Located in Southwest Virginia’s Wythe, County, Foster’s Falls Campground and State Park offers a wonderful outdoor adventure for individuals and families. Foster’s Falls are a set of beautiful falls in the New River. The campground sits adjacent to the falls and the sound of the falling water allows for an amazing night’s rest.
New River Adventures
When one isn't sleeping, the New River offers more adventures than a traveler can shake a stick at. Be sure to bring along some fishing gear. In 2007, a local fisherman caught a 45 pound muskie near the falls, a Virginia state record. Head over to the Foster Falls River Company and rent inner tubes ($10/day), canoes (7$/hour/$30/day), kayaks (7$/hour/$30/day), bikes ($6/hour/$20/day), and even horses (call (276) 699-6778 for prices)! Horses and bikes may be ridden on the nearby New River Trail, a 52 mile long trail that runs along old the path of an old railroad next to the New River. The New River Trail is headquartered at Foster’s Falls.
Not an Outdoorsman?
Also available at Foster’s Falls are a picnic shelter and playground for kids. If anyone in the family has an artistic streak, pack a camera. The falls offer picturesque scenery that even a layman can use to make a great picture. Many birds and wildlife make their homes near the falls, so visitors should keep their eyes peeled for photo-ops with the local animals. Watch out for the bears though. They hate the camera flash!
Amenities
For amenities not offered at the falls, two nearby towns can provide assistance. Take Interstate 77 North to the town of Wytheville for lodging, restaurants, and shopping. Take Interstate 77 South to Galax for similar lodging, shopping, and restaurants. Wytheville offers more lodging than Galax, and both offer a variety of eats from typical chain restaurants to local favorites. Both towns are a ten to twenty minute drive from the falls, with Galax being a bit farther away than Wytheville.
On the third Saturday of each September, Wythe County holds its Heritage Day at the falls. The Foster’s Falls Railway Festival is typically held in early September as well.
Of historical interest at the falls are several old buildings and structures, not all have been refurbished. These include an old railway depot and restored caboose, a grist mill, a hotel, and an old iron furnace.
To get to Foster’s Falls take Exit 24, the Poplar Camp exit, off of Interstate 77. Follow the signs. The campground is easy to find.
