Dragon Run State Forest

Dragon Run State Forest is a state forest in King and Queen County covering about 9,600 acres of managed woodland. The landscape features loblolly pine plantations interspersed with perennial streams and beaver-created wetlands.

The Virginia Department of Forestry established this forest in 2007 through an initial acquisition of 1,800 acres from The Nature Conservancy using Forest Legacy Program funding. The creation reflected a commitment to sustainable forest management in the region.

The forest supports multiple land uses including watershed protection, wildlife habitat maintenance, timber production, research, and sustainable forestry demonstration.

Visitors aged 16 and older need a State Forest Use Permit for activities such as hunting, fishing, horseback riding, or mountain biking. It is advisable to check local conditions and visit during quieter periods to avoid crowds and active recreational use.

The beaver dams throughout the forest shift and change their configuration with each season, constantly reshaping water channels and shorelines. This means the landscape looks noticeably different depending on when you visit.

GPS coordinates: 37.70967,-76.80747

Latest update: December 14, 2025 11:03