Matthews State Forest
Rate this placeLast Updated: December 5, 2025
Matthews State Forest is a beautiful natural area located in the state of Virginia.
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Summary
The forest offers a variety of outdoor activities such as hiking, fishing, and hunting. The forest covers over 2,000 acres of land and is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna.
One of the main reasons to visit Matthews State Forest is to enjoy the peaceful and serene natural environment. The forest is home to several hiking trails that offer stunning views of the surrounding landscape. Visitors can also enjoy fishing in the nearby streams or hunting in designated areas of the forest.
Some of the main points of interest in Matthews State Forest include the forest's impressive collection of trees and plants. The forest is home to several species of oak and hickory trees, as well as a variety of wildflowers and ferns. Visitors can also explore the forest's many streams and waterfalls.
Interesting facts about Matthews State Forest include that it is named after a local conservationist, Lacey C. Matthews. Matthews worked tirelessly to protect Virginia's natural areas and was instrumental in the creation of several state parks.
The best time of year to visit Matthews State Forest is during the fall when the foliage is at its most vibrant. Visitors can enjoy hiking through the forest's many trails and taking in the stunning views of the changing leaves. Spring is also a great time to visit, as the forest comes to life with blooming flowers and fresh greenery.
Overall, Matthews State Forest is a must-visit destination for anyone who loves the great outdoors. With its beautiful natural environment, diverse range of flora and fauna, and many outdoor activities, it is a great place to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life and connect with nature.
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Park & Land Designation Reference
Large protected natural areas managed by the federal government to preserve significant landscapes, ecosystems, and cultural resources; recreation is allowed but conservation is the priority.
State Park
Public natural or recreational areas managed by a state government, typically smaller than national parks and focused on regional natural features, recreation, and education.
Local Park
Community-level parks managed by cities or counties, emphasizing recreation, playgrounds, sports, and green space close to populated areas.
Wilderness Area
The highest level of land protection in the U.S.; designated areas where nature is left essentially untouched, with no roads, structures, or motorized access permitted.
National Recreation Area
Areas set aside primarily for outdoor recreation (boating, hiking, fishing), often around reservoirs, rivers, or scenic landscapes; may allow more development.
National Conservation Area (BLM)
BLM-managed areas with special ecological, cultural, or scientific value; more protection than typical BLM land but less strict than Wilderness Areas.
State Forest
State-managed forests focused on habitat, watershed, recreation, and sustainable timber harvest.
National Forest
Federally managed lands focused on multiple use—recreation, wildlife habitat, watershed protection, and resource extraction (like timber)—unlike the stricter protections of national parks.
Wilderness
A protected area set aside to conserve specific resources—such as wildlife, habitats, or scientific features—with regulations varying widely depending on the managing agency and purpose.
Bureau of Land Management (BLM) Land
Vast federal lands managed for mixed use—recreation, grazing, mining, conservation—with fewer restrictions than national parks or forests.
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