Fishing & Swimming
Streams, ponds and rivers give anglers a chance to try their luck for trout and, in some waters, bass and panfish. A state fishing license is required. Creel limits and other regulations vary. Inquire at visitor centers or Ranger stations.
Streams and lakes on the Blue Ridge Parkway are game fish waters for which Federal Regulations set forth in Title 36, Sections 2.3 and 7.34(b) of the Code of Federal Regulations are in effect.
Except in designated areas or as provided in Federal Regulations, fishing shall be in accordance with the laws and regulations of the state in which the water is located.
Waters that are not named in the "Special Waters" section in the Fishing Regulations section are subject to State General Fishing Regulations.
Best suggestion when fishing in Parkway waters is to contact the local ranger for special regulations/rules that apply to that specific fishing area for bait type, limits, etc. Regulations are normally posted at each Parkway fishing area, but they are different from place to place.
Swimming
Swimming is prohibited on the Parkway. Several nearby state parks and national forests have developed swimming areas.
At the lowest elevation along the Parkway, visitors can hike, camp, fish, have a picnic, and see restored Battery Creek Lock from the Kanawha Canal.
Open year round, the Folk Art Center on the Blue Ridge Parkway showcases the finest in traditional and contemporary craft of the Southern Appalachians.
The 64th edition of the Blue Ridge Parkway Directory & Travel Planner is here! Explore area lodging and attractions, Parkway maps, services and more.
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A journey on the Blue Ridge Parkway offers motorists spectacular views of Southern Appalachia’s diverse beauty for 469.1 uninterrupted miles.
