Twin Lakes State Park wilderness guide
State Park · VA
Paddle%20Sports Guide

Twin Lakes State Park

Twin Lakes State Park in Virginia offers a diverse mix of outdoor activities with its wooded trails and serene lakes perfect for hiking, camping, and fishing.

State Park4954+ Trails
DesignationState Park
Total Wilderness Area495
Elevation / TerrainDiverse Wilderness
Field Editorial Guide

About Twin Lakes State Park

Twin Lakes State Park in Virginia offers a diverse mix of outdoor activities with its wooded trails and serene lakes perfect for hiking, camping, and fishing.

Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage

Twin Lakes State Park is located in the Piedmont region of Virginia, encompassing over 495 acres of diverse natural landscapes. The park is centered around two main lakes, Goodwin Lake and Prince Edward Lake, offering ample opportunities for water-based recreation. The park features scenic wooded areas and meandering trails that highlight the unique ecology of the area, including oak and pine forests native to the region. Historically, the parkland has evolved from a segregated recreation facility to an inclusive area that invites all visitors. Recreational opportunities abound, with hiking trails providing scenic viewpoints and wildlife observation areas. The lakes are stocked with a variety of fish, enhancing the appeal for anglers. Park amenities like picnic areas, a boat launch, and campgrounds make it a versatile spot for family outings. Twin Lakes State Park is notable not only for its natural beauty but also for its family-friendly environment and accessible facilities, drawing outdoor enthusiasts and relaxation seekers alike.

Field Guide · State Park
Adventure Destinations

Notable Destinations Near Twin Lakes State Park

Scenic viewpoints, outdoor landmarks, and notable points of interest within 60 miles.

Key Wilderness Highlights

✦ The Goodwin Lake – ideal for kayaking and canoeing.✦ The Cedar Crest Overlook – offers panoramic views of the surrounding forest.✦ Prince Edward Lake – popular for fishing and swimming.✦ Goodwin Lake Trail – a short but scenic loop with excellent birdwatching opportunities.
Wilderness Visuals & Gallery

Visual Guide to Twin Lakes State Park

Wilderness Recreation

Outdoor Adventures in Twin Lakes State Park

Explore curated guides for top outdoor sports, trail networks, and wilderness activities.

The Ranger Station

Visitor Logistics & Essential Planning

Everything you need to know about entrance passes, seasons, visitor centers, road transit, and wildlife safety in Twin Lakes State Park.

Passes & Fees

Entrance Requirements & Interagency Passes

Daily parking fees apply, or an annual pass can be purchased.

Wilderness Checklist

Carry paper topographic map & compass in remote zones.
Store all food and scented items in approved bear canisters.
Check wildfire / smoke advisories before backcountry departure.
Pack out everything you pack in (Leave No Trace).
Wilderness Stays

Camping & Overnight Stays in Twin Lakes State Park

Frontcountry developed campgrounds, backcountry wilderness permit guidelines, and starry-night camping advice.

Adventure Basecamps

Gateway Towns Near Twin Lakes State Park

Stay, dine, and gear up in these mountain towns and scenic basecamps surrounding the park.

Burkeville, Virginia
⌖ 3.88 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Burkeville, Virginia

Burkeville, Virginia, is a quiet town that offers great outdoor adventures like hiking, paddling, and fishing along the Staunton River with nearby scenic state parks. It’s perfect for travelers seeking peaceful nature and low-traffic trails.

Spring through Fall
Explore Town
Green Bay, Virginia
⌖ 4.70 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Green Bay, Virginia

Green Bay, VA is a hidden gem for outdoor enthusiasts seeking peaceful trails, rich wildlife, and a chance to connect with nature. Ideal for hiking, biking, and relaxing escapes.

Spring and Fall
Explore Town
Rice, Virginia
⌖ 5.62 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Rice, Virginia

Rice, VA offers a peaceful escape for outdoor enthusiasts with hiking, fishing, and canoeing opportunities. The area is perfect for history buffs and nature lovers alike.

