Virginia is home to so much history that it may not surprise you to learn that even its natural attractions have been around for ages. In fact, the oldest river in the state also happens to be one of the oldest in the entire world. Despite its name, New River in Virginia is part of an ancient river system. In fact, the only river that can boast of being older is the Nile in Africa. Here’s more on this beautiful piece of living history found right here in Virginia.

The New River, which floats through southwest Virginia, isn’t just gorgeous; it’s infused with history. In fact, you won’t find a river whose age rivals the New River on the North American Continent.

Benjamin Beard Jr./Google

The river begins as two streams flowing from the Blue Ridge Mountains in North Carolina. These streams converge just four miles from the Virginia border, where they continue to flow through the counties of Grayson, Carroll, Wythe, Pulaski, Montgomery, and Giles.

Tj Terry/Google

Thousands upon thousands have admired the pristine of the New River, yet few realize just how long these waters have flowed their course. Scientists predict that the river could be as old as 1 billion years.

Tj Terry/Google

Another impressive feature of the New River in Virginia is that it flows north, unlike the other rivers on the Eastern Seaboard.

Jeff Underwood / Google

So the next time you’re visiting this region of Virginia, be sure to take the time to appreciate the abundant beauty and history of this river. Whether you enjoy fishing, kayaking, canoeing, or perhaps just sunbathing, you’ll find that this river is worth the visit.

Ali Majdfar / Getty Images

Curious to learn more about the New River in Virginia and all of its incredible recreational opportunities? Be sure to check out this guide from the Virginia Department of Game & Inland Fisheries. Have you had an adventure on the New River in Virginia lately? If so, we’d love to hear all about it!

Benjamin Beard Jr./Google

Tj Terry/Google

Jeff Underwood / Google

Ali Majdfar / Getty Images

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Address: New River, United States

The OIYS Visitor Center

The New River In Virginia October 22, 2020 Beth C. Does Virginia have any natural wonders? Yes! The state of Virginia is positively filled with natural wonders to explore. Whether you’re fascinated by the coast, the mountains, underground caverns, or anything in between, there are several natural wonders in Virginia that you should seek out. Some of the most popular natural wonders in Virginia are Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge, Great Falls Park, Luray Caverns, First Landing State Park, Breaks Interstate Park, Natural Bridge, Crabtree Falls, Grayson Highlands, Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge, and Assateague Island. How many of these lovely natural wonders have you explored? You can learn more by checking out our Natural Wonders Road Trip through Virginia. Where can I go camping on the water in Virginia? Camping enthusiasts will find there are incredible campgrounds in Virginia, each of them offering something totally unique. If it’s waterfront camping you’re after, there are tons of places to check out. Some of the best waterfront campsites include False Cape State Park south of Virginia Beach, First Landing State Park, Kiptopeke State Park, Chippokes Plantation State Park, the Chincoteague Island KOA, and Westmoreland State Park. Looking for other beautiful places to pitch your tent in the Old Dominion? Check out our list of some of the most breathtaking campgrounds in Virginia. What is the top must-see attraction in Virginia? If you’re planning a trip to Virginia, there are a handful of places that would be considered must-see. At the top of the list is Shenandoah National Park. As the most popular national park in Virginia, Shenandoah National Park offers a little something for everyone. For those interested in hiking, you’ll find no shortage of stunning trails to hike in any season. From waterfall trails to relatively flat trails, and challenging mountain treks, you could devote an entire lifetime to exploring all that Shenandoah has to offer. Plus, you can drive through the entire park via the famous Skyline Drive.

The OIYS Visitor Center

The New River In Virginia

October 22, 2020

Beth C.

Does Virginia have any natural wonders? Yes! The state of Virginia is positively filled with natural wonders to explore. Whether you’re fascinated by the coast, the mountains, underground caverns, or anything in between, there are several natural wonders in Virginia that you should seek out. Some of the most popular natural wonders in Virginia are Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge, Great Falls Park, Luray Caverns, First Landing State Park, Breaks Interstate Park, Natural Bridge, Crabtree Falls, Grayson Highlands, Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge, and Assateague Island. How many of these lovely natural wonders have you explored? You can learn more by checking out our Natural Wonders Road Trip through Virginia. Where can I go camping on the water in Virginia? Camping enthusiasts will find there are incredible campgrounds in Virginia, each of them offering something totally unique. If it’s waterfront camping you’re after, there are tons of places to check out. Some of the best waterfront campsites include False Cape State Park south of Virginia Beach, First Landing State Park, Kiptopeke State Park, Chippokes Plantation State Park, the Chincoteague Island KOA, and Westmoreland State Park. Looking for other beautiful places to pitch your tent in the Old Dominion? Check out our list of some of the most breathtaking campgrounds in Virginia. What is the top must-see attraction in Virginia? If you’re planning a trip to Virginia, there are a handful of places that would be considered must-see. At the top of the list is Shenandoah National Park. As the most popular national park in Virginia, Shenandoah National Park offers a little something for everyone. For those interested in hiking, you’ll find no shortage of stunning trails to hike in any season. From waterfall trails to relatively flat trails, and challenging mountain treks, you could devote an entire lifetime to exploring all that Shenandoah has to offer. Plus, you can drive through the entire park via the famous Skyline Drive.

The OIYS Visitor Center

The OIYS Visitor Center

Yes! The state of Virginia is positively filled with natural wonders to explore. Whether you’re fascinated by the coast, the mountains, underground caverns, or anything in between, there are several natural wonders in Virginia that you should seek out. Some of the most popular natural wonders in Virginia are Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge, Great Falls Park, Luray Caverns, First Landing State Park, Breaks Interstate Park, Natural Bridge, Crabtree Falls, Grayson Highlands, Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge, and Assateague Island. How many of these lovely natural wonders have you explored? You can learn more by checking out our Natural Wonders Road Trip through Virginia.

Where can I go camping on the water in Virginia?

Camping enthusiasts will find there are incredible campgrounds in Virginia, each of them offering something totally unique. If it’s waterfront camping you’re after, there are tons of places to check out. Some of the best waterfront campsites include False Cape State Park south of Virginia Beach, First Landing State Park, Kiptopeke State Park, Chippokes Plantation State Park, the Chincoteague Island KOA, and Westmoreland State Park. Looking for other beautiful places to pitch your tent in the Old Dominion? Check out our list of some of the most breathtaking campgrounds in Virginia.

What is the top must-see attraction in Virginia?

If you’re planning a trip to Virginia, there are a handful of places that would be considered must-see. At the top of the list is Shenandoah National Park. As the most popular national park in Virginia, Shenandoah National Park offers a little something for everyone. For those interested in hiking, you’ll find no shortage of stunning trails to hike in any season. From waterfall trails to relatively flat trails, and challenging mountain treks, you could devote an entire lifetime to exploring all that Shenandoah has to offer. Plus, you can drive through the entire park via the famous Skyline Drive.