Red Onion State Prison

Red Onion State Prison contains individual cells designed for strict isolation, with reinforced walls and limited access points for enhanced security measures.

The Virginia Department of Corrections opened this facility in August 1998, with construction costs reaching 70 million dollars, exceeding initial estimates by 18 million.

The prison population reflects demographic differences between urban inmates and rural staff, leading to discussions about institutional practices and social dynamics.

Inmates remain in their cells for 23 hours daily, with specific time allocations for exercise, medical appointments, and limited educational programming.

The facility sits atop Red Onion Mountain, utilizing geographical isolation as an additional security measure for containing high-risk offenders.

Location: Wise County

Inception: 1998

Official opening: August 1998

Reference: 11

Website: https://www.vadoc.virginia.gov/facilities/western/redonion/

Operator: Virginia Department of Corrections

Address: 10800 H. Jack Rose Highway 24279 Pound

Phone: +12767967510

Website: https://vadoc.virginia.gov/facilities/western/redonion

GPS coordinates: 37.11110,-82.55000

Latest update: November 22, 2025 11:20