Spring and Fall
Explore Town
Crewe, Virginia
⌖ 8.28 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Crewe, Virginia

Crewe is a quiet Virginia town offering access to gentle hiking, paddling calm lakes, and cycling peaceful country roads. Ideal for travelers seeking a low-key outdoor escape in southern Virginia’s rural setting.

Spring through Fall
Explore Town
Farmville, Virginia
⌖ 10.01 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Farmville, Virginia

Farmville, Virginia offers peaceful paddling on the Appomattox River, bike-friendly rural roads, and easy hiking along the High Bridge Trail. It’s an ideal spot for visitors seeking quiet outdoor recreation combined with small-town charm.

Spring through Fall
Explore Town
Hampden Sydney, Virginia
⌖ 11.04 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Hampden Sydney, Virginia

Hampden Sydney, Virginia, offers quiet country adventures perfect for hiking, biking, and paddling. Its rural trails, state parks, and scenic High Bridge Trail provide peaceful outdoor experiences away from busier tourist areas.

Spring through Fall
Explore Town
Expert-Led Wilderness Expeditions

Guided Experiences in Twin Lakes State Park

Explore scenic backcountry routes and epic wilderness adventures with certified local mountain guides, naturalists, and outfitters.

Horse Camping
ADVEXPEDITION
Appomattox, Virginia
HorseADV Bookable

Horse Camping

Experience the true essence of outdoor living with horse camping at Holiday Ranch in Virginia. With scenic trails, excellent facilities, and a warm welcoming vibe, it’s an adventure you won’t forget.

HorseEscape, Explore, and Camp With Your HorseCertified Outfitter
From$53
Book Trip
Saddle Up and Learn With Confidence
ADVEXPEDITION
Appomattox, Virginia
HorseADV Bookable

Saddle Up and Learn With Confidence

A concise guide to Holiday Ranch LLC’s 30‑minute riding lessons in Appomattox — from basic safe pleasure rides to instruction that supports advancing your technique.

HorsePT2HCertified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip
Map & Compass Navigation
ADVEXPEDITION
Luray, Virginia
HikingADV Bookable

Map & Compass Navigation

Take your outdoor skills to the next level with a full-day Map & Compass Navigation course in Shenandoah National Park. Learn to read maps, use a compass, and navigate confidently through rugged terrain.

Hiking$175 • Ages 12+ • 7 Hours • Land navigation in the absence of technologyCertified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip
Rock Climbing
ADVEXPEDITION
Luray, Virginia
Guided TourADV Bookable

Rock Climbing

Discover the thrill of ascending Shenandoah’s sandstone cliffs, where every route offers adventure and scenic beauty. Perfect for all skill levels, this guide highlights why Shenandoah is a climbing paradise. Climb the rugged sandstone formations of Shenandoah National Park with expert-guided routes that suit beginners and seasoned pros alike. From classic scrambles on Old Rag to technical challenges on lesser-known crags, the park’s diverse terrain creates endless opportunities for adventure amid stunning mountain scenery. The park’s geology, featuring sandstone over 300 million years old, ensures quality holds and varied difficulty. Climbing here isn’t just a workout; it’s a chance to connect with nature in a rugged, inspiring setting. Whether you're seeking a full-day guided climb or a quick technical session, this outfitter makes the experience accessible and safe. Their guides are knowledgeable about the park’s routes and dedicated to sharing the art of climbing in a way that respects the environment. The proximity to cities like Washington, D.C., makes Shenandoah an ideal spot for a spontaneous outdoor escape. Get ready to conquer cliffs that have challenged climbers for generations. This trip combines outdoor adventure with the scenic splendor of Virginia’s mountains, creating a memorable experience that will have you planning your next ascent.

Guided Tour$175 • Ages 12+ • Approximately 7 Hours • Beginner through advanced guidingCertified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip