Seven Bends State Park

Mary Miller

We went on rare cool July morning for a hike. We made a nice loop, about half of which was along the river. Lots of local history behind the land and its different purposes over the years. Can't wait to go back in the fall. There is a $5.00 fee but well worth it.

Allen Dunn

As the newest park in the Virginia state system, Seven Bends provides over 8 miles of hiking for all abilities along the north fork of the Shenandoah River and surrounding areas. There are two entrances to the park: Lupton and Hollingsworth; both involve narrow roads and tight turns and a single lane bridge. From my experience, the Lupton entrance is the way to go. Note that the roads from the two entrances do not connect inside the park. After parking just inside the entrance, me and my boys hopped on the very easy Gokotta trail that led us along the river about a mile north of the lot. From there we backtracked along Lupton road to the trailhead of the challenging River Bend Rise trail. Modest changes in elevation are sure to keep you working hard along that trail! You can either take the loop around at the end or continue on to the other half of the park; we opted for the former. There are multiple river access points and two dedicated boat launches. Note that this park, while still open, is still under development. The long term plan includes campsites, yurts, expanded trails, and scenic platforms. Can’t wait to see the finished product!

Zachary Hottel

If you arent at Seven Bends you are missing out. It is the best outdoor site in Woodstock. Seven Bends State Park contains river access, hiking, biking, barbecue sites, a picnic shelter, and many other great outdoor opportunities. Parking can be limited on holidays etc. when crowds come, but otherwise you should not have any barriers to a wonderful experience.

Anne Margaret White

Beautiful park to enjoy the North Fork of the Shenandoah River. The two locations are kind of confusing. The Hollingsworth entrance has a gravel entrance that crosses the river over a concrete causeway bridge that parallels a hanging bridge (not part of the park) and passes Muse winery. Boat launch, educational garden, and a short trail along the river are the main attractions. The Lupton entrance also crosses a concrete causeway and is a bigger park with more and longer trails, access for people to play in the river, a great "LOVE" sign, and another hanging bridge (this one in the park, but ends at private property). Really great complex all around!