Fairy Stone State Park • Today, June 5, 2025
Your comprehensive guide to a fun-filled day!
A major park capital improvement project is scheduled from **November 2024 through early 2026.**
During this period, the main road through the park may be closed, and other services or access could be affected. It is highly recommended to **check the official Virginia State Parks website for Fairy Stone for the most current alerts and conditions before your visit.**
Hourly breakdown and key insights to help you plan for the conditions.
Expect cool, cloudy conditions with a moderate chance of showers (40-47%). This might make your fishing experience a bit damp, so dress accordingly.
The weather should become partly sunny and significantly warmer. However, this period also carries a consistent 40-47% chance of thunderstorms. This is the main weather concern.
With partly sunny skies in the afternoon, the UV index will likely be high. Ensure regular sunscreen application.
Given the persistent chance of thunderstorms, especially during swimming activities, it's vital to be weather-aware. Listen for thunder and watch for darkening skies. Seek safe shelter immediately if a thunderstorm approaches.
7:00 AM - 8:00 AM
Final packing, quick stop at Walmart for worms & water shoes, load up, and depart from Ridgeway.
8:00 AM - 8:30 AM
Enjoy the drive to the park.
8:30 AM - 9:00 AM
Pay entry fee ($7), find a good spot near the beach, set up base camp, apply sunscreen.
9:00 AM - 11:30 AM
Relaxed fishing, teach casting, practice catch-and-release. Enjoy the prime fishing time.
11:30 AM - 12:30 PM
Fuel up with your packed lunch. Hydrate!
12:30 PM - 1:00 PM
Rent life vests, change into swimsuits, reapply sunscreen.
1:00 PM - 3:30 PM
Splash time at the guarded beach! Build sandcastles, use water play structures. Supervise closely.
3:30 PM onwards
Dry off, change, return life vests, clean up. Head home with happy memories!
The day's fun, by popular demand!
967 Fairystone Lake Dr., Stuart, VA 24171
(Approx. 30-40 min drive from Ridgeway)
8:00 AM - 10:00 PM
The 168-acre Fairy Stone Lake is the heart of the park, great for fishing.
Swimming beach, bathhouse, picnic shelters, three playgrounds, hiking trails. Boat rentals include kayaks, canoes, paddleboats, and stand-up paddleboards.
Always check the official Virginia State Parks website for the latest updates and any alerts regarding the capital improvement project.
If you're feeling adventurous and have extra time!
Fairy Stone State Park is famous for its unique cross-shaped staurolite crystals. The designated hunting area is **not** near the main swimming beach.
Location: Behind the Fairystone Pitstop on Route 57, a few miles east of the park's main entrance. You'll need to drive there separately.
Tips: No tools allowed (hands only!). Look in creek beds and washout areas, especially after rain. Bring a small container and bug spray. Patience is key!