Fishing & Fly Fishing

Crabtree Falls features five major cascades dropping 1,200 feet—the highest vertical-drop waterfall east of the Mississippi—with paved lower overlook and a 3-mile trail to upper vistas. Crabtree Falls cascades 1,200 vertical feet across five major drops, with an accessible first overlook near the parking area and a 3-mile trail to additional viewpoints for hikers seeking panoramic Blue Ridge vistas.

20-acre Lake Monocan at Wintergreen with seasonal public access, rentals, beach amenities, and stocked fishing opportunities. Midway Concrete Ramp (In James River WMA off Rt.

State-managed 40-acre lake offering largemouth, catfish, and crappie with 24-hour shoreline access and electric-only boating. Lake Nelson's fishing access includes a boat ramp, parking, and portable toilets (March–September), with electric-motor boating and catches ranging from largemouth bass to redear sunfish in this 40-acre impoundment.

Midway Concrete Ramp (In James River WMA off Rt.

Fishing the James River means chasing smallmouth bass, flathead and channel catfish, and panfish from Botetourt County through Nelson's border, with both mountain and Piedmont stretches producing year-round action. Midway Concrete Ramp (In James River WMA off Rt.

Midway Concrete Ramp (In James River WMA off Rt.

South Fork Rockfish River stocked trout waters with Route 6 put-in, Rt. 29 take-out, and fall-through-spring fishing windows.

Tye River fishery stocked with trout and home to smallmouth bass, offering roadside access along Route 56 and scenic Blue Ridge runs. Fishing the Tye River rewards anglers with smallmouth bass, bluegill, and stocked trout (October–May) along the 35-mile tributary fed by the Piney and Buffalo rivers—bring waders for fly fishing runs and check DWR trout schedules.

The James River forms Nelson County's southeastern border, offering endless canoe and kayak launches, johnboat access, and fishing for smallmouth, largemouth, catfish, and sunfish along Virginia's most storied waterway. James River corridor on Nelson's southeastern edge with multiple ramps, float trips, and access to the 64-mile Upper James River Water Trail.

40-acre DGIF lake with boat ramp, year-round bank fishing, electric-motor boating, and seasonal restrooms near Arrington. Lake Nelson is a 40-acre DGIF reservoir with a concrete boat ramp, 24/7 access, and electric-motor-only fishing for largemouth bass, crappie, channel cats, and sunfish just outside Arrington.

Montebello Country Store & Cafe is a fifth-generation general store near Crabtree Falls with groceries, camping supplies, and a cafe serving chili and country fare.

Half-mile nature walk beside Montebello's former fish hatchery stream with fern-lined banks, benches, and steady bird activity.

Follow Route 666 past Dickie Brothers Orchard and into George Washington National Forest for shady picnics beside the river.

Parr's Camp is a historic 1940s fishing cabin restored with original paneling, screened porch, pond, and space for seven guests on a 70-acre riverfront estate bordering the George Washington National Forest. Your host looks forward to your visit: responsive, helpful, informative and to offer any assistance needed.

Each accommodation provides bedrooms, full kitchens, and generous living rooms for families and groups, while onsite trails connect directly to Crabtree Falls and mountain viewpoints. A dedicated hospitality team keeps spaces immaculate, arranges hikes, fishing, and winery excursions, and answers special requests so guests enjoy a secluded yet fully supported Blue Ridge escape.

Nestled in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Schuyler offers visitors a unique opportunity to experience the stories, landscapes, and traditions that shaped rural Virginia. Known as the inspiration for the beloved television series The Waltons, Schuyler invites travelers to explore local history, scenic country roads, and the authentic character of a close-knit mountain community. Whether you're discovering the area's cultural heritage or using Schuyler as a peaceful base for exploring Nelson County, you'll find a place where the past and present come together.

Spy Rock's soaring granite dome remains open via a 6.5-mile round-trip hike from Meadows Lane (SR 826) after the fish hatchery lot closure. Alternative 6.5-mile round-trip route to Spy Rock via Meadows Lane featuring sustained climbs, rocky scrambles, and sweeping summit panoramas.

Wintergreen’s Orvis-Endorsed instructors provide the perfect classroom setting at Lake Monocan to introduce students to the art of fly fishing. Anglers can also experience the thrill of fishing for trout in the mountains or smallmouth bass on the legendary James River with a knowledgeable and friendly guide. Midway Concrete Ramp (In James River WMA off Rt. Midway Concrete Ramp)