Just minutes from Downtown Rocky Mount, Virginia is a park paradise full of outdoor activity and adventure. Covering 220 acres, Waid Park in Franklin County is ideal for all ages and all levels of activity. Enter the recreation area by following a preserved portion of the “Great Wagon Road”, known locally as the “Carolina Road”, which is a historical “highway” originally used by Native Americans and early settlers for transportation and trade.
Explore 16 miles of multi-use trails by foot or bike, and catch glimpses of scenic farmland, river views, and rolling hills. The “Bike Skills Loop” is an excellent trail choice for beginner bikers to develop and finetune their skills. For the experts, technical singletrack and advanced mountain biking features can be found on “Skeletor” and the “Old Buzzard Jump Line”. Disc golfers rejoice! There is an 18-hole professional disc golf course, as well as a 9-hole course for beginners.
Wind down on the water with some summer tubing on the Pigg River. Waid Park is the beginning of the Pigg River Blueway, and is perfect for cooling off after a hot day. Take in idyllic views of Franklin County by your choice of watercraft on an 8-mile float to Lynch Riverside Park.
Support Local Businesses
Take a break from the action to enjoy “Franklin County’s Finest Hot Dogs” at Bowling’s Place. Serving the county’s best hot dogs since 1950, enjoy a famous red dog on a steamed bun with a slice of “hoop” cheese, signature chili, and pinto beans. There is limited countertop and booth seating, but is a favorite among locals and visitors alike for its small town charm and nostalgia.
Know Before you Go!
- There is no fee for entry or parking at Waid Park, but be sure to head out after sunset, as overnight camping is prohibited.
