in the rugged foothills of Virgina's Blue Ridge Mountains. The park is located in a rural and sparsely populated part of Franklin County near the small community of Henry. Philpott Lake's clear water and natural shoreline make it a unique place for visitors to enjoy boating, fishing, hiking, picnicking and camping. Click here for the Philpott Lake Virtual Tour: https://corpslakes.erdc.dren.mil/visitors/virtual/philpott/tour.html 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.Facilities The park offers both camping and day-use facilities: 15 campsites with electric and water hookups are available, as well as 34 primitive sites without hookups. Amenities include flush toilets, showers, drinking water and a dump station. For additional family-friendly entertainment, a beach, boat ramp, dock, picnic shelter and playground are also on-site.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. 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.
How to Get There
From HWY 220, turn onto Henry Road (SR-605) and go 8 miles. Turn left onto Horseshoe Point Road and follow signs to the park.
Driving directions (Google Maps) →What to Pack for Your Stay
Tuned to the live forecast for this park.
👔 What to Wear
- 👕
Long-sleeve shirt
Synthetic or merino, sun-protective.
- 🧥
Light shell or windbreaker
Even on warm days, wind can chill (avg wind 0 mph).
- 👖
Hiking pants or convertible
Layer for variable conditions.
- 🥾
Trail runners or low boots
Comfortable, broken in.
🎒 What to Pack
- 💧
Water
Bring at least 1L of water; more in heat.
- 🍫
High-energy snacks
A snack for the trail.
- 🧴
Sun protection
Sunscreen, sunglasses, brimmed hat.
- 🩹
First-aid kit
Blister patches, ibuprofen, tape, antiseptic wipes.
- 🗺
Offline map
Download your route in advance via Gaia, Caltopo, or OSM-based apps.
Recommendations adapt to the current forecast + trail stats. Use them as a starting point — local conditions, your experience, and the time of day you start all matter.
Plan Your Visit to HORSESHOE POINT
Heading to HORSESHOE POINT? A few things to know before you go:
- Reservations: popular sites fill up fast — check Recreation.gov 6 months in advance
- Fees: day-use and camping fees vary; check current rates on the official park page
- Trash & pack-out: follow Leave No Trace principles
- Wildlife: store food in bear boxes where provided; never feed wildlife
- Weather: the 5-day forecast above is updated every 6 hours; verify just before you go
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a reservation for HORSESHOE POINT?
No central reservation system listed for HORSESHOE POINT. Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/233515) for the latest entry policy and availability.
How do I get to HORSESHOE POINT?
From HWY 220, turn onto Henry Road (SR-605) and go 8 miles. Turn left onto Horseshoe Point Road and follow signs to the park.
How do I contact HORSESHOE POINT?
You can reach the park at phone: (540) 365-7385.
References & Official Resources
