Blue skies, tinkling streams, and warm rays of sun filtering through the canopy … it’s a great time for a picnic in the Shenandoah Valley.
As you road trip your way along iconic Route 11, scenic byways and backroads, or high atop Skyline Drive, plan a stop or two for leg-stretching and belly-filling. You won’t be disappointed in our list of 12 beautiful, scenic spots for a picnic.
Humpback Bridge | Covington, VA
A fabulous treasure, the 1857 Humpback Bridge is one of only a few remaining covered bridges in the Commonwealth, and it’s one of the best places for a picnic, hands down. Five acres are available to you for roaming, photography, and yes, picnicking. Tables and restrooms are available. Do dip your toes into Dunlap Creek … or take a swim, if you want.
State Arboretum of Virginia | Boyce, VA
Acres and acres of gardens, trees, and simple beauty await at Blandy Experimental Farm, the State Arboretum of Virginia. So popular in spring and fall for the blooms and foliage, respectively, the park also has a picnic grove, of sorts. Located on Wilkins Lane Loop Drive, the parking area for picnicking is across from the Herb Garden and adjacent to the Parkfield Learning Center.
Peaks of Otter Picnic Area | MP 85.9 on the Blue Ridge Parkway in VA
Little Stony Creek is the highlight of this picnic hot spot on the Blue Ridge Parkway. Choose your favorite of 58 tables and set out your spread. Grills are available, as are restrooms.
Goshen Pass | Goshen, VA
Winding Route 39 from Lexington westward leads to a popular swimming hole and picnic area with a pavilion. Goshen Pass is known for its immense boulders, great for tanning or taking a break from a swim. In spring, Goshen Pass is known for its patches of rhododendron and mountain laurel. Fall brings a wash of orange to the gully.
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Ridgeview Park | Waynesboro, VA
Access to South River, a well-equipped playground, serenity garden, and picnic area make Ridgeview Park a fantastic option for a picnic. Source your food locally in downtown Waynesboro.
Montgomery Hall Park | Staunton, VA
Wooded trails are excellent for hiking after your picnic at Montgomery Hall Park. Kids will have plenty to do with a playground, and there is a disc golf course on site as well. It’s a nice reprieve near downtown Staunton.
Natural Chimneys Park and Campground | Mt. Solon, VA
Both a day use park and a campground, Natural Chimneys is a nice recreational hub and beautiful picnic spot. The chimneys themselves serve as a backdrop for many photos; gather your crew and set out for a memorable afternoon in nature.
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Capon Bridge Ruritan Park | Capon Bridge, WV
A picnic pavilion, a swimming hole with beach area, and great birding await at Capon Bridge Ruritan Park. The shaded destination is an easy one to while away an afternoon.
Natural Bridge State Park | Natural Bridge, VA
Pack your lunch down to the Cedar Creek Pavilion and enjoy the view of the 215’ limestone arch known as Natural Bridge. The pavilion offers seating and Cedar Creek itself streams alongside. Geese and other fowl are known to frequent the creek. Definitely bring a camera for this spot.
Pinnacles Picnic Grounds | Skyline Drive, VA
There are plenty of tables to go ‘round at Pinnacles. Bring your charcoal to grill, but be sure everything you bring with you leaves with you. There are restrooms, the views are great, and wildlife is plentiful. Plus, the Appalachian Trail traverses the park; step on and say you’ve been on the AT!
Wildwood Park | Bridgewater
Alongside North River is the shady Wildwood Park, complete with tables and grills. The kids will enjoy the playground or simply taking in the view. The swinging bridge is always an exciting find for families.
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Riverside Park | Elkton
The Shenandoah River is a popular place for fishing and tubing, so why not enjoy a bit of both along with a picnic at Riverside Park? The river is a beautiful view … a serene setting for relaxing with friends and family.
Let us hear from you about YOUR favorites. Did we include yours or do you have another we should consider? Pop into our DMs to let us know.
Header image: Humpback Bridge. Photo by Casey L. Higgins