Children's Discovery Area
At the parking area, there is a kiosk for the Discovery Area. This is a short, easy walk designed specifically for children.
Description
Located within Natural Bridge State Park, the walk begins with a short, easy climb on a mowed path. There is a big sign for the Children’s Discovery Area.
The main feature of the Discovery Area is a tall stately grove of hardwoods. In a clockwise direction, past the sign there is a small amphitheater and a large chalkboard. This is followed by a small shelter. The General Store is located on the left. The General Store is also home to a large, round wooden table. It is possible to still see the tree rings on this stump. There are some picnic tables past the General Store that lead back to the entrance to the area.
Natural Bridge State Park Activities
Families will love the Children's Discovery Area and Skyline Trail—a Kids in Park TRACK Trail.
Snap a selfie with the Virginia is for Lovers LOVEworks.
Did you know the park is an official International Dark Sky Park? Visitors may stargaze on Skyline Trail with a self-guided experience on Tuesday nights April–October. Special dark sky events lead by rangers or knowledgeable volunteers run March–December.
Interested in stargazing and learning about the night sky? Plan a visit during one of Natural Bridge State Park Dark Sky Night Programs.
Driving Directions
From the Lexington Visitor Center, drive east on Washington Street to a left at the stoplight onto East Nelson Street (US-60). Continue .2 mile to a right onto Lee Highway (US-11 S Bypass). Drive .9 mile to a left at the stoplight, continuing south on Lee Highway southbound. Stay on Lee Highway for 12 miles and Natural Bridge State Park entrance will be just ahead of you on the left with the Natural Bridge Historic Hotel & Conference Center on your right. Continue past the park and hotel on US-11 for 1.1 mile and turn left on Golf Course Road (CR 760). There is a sign for the Skyline Trail and the Children's Discovery Area at this intersection. Continue 0.5 miles and turn left at the entrance for the Skyline Trail Head and Blue Hollow Campground. Make an immediate left and proceed 150 feet to the parking area. There is a $5.00 fee for parking.
Insider's Tips
- The awe-inspiring Natural Bridge is a widely known wonder and makes for a fun and informative afternoon for all.
- The Natural Bridge area is chock full of family-friendly attractions including the Caverns at Natural Bridge, Dinosaur Kingdom II, Natural Bridge Zoo, and Virginia Safari Park.
- Grab a snack at Natty B's Café or if you’re headed back into Lexington, stop at Pink Cadillac Diner on Route 11 for an Elvis Burger or Foot Long in a ‘50s diner atmosphere.
- And for the parents, Great Valley Farm Brewery & Winery and Halcyon Days Cider Co. are kid and pet friendly!