Arrowhead Park photo
ParkVirginia, US

Arrowhead Park

Arrowhead Park, nestled near the charming town of Luray, Virginia, offers a tranquil escape into the heart of the Shenandoah Valley.

About

Arrowhead Park, nestled near the charming town of Luray, Virginia, offers a tranquil escape into the heart of the Shenandoah Valley. This 134-acre recreation area centers around the picturesque 39-acre Lake Arrowhead, providing a serene backdrop of the Blue Ridge Mountains and breathtaking views across the Page Valley. It's a cherished spot where natural beauty meets outdoor recreation, making it an ideal destination for those seeking peace and active enjoyment amidst stunning scenery.

The park boasts a variety of habitats, from the clear waters of Lake Arrowhead to its surrounding woodlands, supporting a rich diversity of flora and fauna. Visitors can explore over two miles of marked trails, including a popular 1-mile loop around the lake, perfect for observing local wildlife. Keep an eye out for White-tailed Deer gracefully moving through the trees, Eastern Gray Squirrels darting amongst the red maples and white oaks, or the vibrant flash of a Northern Cardinal. The lake itself is teeming with fish like largemouth bass, bluegill, and crappie, and provides a home for Common Watersnakes, Green Frogs, and Canada Geese.

Whether you're casting a line, paddling across the calm waters, or simply enjoying a picnic with a view, Arrowhead Park promises a memorable experience. Its blend of recreational activities and natural splendor, coupled with its welcoming atmosphere, makes it a perfect destination for families, nature photographers, and anyone looking to reconnect with the outdoors. The park's easy access to the Shenandoah National Park also positions it as a convenient and rewarding stop on any regional itinerary. Take the ultimate field guide with you: use the Snappit app to identify birds, plants, and animals on your trip.

Lake Arrowhead was constructed in 1971 by the USDA Soil Conservation Service, primarily serving as a flood control impoundment. The park and its 39-acre lake are owned by the Town of Luray, with the Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources managing the lake's fishery. Over the years, the Town of Luray has made efforts to manage aquatic vegetation in the lake and ensure its continued health and accessibility for recreational use.

What to do here

A ballfield, volleyball nets, and horseshoe pits are available for visitor use.

What to do/see:

Fishing: Cast a line for largemouth bass, northern pike, bluegill, crappie, redear sunfish, and channel catfish. A Virginia Freshwater Fishing License and a Town of Luray Fishing Permit are required. Midnight Catfishing is offered on select Fridays from April to October.

Hiking: Walk the easy 1-mile nature trail around Lake Arrowhead, observing native plants like red maple, white oak, and American sweetgum, and spotting birds such as House Sparrows, Mourning Doves, and American Robins.

Paddling: Bring your own canoe, kayak, or stand-up paddleboard, or rent one seasonally to explore the lake. Electric trolling motors are welcome, but gasoline motors are prohibited.

Swimming: Enjoy the white sand beach area during the summer season, typically open from Memorial Day weekend.

Wildlife Viewing: Look for White-tailed Deer, Eastern Gray Squirrels, Red Foxes, Eastern Cottontails, and various bird species. Keep an eye out for Common Box Turtles and American Toads.

Seasonal notes:

Spring: Wildflowers like Virginia Springbeauty and yellow trout lily bloom. Migratory birds return.

Summer: The swimming beach is open, and canoe/kayak rentals are available. Peak season for Green Frogs and Common Watersnakes.

Fall: Witness vibrant fall foliage, especially from the red maple and white oak trees. Cooler weather is ideal for hiking. Nearby events like the Page County Heritage Festival in Luray can be enjoyed.

Winter: Bare trees offer better visibility for spotting wildlife. The park can be blanketed in snow and ice, offering a different kind of beauty.

Accessibility features:

The park features handicap-accessible restrooms. While the nature trail is primarily crushed gravel, it is generally considered easy, though some sections may have uneven terrain and exposed tree roots. Picnic shelters are also available.

Wildlife you might spot

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Good to know before you go

Arrive Early for Popular Activities

On weekends or during peak seasons, consider arriving earlier in the day to secure picnic shelters or good fishing spots.

Bring Appropriate Permits

If you plan to fish or boat, ensure you have your Virginia Freshwater Fishing License and Town of Luray permits ready before you arrive.

Pack a Picnic

Take advantage of the numerous picnic shelters and grills available for a relaxing meal outdoors.

Protect Wildlife

Please do not feed bread to ducks and geese, as it can be harmful to them.

Wear Comfortable Shoes

The nature trail is a great way to experience the park, but some sections may be uneven, so suitable footwear is recommended.

Check Seasonal Offerings

If planning to swim or rent kayaks/canoes, confirm seasonal availability and operating hours before your visit.

Frequently asked questions

Yes, leashed dogs are permitted in Arrowhead Park. However, they are not allowed on the swimming beach area.
Yes, a valid Virginia Freshwater Fishing License and a Town of Luray Fishing Permit are required for fishing. A Town of Luray Boating Permit is also needed for all boats on Lake Arrowhead. These permits can be obtained from the Town of Luray Office, Visitors Center, or Fairview Grocery.
Lake Arrowhead Park operates seasonally. From March 1 to October 31, the park is open from 6 am to 9 pm. During the winter months, from November 1 to February 28, the hours are 6 am to 7 pm.

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