Natural Chimneys - Upper Valley Regional Park Authority

One of Virginia's premier natural attractions

Natural Chimneys is open to the public year round, with the exception of certain holidays. Camping and most facilities and recreational opportunities at the park are only available from March 1st – October 31st.

Camping, picnicking, hiking, and swimming are major activities to be enjoyed while viewing these geologic wonders.

It's hard to imagine, but the Shenandoah Valley was once the floor of a great inland sea. Centuries ago, as that sea receded, the forces of Nature carefully etched out an awe-inspiring formation of solid rock. The seven Natural Chimneys tower as much as 120 feet above the pastoral terrain of the Shenandoah Valley, offering onlookers a sight unrivaled in majesty.

Viewed from one angle, the formations resemble enormous chimneys standing in bleak contrast to the greenery of the Valley. Take a few steps, though, and chimneys are transformed into the massive turrets of a foreboding medieval castle. But Natural Chimneys Regional Park and Campground offers more than simply the splendor of towering limestone formations. Both day and overnight visitors find plenty of room for relaxation and opportunities for recreational activities at this pleasant vacation spot.

Swimming

There is an olympic-sized pool at Natural Chimneys. Pools are open from Memorial Day Weekend until Labor Day each year. Natural Chimneys pool is open to the general public and is provided to campers at a discounted fee. Day visitors pay a fee to swim. Season passes are available.

Camping

Natural Chimneys has a 145 site family-oriented campground with water and electricity. There are a limited number of sewer sites, and a separate section for tent campers. Bathhouses feature hot showers, and there is a laundry on-site. There are two playground areas and over 2 miles of hiking trails. The Visitor Center includes a campstore, the National Jousting Hall of Fame, and the park offices. Many discounts are available for local residents, groups, weekday camping, and more.

Picnicking

There are four (4) picnic shelters available at Natural Chimneys, and several freestanding picnic tables available for general use. While there is no charge to use a picnic shelter when it is available, there are fees to reserve shelters. If a shelter is reserved, it is not available for general use. Picnickers are cautioned that shelter reservations take priority, and reservations are not listed in the picnic area. Each Shelter has a water fountain closely associated, and have permanent grills available for the public's use. Most shelters also have electricity and lights. Shelter #3 at Natural Chimneys also has a massive stone fireplace.

Hiking/Biking

Natural Chimneys has over 2.5 miles of combined hiking and biking trails. Approximately one (1) mile is level and is considered applicable for both walking and biking. This trail meanders along the borders of the park. The park has a river associated with its borders, giving the hiker a cool and refreshing walk beside calm waters. The remainder of the trails are on hills, and are of medium difficulty. There are overlooks giving a peek back down into the valley below. Numerous wild flowers and wildlife is observable while using either trail. It is not uncommon to see a chipmunk or grey squirrel busy about the task of finding food. Both white tail deer and the occasional black bear have been sighted on the park.

Special Events

Jousting -Older than the Kentucky Derby, older than baseball--born in the Middle Ages and nursed by chivalry--that's the story of jousting, a test of horsemanship, balance and marksmanship. To the command, "Charge, Sir Knight!", renewal of America's oldest consecutively run sporting event takes place the 3rd Saturday in August each year at Natural Chimneys, Mt. Solon, Virginia, in a revival of medieval pageantry. Click here for more information

Field Trips

School field trips to Natural Chimneys usually focus on the geological history of the Shenandoah Valley, once a great inland sea. Viewed from one angle, the formations resemble enormous chimneys standing in bleak contrast to the greenery of the Valley. Take a few steps, though, and chimneys are transformed into the massive turrets of a foreboding medieval castle. Come explore the geology and beauty of one of Virginia's natural wonders. The park provides a quiet setting for a picnic lunch, and there are 2.4 miles of trails for additional ecology training and exploring prior to returning to school. A park ranger is available to meet with your group to provide an overview of the geology and to answer questions. The park is located at Mt. Solon, VA, minutes from either Staunton or Harrisonburg, and is located conveniently off I-81 at Exit 240. Call 1-888-430-CAMP (2267) for information or to set up a visit. A small per-person fee is charged.

Call 1-888-430-CAMP (2267) for information.