Picnic on the Parkway

Plan a picnic at these Boone-area parkway picnic areas

The classic Blue Ridge Parkway day trip always includes a roadside picnic. Major picnic areas line the route, often situated by scenic streams or lofty vistas. Grills or fireplaces, water fountains, picnic shelters, refuse disposal/recycling facilities, and restrooms are all on hand. Larger sites accommodate groups for gatherings. Picnic areas often have single tables situated alone, as do several overlooks, parking areas, and some trailheads. You can always just pull off the road onto a grassy shoulder and throw a blanket by the car!

DOUGHTON PARK PICNIC AREA (MILEPOST 241.1) 

Fifty-six sites sprawl east of the Parkway overlooking Bluffs Lodge. From the end loop, a short meadow walk and left on the Bluff Ridge Trail leads to a log cabin picnic shelter with fine views.

JEFFRESS PARK (MILEPOST 272)

Great valley views, restrooms, and thirty picnic tables flank the Cascades Parking Overlook, the start of a wonderful, 1.2-mile waterfall walk.

JULIAN PRICE PICNIC AREA (MILEPOST 296.4)

100 picnic sites and restrooms line a meandering stream at the start of the strenuous 5.5-mile Boone Fork Trail loop.

LINVILLE FALLS PICNIC AREA (MILEPOST 316.5)

This picnic spot's 100 sites and restrooms lie along the banks of the Linville River above Linville Falls.