Fairy Stone State Park’s swimming beach is open daily for the remainder of the summer, after closing in early July.
The swimming area of Fairy Stone Lake, which includes a sandy beach, bathhouse and lifeguards, reopened July 13 at 10 a.m. The area was closed July 8-12 after an unacceptable bacteria level was found during a routine water test. A subsequent test determined that the swimming area water was back to normal.
“We’re pleased there’s no longer any issue associated with the swimming area,” said Park Manager John Grooms. “Thousands of people enjoy the beach each summer, including the children’s Beaver Pond play area, and we just want the public to know that we’re open with a clean bill of health.”
Just minutes from the Blue Ridge Parkway and home of the legendary fairy stones, the park is well known for its 168-acre lake adjoining Philpott Reservoir. Other attractions include cabins, a campground, group camping, an equestrian campground, a conference center, hiking trails, rowboats, canoes, paddle boats, kayaks, picnicking and two playgrounds, including one in the water.
Virginia State Parks are managed by the Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation. For more information about Virginia State Parks activities and amenities or to make a reservation for one of the more than 1,800 campsites or 300 cabins, call the Customer Service Center at (800) 933-7275 or visit www.virginiastateparks.gov.
