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Virginia
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Virginia State Parks

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Virginia
Central Region
Appomattox Buckingham State Forest
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APPOMATTOX BUCKINGHAM STATE FOREST
APPOMATTOX BUCKINGHAM STATE FOREST
The 19,535 acre Appomattox-Buckingham State Forest, located in the piedmont of Virginia, is 40 miles east of Lynchburg, 60 miles south of Charlottesville, and 20 miles north of Farmville. Recreational opportunities at the park include hiking, canoeing, camping, horseback riding, and fishing to name just a few.
History of the Area
1. Early Settlement: The area that is now Appomattox Buckingham State Forest was initially settled by European colonists in the early 1800s. The land was primarily used for agriculture, including tobacco and other crops.

2. Civil War: The forest is located near the Appomattox Court House, which is famous for being the site of General Robert E. Lee's surrender to General Ulysses S. Grant, effectively ending the American Civil War on April 9, 1865. The surrounding area witnessed several clashes and skirmishes during the war.

3. Industrialization: In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, the region experienced increased industrialization. Lumber mills and mines were established in the area, exploiting the natural resources of the forest.

4. Establishment of Forest Reserve: In the 1930s, the Virginia State Conservation Commission recognized the need for reforestation efforts to combat soil erosion and protect the water quality of the Appomattox River. With this in mind, the state began acquiring land, including the area now known as Appomattox Buckingham State Forest.

5. Development and Expansion: Over the years, the state forest has expanded through additional land acquisitions and modern forest-management practices. Today, it encompasses about 19,000 acres of diverse forest ecosystems.

6. Conservation Efforts: The forest management practices focus on sustainable timber harvesting, wildlife habitat conservation, and recreational opportunities for visitors. Some areas of the forest have been designated for specific uses such as hunting, camping, and hiking.

7. Wildlife and Recreation: Appomattox Buckingham State Forest is home to various wildlife species, including whitetail deer, wild turkey, squirrel, rabbit, and a variety of bird species. The forest offers opportunities for outdoor activities like hiking, hunting, fishing, and birdwatching.
Nearby Vacation Rentals
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Fishing
Fishing regulations at Holliday Creek: Only artificial lures with single hook may be used in these waters between October 1st and May 31st. During this time all trout must be immediately released unharmed. General statewide fishing regulations apply between June 1st and September 30th.



Picnicking
Two shelters available on the forest. They are located at:

* Woolridge Wayside on the west end of Route 640. * Lee Wayside on Richmond Forest Road.

Permanent structures are set up with Holliday Lake State Park.

Scheduling:

Virginia Department of ForestryAppomattox-Buckingham State Forest1685 Francisco RoadDillwyn, Virginia 23936434.983.2175

Holliday Lake State ParkRoute 2 Box 622Appomattox, Virginia 24522434.248.6308
Trails
There is one primary trail at Appomattox-Buckingham State Forest that is open for walking, hiking, horses, and mountain bikes. All motorized vehicles are prohibited on state forest lands. Trails are marked by blue blazes painted on trees approximately every 150-200 yards. The forest also has various gated trails and forest roads that can be used.

Carter Taylor Trail - Wildlife abounds in the ever-changing oak-hickory and pine forest. Deer, turkey, and even black bear make their homes in these woods.

Travelers hike through harvested areas that have either been replanted or protected so that nature is allowed to take its course.

* Foot travel, non-motorized bikes, and horses are permitted.

Visitor Comments, Memories and Reviews
October 24 Still my favorite place in VA by Eric F Uhl III
park review stars; one to five
October 26 Excellent deer hunting by ERICFUHLIII
park review stars; one to five absolutely breathtaking diversity of open AND forested state park. well managed aged cuts and re growths. the best I have ever seen
write a review
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Area Campgrounds
Paradise Lake Family Campground
1105 West Lake Road
Spout Spring, VA
434-993-3332
Area Cabins and Lodges
Fin & Feather Resort
Route 746
Buckingham, VA
(434) 969-5558

Directions
1. Start on US:460 E towards Lynchburg, Virginia.
2. Take the exit toward VA:24 W/Appomattox from US-460 E.
3. Turn right onto State Rte 635/Oakleigh Ave after exiting.
4. Continue straight to stay on Oakleigh Avenue for about a mile and half until you reach Court St/State Route 1310.
5. Make a left turn at this junction onto Court Street or SR 1310.
6. Turn right into Church street which later becomes Old Courthouse Road as it leaves Appomattox town center area.
7. Continue driving along Old Courthouse road till you see signs indicating entrance of Appomattox Buckingham state forest.

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Virginia State Parks

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