About PHILPOTT PARK
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 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 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. 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, 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.
Driving directions (Google Maps) →What to Pack for Your Stay
Tuned to the live forecast for this park.
👔 What to Wear
- 👕
Moisture-wicking T-shirt
Light color, breathable.
- 🩳
Lightweight shorts or pants
Quick-dry preferred — sweat dries fast.
- 🧢
Brimmed sun hat
Better than a cap for back-of-neck protection.
- 🥾
Trail runners
Breathable mesh uppers.
🎒 What to Pack
- 💧
Water
Bring at least 1L of water; more in heat.
- 🍫
High-energy snacks
A snack for the trail.
- 🧴
Sun protection (UV 7)
SPF 50+ sunscreen, lip balm w/ SPF, sunglasses, sun 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 PHILPOTT PARK
Heading to PHILPOTT PARK? 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 PHILPOTT PARK?
No central reservation system listed for PHILPOTT PARK. Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/233582) for the latest entry policy and availability.
How do I get to PHILPOTT PARK?
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.
How do I contact PHILPOTT PARK?
You can reach the park at phone: 276-629-2703.
References & Official Resources
