Virginia Outdoor Adventures: Hiking, Camping, Kayaking, Local Travel and more!

Nestled between the Potomac and Rappahannock Rivers, King George County is a destination that offers adventure on land and water.

Our guests, Jenna and Warren Veazey, members of the Friends of Dahlgren Railroad Heritage Trail and the Friends of Caledon State Park, lead us on an exploration of this Northern Neck community’s hidden gems. 

Hike, run, or cycle the Dahlgren Railroad Heritage Trail, a converted railway where you’ll find everything from smooth, accessible pathways to more rugged terrain. Along the Dahlgren Trail, you’ll discover “Poetry on the Trail,” featuring works by Virginia poets paired with nature facts, inviting trail users to connect with the landscape.

We’ll also explore Caledon State Park, known for its old growth forests and abundance of Bald Eagles. Caledon offers primitive riverside camping, guided kayak programs, and wildlife viewing.

King George provides multiple river access points for kayaking, fishing, boating, and more. And when the adventure winds down, you’ll find waterfront dining and local breweries and wineries serving up the best of the region.

Jenna and Warren help you plan the perfect King George weekend getaway full of natural beauty and unforgettable Potomac River sunsets.

Find it all between the rivers in this Virginia Adventure Town. Let’s Go!

This is Part 2 of a two-part episode.

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Shop the Virginia Outdoor Adventures Merch Store!

VAOA Podcast is Sponsored by:

Virginia Association for Parks

Breaks Interstate Park

Virginia State Parks

Heart of Appalachia 

Mentioned in this Episode:

Visit King George

48-Hours of Unforgettable Outdoor Adventure in King George (Links to restaurants and lodging listed here)

Dahlgren Railroad Heritage Trail

Friends of Caledon State Park

Caledon State Park

Caledon Art & Wine Festival

Poetry on the Trail

Caledon Art & Wine Festival

Gardening Gays

Events in King George

Fan Mail - Send Jessica a Text Message

Contact Show Host, Jessica Bowser:

[email protected]

Nestled between the Potomac and Rappahannock Rivers, King George County is a destination that offers adventure on land and water.

Our guests, Jenna and Warren Veazey, members of the Friends of Dahlgren Railroad Heritage Trail and the Friends of Caledon State Park, lead us on an exploration of this Northern Neck community’s hidden gems. 

Hike, run, or cycle the Dahlgren Railroad Heritage Trail, a converted railway where you’ll find everything from smooth, accessible pathways to more rugged terrain. Along the Dahlgren Trail, you’ll discover “Poetry on the Trail,” featuring works by Virginia poets paired with nature facts, inviting trail users to connect with the landscape.

We’ll also explore Caledon State Park, known for its old growth forests and abundance of Bald Eagles. Caledon offers primitive riverside camping, guided kayak programs, and wildlife viewing.

King George provides multiple river access points for kayaking, fishing, boating, and more. And when the adventure winds down, you’ll find waterfront dining and local breweries and wineries serving up the best of the region.

Jenna and Warren help you plan the perfect King George weekend getaway full of natural beauty and unforgettable Potomac River sunsets.

Find it all between the rivers in this Virginia Adventure Town. Let’s Go!

Follow VAOA Podcast:

Instagram I Facebook I Newsletter Sign Up
Support the Show! Buy Me A Coffee

Shop the Virginia Outdoor Adventures Merch Store!

VAOA Podcast is Sponsored by:

Virginia Association for Parks

Breaks Interstate Park

Virginia State Parks

Heart of Appalachia 

Mentioned in this Episode:

Visit King George

48-Hours of Unforgettable Outdoor Adventure in King George

Dahlgren Railroad Heritage Trail

Friends of Caledon State Park

Caledon State Park

Caledon Art & Wine Festival

Poetry on the Trail

Episode 26. Elizabeth River Trail

Dahlgren Trail Maps and Access

Potomac and Rappahannock Rivers Access

Episode 59. Wandering Waters Paddle Quest

NAVSEA Dahlgren Test Range

Events in King George

Fan Mail - Send Jessica a Text Message

Contact Show Host, Jessica Bowser:

[email protected]

Big news, Adventurers - Virginia Outdoor Adventures is back with a brand new season! That means more inspiring stories, hidden gems, travel-ready resources, and new adventures across our Commonwealth.

In this Season 6 Trailer, get a sneak peek at new content inspired by you, as well as a chance to shape future episodes with your feedback. 

Be the first to hear about new features designed to keep you inspired and in the know about all things Virginia outdoors, and upcoming events where you can meet me in-person. 

The wait is over – Season 6 has arrived and it’s time for new adventures. Let’s Go!

