Flatwoods Group Picnic Area
02 reviews1700 Park Avenue SW, Norton, VA, USA, 24273
Flatwoods Group Picnic Area
$65.00 - $80.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$0.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Facility rates by season: during peak season (May 23, 2025 - September 19, 2025), the daily rate is $65 for groups of 1-50 people and $80 for groups of 51 or more. Displayed rates exclude taxes, discounts, and incremental charges.
About this campground
Tucked away in a tranquil forest embrace, Flatwoods Group Picnic Area offers the perfect sanctuary for bringing people together. Whether you're planning a memorable family reunion or organizing a team retreat, this secluded haven provides everything you need for an unforgettable gathering. Expansive lawns invite games and laughter, while winding hiking trails beckon adventure seekers to explore the surrounding wilderness. The heart of the facility is a well-appointed picnic shelter complete with electricity and water, ensuring comfort meets nature in perfect harmony.
Flatwoods Group Picnic Area is designed predominantly for day-use group events rather than overnight camping. It provides a picnic shelter and adjacent dining areas but lacks primitive, RV, or tent camping facilities.
Historical SignificanceStep into a landscape where nature and history intertwine. Hidden among the trees, you'll discover fascinating remnants of the railway systems that once carried the lifeblood of Appalachian industry – coal and precious saltpeter – through these ancient mountains. These weathered tracks tell stories of determination and progress, while the very rocks beneath your feet whisper tales from 300 million years ago, when this land was young and the world unrecognizable.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the full drama of mountain seasons at Flatwoods, where weather patterns paint an ever-changing canvas throughout the year. Winter transforms the landscape into a crystalline wonderland, though temperatures demand warm layers and hearty spirits. As spring melts into early summer, the area reveals its most welcoming face – these golden weeks offer ideal conditions for outdoor gatherings, with gentle breezes and comfortable temperatures. Throughout the year, clouds often drift across the peaks, occasionally blessing the forest with refreshing rain or, in colder months, magical dustings of snow.
ElevationThe picnic area rests at a comfortable mountain elevation, offering refreshing air and scenic vantage points throughout the grounds.
Natural Features and SceneryNature showcases her finest artistry in the landscapes surrounding Flatwoods. The magnificent Guest River Gorge unfolds like a living painting, where lush riparian forests cascade down towering sandstone cliffs and wildlife thrives in remarkable abundance. Watch for migratory birds painting the sky with their seasonal journeys. Meanwhile, the dramatic Little Stony Creek Gorge presents a wilder face of nature – here, waterfalls tumble through rugged terrain while mountain laurel creates enchanting thickets that burst with delicate blooms each spring.
Geological RegionFlatwoods Group Picnic Area sits nestled within a spectacular mountainous tapestry where riparian forests meet ancient sandstone outcrops. The crown jewel of the region, Guest River Gorge, stands as a testament to 300 million years of Earth's patient sculpting. Just nearby, the awe-inspiring Little Stony Creek Gorge plunges 400 feet deep while stretching 1,700 feet wide, creating a natural amphitheater that showcases the raw power of geological time. This is a landscape that humbles visitors with its age and inspires them with its enduring beauty.
Campsite details
AccessibilitySome accessibility features include a nearby paved parking lot and accessible facilities. The first 0.3 miles of the Guest River Gorge trail, located near the picnic area, is handicap accessible.
Sites SizeThe site is designed to accommodate groups of up to 50 people for the lower rate and groups of 51 to the maximum limit for a higher fee.
Sites PrivacyThe area is described as 'secluded,' implying a sense of privacy surrounded by forest.
Total Campsites1 campsites
Recommended CampsitesThis site is ideal for family events requiring covered shelters, electricity, and water access. It is less suited for individual camping or overnight stays.
Best CampsitesFlatwoods Picnic Shelter is the only campsite available and contains sinks, running water, and flush toilets.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
8:00 AM
Check-out
4:30 PM
Tents
Tents are not allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe picnic area includes a paved parking lot, a covered picnic shelter, and adjoining open lawns for recreation.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen during the peak season (May 23, 2025 - September 19, 2025). Seasonal closures are outside this range.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov online, app, or contact center.
Walk-in AvailabilityAdvance reservations are recommended as the picnic area is gated and requires a code for entry.
Cancellation PolicyA $10 cancellation fee applies for changes or cancellations. For group day-use reservations, the entire fee is forfeited if canceled within 14 days of the arrival date.
