We chose site #4 for our overnight stay. Despite the emerging leaves, I was able to get a workable satellite TV signal. Verizon National Access service was available.

Date of visit: Apr 2006

Sites are wooded, although some sunshine filters through.

All sites offer W/E (30A) hookups. Virginia's reservation is like Georgia's: your reservation is for some site, but not a particular one. So the earlier you arrive, the better choice of sites you will have.

There are a few pull-through sites, but most are back-in. Sites are fairly level and new sandy tent pads have recently been added to most sites.

A bathhouse is located in the middle of the single loop with its 51 sites.

There are 25 cabins near the lake. Some were built by the CCC in the 1930's, while others are newer.

Located about a one-mile walk from the campground is the wide, sunny beach. Boats, canoes and paddleboats are available for rent.

The Legend of the Fairy Stone

The park takes its name from amazing little crystals known as fairy stones. It is said that long ago fairies inhabited a quiet and remote region of the Blue Ridge Mountains. When they heard the news of the death of Christ, they wept. As their tears fell to the earth, they crystallized into little stone crosses.

The stones are really staurolite crystals. Single crystals are hexagonal, and often intersect at right angles to form a Roman or Maltese cross or at other angles to form St Andrews crosses. There is an area in the park where you may find some.