Follow VAOA Podcast:

Instagram I Facebook I Newsletter Sign Up
Support the Show! Buy Me A Coffee

Shop the Virginia Outdoor Adventures Merch Store!

VAOA Podcast is Sponsored by:

Virginia Association for Parks

Breaks Interstate Park

Virginia State Parks

Heart of Appalachia 

Advertisers:

Visit Martinsville

Ep 75 Virginia’s Adventure Towns: Martinsville – Blueways, Trails, Camping and more in the Foothills of the Blue Ridge

Mentioned in this episode:

Take the Listener Survey

Ep 76 Primitive Camping and Backpacking in Virginia State Parks

Ep 41 Stargazing in Virginia’s Dark Sky Parks

Ep 59 Wandering Waters Paddle Quest with Sammy Zambon, Virginia State Parks

Ep 67 Conquering Resolutions: Setting Outdoor Goals and Challenges for the New Year with Alejandra Villanueva, Girls Who Hike Virginia

Ep 42 A Glimpse into the Wonderful World of Virginia’s Wildlife

Ep 43 Virginia’s Lost Appalachian Trail with Mills Kelly

Ep 22 Hiking McAfee Knob and Virginia’s Triple Crown with Diana Christopulos, Roanoke Appalachian Trail Club

Ep 13 Endless Outdoor Rec Opportunities on Shenandoah Mountain

Ep 66 Parks Advocacy Day: Be a Champion for Our State Parks

Fan Mail - Send Jessica a Text Message

Contact Show Host, Jessica Bowser:

[email protected]

After 10,000 miles crisscrossing Virginia, 17 full episodes, and 4 bonus features, Season Five of Virginia Outdoor Adventures has been a remarkable journey of discovery and connection. What began as a pandemic project has evolved into a five-season exploration of the Commonwealth's most breathtaking outdoor destinations, hidden gems, and adventure opportunities.

This season marked several firsts, including five solo episodes covering practical topics like packing checklists and seasonal bucket lists. The Virginia Adventure Town series continued to captivate listeners with comprehensive guides to Onancock, Big Stone Gap, and Martinsville – destinations where tourism dollars make a meaningful impact on small communities. Educational episodes on wilderness survival, snake identification, and secondhand gear shopping provided valuable knowledge for outdoor enthusiasts, while special features on forest bathing and wild caving introduced listeners to unique outdoor experiences.

Your feedback has shaped this podcast from the beginning, guiding content creation and helping it grow beyond what I ever imagined possible. I'd love to hear your thoughts on what outdoor adventures you want to explore in Season Six.

Share your feedback through the listener survey in the show notes for a chance to win a $50 gift card to River Rock Outfitter. Subscribe to the newsletter for exclusive updates and discounts, or consider supporting the show through Buy Me A Coffee. Your contributions directly fund the thousands of miles traveled to bring Virginia's outdoor wonders to your ears. 

Adventure on, Friends – I'll see you in the fall!

Follow VAOA Podcast:

Instagram I Facebook I Newsletter Sign Up
Support the Show! Buy Me A Coffee

Shop the Virginia Outdoor Adventures Merch Store!

VAOA Podcast is Sponsored by:

Virginia Association for Parks

Breaks Interstate Park

Virginia State Parks

Heart of Appalachia 

Advertisers:

Visit Grayson County

Virginia State Parks Interpretive Programs

Mentioned in this episode:

Take the Listener Survey

Fan Mail - Send Jessica a Text Message

Contact Show Host, Jessica Bowser:

[email protected]

If you’ve ever dreamed of backpacking through the wild but felt unsure about jumping straight into the backcountry, primitive camping in Virginia State Parks might be your perfect middle ground. 

Ranger Amelia Hulth from Powhatan State Park describes how these minimalist campsites offer just enough amenities to keep things comfortable while giving you a true taste of the wild. 

We review each primitive campground, including distance to hike in, terrain, difficulty level, and amenities. From Belle Isle’s easy 1.5-mile hike to scenic riverfront sites to the rugged 8-mile trek to False Cape that rewards you with remote beachside solitude, there’s something for every skill level and sense of adventure. 

Whether you’re a beginner looking to build backpacking skills or a seasoned camper craving a quieter connection with nature, Virginia State Parks’ primitive camping experience is your gateway to a wilder Virginia. Let’s Go!

Follow VAOA Podcast:

Instagram I Facebook I Newsletter Sign Up
Support the Show! Buy Me A Coffee

Shop the Virginia Outdoor Adventures Merch Store!