Amenities available
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Flush toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Flatwoods Group Picnic Area offers a variety of recreational activities primarily aimed at day-use visitors. Open lawn spaces are perfect for games like horseshoes, sports, and other group activities (guests must bring their own equipment). Hiking trails are accessible within a short drive, providing opportunities to explore the scenic Guest River Gorge and Little Stony Falls.
Hiking
Several hiking trails are located near the area, such as the Guest River Gorge Trail (5.8 miles) and the Little Stony National Recreation Trail (2.8 miles). The trails offer diverse experiences, from handicap-accessible sections to challenging segments requiring navigation over boulders. Scenic landmarks include a 24-foot waterfall and remnants of historic railway structures.Fishing
Fishing opportunities are available in the nearby Guest River and Little Stony Creek. Species and specific fishing conditions were not detailed.Biking
The Guest River Gorge Trail is also suitable for biking. Its 5.8-mile stretch follows an old railroad grade and features riparian forests and sandstone outcrops.Wildlife viewing
The area is abundant with wildlife, including migratory birds like flycatchers, warblers, and tanagers during summer. The trails offer excellent opportunities for birdwatching and observing other native species.Winter Activities
No specific winter activities are mentioned.Water Sports
Flatwoods Group Picnic Area does not specifically cater to non-motorized water sports such as kayaking or paddleboarding.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Firewood must be acquired locally to prevent invasive pests. Charcoal grills are provided at shelters.
- Quiet hours are Null
Hazards
General hazardsElectrical issues have been reported, such as breakers kicking off. Trails may close due to storm events and related hazards.
Active alertsContact the Ranger Station for trail conditions and gate access. The gate may not be opened on time unless contacted.
Weather forecast
66
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 51%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 5.2 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Overcast
7-Day Forecast
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Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
The local Ranger Station is available for immediate assistance. The nearest full-service emergency hospital is in Norton, VA.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 23, 2025 - September 19, 2025
Trash and recyclingNo specific details about trash and recycling facilities were provided. Visitors are encouraged to adhere to Leave No Trace principles.
Proximity to water featuresThe campground is near Guest River Gorge and Little Stony Falls, featuring rivers and waterfalls.
Common complaintsUser reviews frequently mention electrical issues and lack of immediate resolutions for electricity outages. One review noted, 'The breaker did keep kicking off. Definitely something going on there.'
HostContact the local Ranger Station at 276-679-8370 for assistance and gate access.
Campground Map
1700 Park Avenue SW, Norton, VA, USA, 24273
Driving directionsFrom Coeburn, VA, go south on State Route 72 for 2.3 miles. The Flatwoods Picnic Area will be on the right (west) side of Route 72.
The picnic area is accessible via a paved road from State Route 72. Entry requires a gate combination code, which can be obtained by contacting the Ranger Station. On rental days, the gate is opened early.Nearby places
Coeburn, VA (2.3 miles, approximately 5 minutes drive), Norton, VA (6.5 miles, approximately 15 minutes drive)
Nearby supplies
Groceries, camping supplies, and fuel are accessible in nearby Norton, VA (approximately 6.5 miles away).
Camper Reviews
0.0
2 reviews
Flatwoods Group Picnic Area has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews provide a mixed perspective of the site. While some appreciate its suitability for family gatherings and events, others note issues such as unreliable electrical systems in the picnic shelter.
Review Summaries
Based on 2 reviews
What Campers Love
Users praised the scenic and wooded setting, the availability of restrooms, and the spacious shelter equipped with running water and BBQ grills. One user stated, 'Very nice little wooded area with...
Based on 2 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
The most common complaint relates to electrical issues at the picnic shelter. One review mentioned, 'The electricity in the shelter did not work. Although we were informed the day prior to our event,...
Based on 2 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Bring your own sports and game equipment for the open lawn areas. Check with the Ranger Station for the gate combination and trail conditions. Visitors should also be prepared to manage without...
Based on 2 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Reviews are not seasonally detailed, but summer events seem to be a focus due to outdoor activities and wildlife viewing opportunities.
Based on 2 reviewsCamper Quotes
1. 'My sister had her wedding here. It has restrooms and a covering shelter for BBQs.' 2. 'The electricity in the shelter did not work.' 3. 'Very nice little wooded area with many picnic tables. Nice...
Based on 2 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
No specific campsite numbers are associated with reviews as this is a group-use area.
Based on 2 reviewsAccessibility Features
The first 0.3 miles of the Guest River Gorge Trail are handicap accessible, and paved parking is available near the shelter. No reviews specifically address these features.
Based on 2 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed on a leash, but no reviews provide detailed experiences regarding pet policies or features.
Based on 2 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025