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Nature|Beaches, Lakes & Rivers

A Sapphire Body Of Water In Virginia, Carvins Cove Is Devastatingly Gorgeous

Carvins Cove in Virginia offers stunning sapphire blue waters and a variety of outdoor activities, making it a must-visit natural gem.

Updated Oct 6, 2020

Written by 

Beth Copenhaver

Virginia is full of hidden natural gems, whether they be forested trails, cascading waterfalls, or unique rock formations. As Spring quickly approaches, we can't help but look forward to warm weather and the excuse to explore. The first item on your list should be none other than the sapphire blue water awaiting at Carvins Cove in Virginia. Here's more on this beautiful reservoir just a quick drive from Roanoke.

The exquisite mountain lake known as Carvins Cove in Virginia is part of a Natural Reserve tucked away in Roanoke County.

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Lindley Ashline/flickr

This recreational lake is absolutely breathtaking. Depending on the time of day, its waters shimmer in hues of sapphire, teal, and deep blue.

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Lindley Ashline/flickr

Carvins Cove Reservoir is named for the small community that was displaced in the creation of this natural reserve in the 1930s. In fact, during times of drought, remnants of this town can be seen.

In addition to marveling at the gorgeous scenery, visitors can choose from a range of activities available.

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Lindley Ashline/flickr

When the weather warms up, gliding along the blue water in a kayak will bring out your adventurous spirit.

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carobe/flickr

Kayaks can be rented for just a small fee, complete with all the equipment you need.

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Paul M./TripAdvisor

Carvins Cove is also a popular spot for fishing, either from a boat or directly off the pier.

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Gilad A./TripAdvisor

For a unique perspective of the cove, nearby hiking trails are a must.

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John Hayes/flickr

This magnificent view of Carvins Cove was taken from Tinker Cliffs, a segment of the Appalachian Trail.

Whether you’re looking for something challenging or a leisurely stroll, there are plenty of treks to choose from.

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Rich S./Yelp

Photographed above is the entrance to the nearby Happy Valley Trail.

No matter how you choose to spend your time at Carvins Cove in Virginia, chances are you'll be planning another trip back to this slice of paradise.

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Lindley Ashline/flickr

Carvins Cove is located at 9644 Reservoir Rd., Roanoke VA 24019.

Have you visited Carvins Cove in Virginia recently? Feel free to share your experiences there or at any other natural wonders in Virginia. For more hidden natural gems, be sure to read about This Little-Known Oasis Hiding In Virginia.

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Nature|Beaches, Lakes & Rivers

There’s A Gorge In Virginia That Looks Just Like The New River Gorge, But Hardly Anyone Knows It Exists

Breaks Interstate Park in Virginia, known as the Grand Canyon of the South, offers stunning geological formations and abundant wildlife.

Updated Aug 11, 2024

Written by 

Beth Copenhaver

The New River Gorge is one of the most iconic wonders on the East Coast, located in the Appalachian Mountains of West Virginia. Yet you don’t have to cross state lines to experience a natural wonder in Virginia that’s equally striking. In our opinion, Breaks Interstate Park in Dickenson County, looks a lot like the New River Gorge, and if you’ve never visited, it’s high time you planned a trip. So, come with us to see one of the most unique gorges in Virginia that will literally blow your mind.

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Millions of years ago, upon the formation of the Appalachian Mountains, a wave of earth and rock was created. Today, at the westernmost point of these ancient formations, you'll find Breaks Interstate Park.

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Breaks Interstate Park / Facebook

Nothing short of a natural wonder and a geological phenomenon, this region of Virginia is an outdoor enthusiast's dream. The 1,000-foot gorge, nicknamed the Grand Canyon of the South, is the result of the Russell Fork River.

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Breaks Interstate Park / Facebook

The giant sandstone cliffs, known as the Towers, ascend above the canyon, creating a stunning visual effect. Even photos, as beautiful as they are, can't quite do justice to the view!

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Breaks Interstate Park / Facebook

If it's your first time visiting the Breaks, be sure to check out Breaks Overlook, an iconic view of the landscape. It's especially stunning when the fog rolls in.

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Breaks Interstate Park / Facebook

Overlooks Trail is another gorgeous view of the park. Just look at those stunning colors!

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Breaks Park

And while Breaks Interstate Park is famous for its canyon, the abundance of wildlife here is equally as mesmerizing.

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Breaks Interstate Park / Facebook

During certain times of the year, visitors are invited to see Virginia's Elk Restoration Zone.

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Have you ever visited Breaks Interstate Park? What was your experience at this look-a-like gorge in Virginia? Feel free to share your adventures with us in the comments below -- we'd love to hear from you! For more unique destinations to visit, be sure to check out our list of natural wonders in Virginia.

https://www.onlyinyourstate.com/virginia/natural-wonder-va/

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Nature|Beaches, Lakes & Rivers

A Bit Of An Unexpected Natural Wonder, Few People Know There Are Sand Dunes Hiding In Virginia

Savage Neck Dunes Natural Area Preserve in Virginia offers a stunning and unexpected landscape with tall sand dunes and diverse wildlife.

Updated Aug 9, 2024

Written by 

Beth Copenhaver

When you think of sand dunes, you likely picture New Mexico's White Sand Dunes National Park, or perhaps the Great Sand Dunes National Park & Preserve in Colorado. You may not have realized that Virginia also has a collection of sand dunes, and it's just as spectacular. To view this wild, rugged, and somewhat unexpected landscape, head to Savage Neck Dunes Natural Area Preserve in Cape Charles. Prepare to be amazed by the untouched beauty of some of the coolest natural wonders in Virginia!

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Virginia's most visited beaches are popular for a reason: they're easy to access, offer amenities such as restaurants and boardwalks, and often have the buzz of crowds.

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Len Richardson / Google

Yet there's something special about the quieter, off-the-beaten-path beaches, and today's feature destination certainly qualifies.

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Patrick Kerr / Google

Savage Neck Dunes Natural Area Preserve is comprised of 298 acres along the Chesapeake Bay in Northampton County.

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Patrick Kerr / Google

The dunes are among the tallest natural points on Virginia's Eastern Shore!

It's a stunning gem of a beach on Virginia's Eastern Shore, made all the more spectacular by the presence of 50-foot sand dunes for which the area is named.

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Len Richardson / Google

The preserve, which is maintained by the Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation, is open to the public, yet it's absolutely vital to respect both nature and wildlife here.

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Stephen Linenfelser / Google

As you can imagine, the beach, dunes, and maritime forest make up an important habitat for countless plants and wildlife, including tiger beetles and migratory songbirds.

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Visitors will find a small public parking lot as well as three hiking trails for safely exploring the area.

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Bill Dyas / Google

If you do plan to visit, be sure to leave only footprints in the sand!

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Bill Dyas / Google

Did you know about this unexpected wonder hiding in Virginia? Have you visited Savage Neck Dunes Natural Area in Cape Charles? Feel free to share your thoughts with us in the comments below -- we'd love to hear from you! For related content, check out our natural wonders road trip through Virginia. And be sure to take a look at our road trip essentials!

Love all things Virginia? Check out this amazing footage of Shenandoah National Park:

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