Martinsville-Henry County, Virginia is an outdoor enthusiast's paradise. Whether you are interested in paddling, fishing, hiking, bicycling, geocaching or nature watching there is something for everyone to enjoy here. Come visit us to see for yourself and remember to stop by the Visitor Center for free trail and lake maps.
Philpott Lake  The fun starts in the North West corner of Henry county at Philpott Lake. This 3,000 acre reservoir is
surrounded by 7,000 acres of public land for your recreational enjoyment. Eight campgrounds, six beaches and nine boat launches are available around the lake. Be sure to stop by the lake's Visitor Center for a guided tour of their History & Culture Exhibits or listen to an informative Ranger Talk offered each weekend.
The Smith RiverBelow Philpott Dam a 44.5-mile section of the Smith River bisects Henry County, Virginia, as it travels from Philpott Lake down to the North Carolina border. This is one water destination that really does have it all. Travel through history as you explore the Smith River through the towns of Bassett, Stanleytown, Fieldale, Ridgeway and Martinsville, once the heart of furniture and textiles in America. Explore the rock outcrops,  scenery and Native American fish weirs still intact on sections of the river. Nine public canoe ramps are available for use by paddlers. If you enjoy whitewater, paddle the river during peak generation from the dam, if a relaxing flat water paddle is more your speed put your boat in further downstream. Call (276) 629-2432 before paddling or fishing to listen to a recorded generation schedule. Smith River Adventure Outfitters, located at the South Martinsville River Access, offers guided trips, rentals and paddling gear for sale. If you prefer fishing, wild trout are abundant and the Smith River is known for its "wiley browns." Stocked Rainbows can also be caught above Martinsville, while small mouths and redbreast are abundant further downstream. For additional information on trout fishing contact the Smith River Chapter of Trout Unlimited at (276) 340-3193 or visit Fish Virginia First.
Smith River Trail System It's Easy To "Take A Hike" in Martinsville-Henry County, Virginia! Numerous multi-use trails are available for use by hikers, bicyclists, rollerbladers and nature enthusiasts. The Smith River Trail System is a local network of trails that is part of the larger Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation's Beaches to Bluegrass Trail spanning from the Eastern shore of Virginia to Kentucky. Forgot to pack your bike? Borrow one and bring it back to the Activate Bike Barn, a free bicycle loan program. Uptown Spur Trail - Paved Surface, 0.6 mile, Easy (Connects to Dick & Willie Passage, Clocktower Business Center and Uptown Martinsville)
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