VAOA Podcast is Sponsored by:

Virginia Association for Parks

Breaks Interstate Park

Virginia State Parks

Heart of Appalachia 

Advertisers:

Visit Grayson County

Virginia State Parks Interpretive Programs

Mentioned in this Episode:

Connect with Ranger Amelia Hulth: 

Email [email protected] I Powhatan State Park

Virginia State Parks Primitive Campgrounds

Let's Go Adventures - Backpacking (Camping) Schedule

Episode 56 - Let's Go Adventures

Fan Mail - Send Jessica a Text Message

Contact Show Host, Jessica Bowser:

[email protected]

If you’ve ever dreamed of backpacking through the wild but felt unsure about jumping straight into the backcountry, primitive camping in Virginia State Parks might be your perfect middle ground. 

Ranger Amelia Hulth from Powhatan State Park describes how these minimalist campsites offer just enough amenities to keep things comfortable while giving you a true taste of the wild. 

We review each primitive campground, including distance to hike in, terrain, difficulty level, and amenities. From Belle Isle’s easy 1.5-mile hike to scenic riverfront sites to the rugged 8-mile trek to False Cape that rewards you with remote beachside solitude, there’s something for every skill level and sense of adventure. 

Whether you’re a beginner looking to build backpacking skills or a seasoned camper craving a quieter connection with nature, Virginia State Parks’ primitive camping experience is your gateway to a wilder Virginia. Let’s Go!

Follow VAOA Podcast:

Instagram I Facebook I Newsletter Sign Up
Support the Show! Buy Me A Coffee

Shop the Virginia Outdoor Adventures Merch Store!

VAOA Podcast is Sponsored by:

Virginia Association for Parks

Breaks Interstate Park

Virginia State Parks

Heart of Appalachia 

Advertisers:

Visit Grayson County

Virginia State Parks Interpretive Programs

Mentioned in this Episode:

Connect with Ranger Amelia Hulth: 

Email [email protected] I Powhatan State Park

Virginia State Parks Primitive Campgrounds

Let's Go Adventures - Backpacking (Camping) Schedule

Episode 56 - Let's Go Adventures

Fan Mail - Send Jessica a Text Message

Contact Show Host, Jessica Bowser:

[email protected]

Tucked into the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Martinsville reveals itself as an unexpected paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. Anna Wheeler and Brian Williams from the Dan River Basin Association share their intimate knowledge of this small city with its outsized adventure potential.

The Smith River Blueway provides 45 miles of accessible paddling and world-class trout fishing on the crown jewel of Martinsville. Just beyond city limits, Philpott Lake offers 25 miles of undeveloped shoreline with camping, paddling, and hiking opportunities.

Bring your bike or borrow one for free and ride the Smith River Trail System, a network of local trails, including the 11-mile paved Dick & Willie Passage Trail, that serves as both recreation corridor and community connector.

Anna and Brian also highlight local museums, culinary gems, and fascinating history to add to your must-do Martinsville bucket list. Let’s Go!

This is Part 2 of a two-part episode.

Follow VAOA Podcast:

Instagram I Facebook I Newsletter Sign Up
Support the Show! Buy Me A Coffee

Shop the Virginia Outdoor Adventures Merch Store!

VAOA Podcast is Sponsored by:

Visit Martinsville Henry County

Virginia Association for Parks

Breaks Interstate Park

Virginia State Parks

Heart of Appalachia 

Mentioned in this Episode:

Visit Martinsville Henry County

Connect with Anna Wheeler and Brian Williams:

Dan River Basin Association I Facebook I Instagram

Smith River Blueway

Smith River Outfitters

Philpott Lake

Smith River Trail System

Dick and Willie Passage Rail Trail

YMCA Bike Barn

Beaver Creek Reservoir

Smith River Sports Complex

Mayo River State Park

Food & Drink

Museums, Arts, & Cultural

Things to Do in Martinsville

Lodging

Upcoming Events

Fan Mail - Send Jessica a Text Message

Contact Show Host, Jessica Bowser:

[email protected]

Tucked into the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Martinsville reveals itself as an unexpected paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. Anna Wheeler and Brian Williams from the Dan River Basin Association share their intimate knowledge of this small city with its outsized adventure potential.

The Smith River Blueway provides 45 miles of accessible paddling and world-class trout fishing on the crown jewel of Martinsville. Just beyond city limits, Philpott Lake offers 25 miles of undeveloped shoreline with camping, paddling, and hiking opportunities.

Bring your bike or borrow one for free and ride the Smith River Trail System, a network of local trails, including the 11-mile paved Dick & Willie Passage Trail, that serves as both recreation corridor and community connector.

Anna and Brian also highlight local museums, culinary gems, and fascinating history to add to your must-do Martinsville bucket list. Let’s Go!

Join us next week as we dive into Martinsville’s local attractions, including museums, culinary gems, and one of the newest state parks that is open and welcoming visitors. 

Follow VAOA Podcast:

Instagram I Facebook I Newsletter Sign Up
Support the Show! Buy Me A Coffee

Shop the Virginia Outdoor Adventures Merch Store!

VAOA Podcast is Sponsored by:

Visit Martinsville Henry County

Virginia Association for Parks

Breaks Interstate Park

Virginia State Parks

Heart of Appalachia 

Mentioned in this Episode:

Visit Martinsville Henry County

Connect with Anna Wheeler and Brian Williams:

Dan River Basin Association I Facebook I Instagram

Smith River Blueway

Smith River Outfitters

Philpott Lake

Smith River Trail System

Dick and Willie Passage Rail Trail

YMCA Bike Barn

Beaver Creek Reservoir

Smith River Sports Complex

Mayo River State Park

Food & Drink

Museums, Arts, & Cultural

Things to Do in Martinsville

Lodging

Fan Mail - Send Jessica a Text Message

Contact Show Host, Jessica Bowser:

[email protected]

Descend with us into Virginia's spectacular underworld as we explore the hidden realm of wild caves. Unlike commercial show caves, wild caves offer an authentic adventure where nature remains largely untouched. 

Virginia State Parks’ ranger-led caving programs provide the perfect gateway into this mysterious environment. Ranger Erin Pitts from New River Trail State Park shares insights about cave ecosystems, rare species, and the delicate formations found in these subterranean environments. 

Whether you're seeking adventure, discovery, or simply a cool respite from the outside heat, Virginia's caves offer unforgettable adventures that you must experience for yourself to truly capture their wonder. Let’s Go!

In part 2 of this episode, Ranger Erin describes unique features and formations you can experience in the underground, memorable wild caving adventures, and how to register for an upcoming ranger-led program.

This is part 2 of a two-part episode.

Follow VAOA Podcast:

Instagram I Facebook I Newsletter Sign Up
Support the Show! Buy Me A Coffee

Shop the Virginia Outdoor Adventures Merch Store!

VAOA Podcast is Sponsored by:

Virginia Association for Parks

Breaks Interstate Park

Virginia State Parks

Heart of Appalachia 

Advertisers:

Visit Grayson County

Virginia State Parks Interpretive Programs

Mentioned in this Episode:

Connect with Ranger Erin Pitts at New River Trail State Park:

Website I Phone 1-(276)699-6778 I Email: [email protected]

Register for Wild Caving at New River Trail State Park ("Lone Ash Cave Adventures")

Register for Wild Caving at Natural Tunnel State Park ("Wild Cave Tour: Bolling Cave/Pannell Cave")

The Virginia Cave and Karst Trail

Virginia Caves License Plate

Episode 36: Caverns and Caving in Virginia's Karst Regions

Fan Mail - Send Jessica a Text Message

Contact Show Host, Jessica Bowser:

[email protected]

Descend with us into Virginia's spectacular underworld as we explore the hidden realm of wild caves. Unlike commercial show caves, wild caves offer an authentic adventure where nature remains largely untouched. 

Virginia State Parks’ ranger-led caving programs provide the perfect gateway into this mysterious environment. Ranger Erin Pitts from New River Trail State Park shares insights about cave ecosystems, rare species, and the delicate formations found in these subterranean environments. 

Whether you're seeking adventure, discovery, or simply a cool respite from the outside heat, Virginia's caves offer unforgettable adventures that you must experience for yourself to truly capture their wonder. Let’s Go!

Tune in next week for part 2 of this episode when Ranger Erin describes unique features and formations you can experience in the underground, memorable wild caving adventures, and how to register for an upcoming ranger-led program.

Follow VAOA Podcast:

Instagram I Facebook I Newsletter Sign Up
Support the Show! Buy Me A Coffee

Shop the Virginia Outdoor Adventures Merch Store!

VAOA Podcast is Sponsored by:

Virginia Association for Parks

Breaks Interstate Park

Virginia State Parks

Heart of Appalachia 

Advertisers:

Visit Grayson County

Virginia State Parks Interpretive Programs

Mentioned in this Episode:

Connect with Ranger Erin Pitts at New River Trail State Park:

Website I Phone 1-(276)699-6778 I Email: [email protected]

Register for Wild Caving at New River Trail State Park ("Lone Ash Cave Adventures")

Register for Wild Caving at Natural Tunnel State Park ("Wild Cave Tour: Bolling Cave/Pannell Cave")

The Virginia Cave and Karst Trail

Virginia Caves License Plate

Episode 36: Caverns and Caving in Virginia's Karst Regions

Fan Mail - Send Jessica a Text Message

Contact Show Host, Jessica Bowser:

[email protected]