Virginia Department
of Forestry

The property became a state forest in 1938, deeded by the Conway Robinson Memorial Park Association in memory of the late Conway Robinson. There was considerable reluctance in accepting the property, due to the belief that no one would ever use it. At the time of the gift, Lee Highway (Route 29) was a single-track dirt road that was difficult to traverse, particularly in wet weather. Now, the area is one of the highest populated areas in Virginia.

In the 1930’s, a Civilian Conservation Corp (CCC) camp was located on the site of the current parking area. Members of the CCC crew planted the first trees on the property.

Historical Landmarks

An abandoned railroad bed on the forest was part of the uncompleted Manassas Gap Railroad, originally planned as a route from Gainesville to Alexandria.

The Conway Robinson State Forest provides opportunities for a variety of development activities to enhance its timber and multiple-use values. The loblolly pine stands are being harvested over time, with consideration given to reforesting with shortleaf pine, a diminished species in Virginia.

There has been mortality of some large, old oaks throughout the state forest.  While we can’t prevent old trees from dying, we can encourage young, fast growing, healthy trees to replace them. We are planning management work to encourage good oak regeneration, which will include timber stand improvement practices and timber sales.  Several hardwood demonstration projects will be included for education, training and research purposes.

Rare and Endangered Species

Although not endangered, two notable plant species have been identified on site, Virginia bluebells and large-flowered trillium.

Recreational uses of the Conway Robinson State Forest include hiking, biking, horseback riding, and wildlife watching. Hiking is the most common recreational use.

Visitors are asked to adopt a “leave-no-trace” ethic when visiting the forest, as there are no restrooms or trash cans on the forest itself.

ATV/ORV use, camping, and swimming are prohibited on all State Forests.

A State Forest Use Permit* is required for individuals aged 16 and older to hunt, fish, trap, horseback ride, or mountain bike on state forest lands. The permit can be purchased online or where hunting licenses are sold.

Trails and Roads

• 5.1 miles of forest trails (no vehicles)
• 0.2. miles of forest roads (vehicles allowed)
• 1.2 miles of gated forest roads (no vehicles)
• No driving past forest gates.

Hiking

Hiking is permitted on trails and all forest roads.

Mountain Biking

Mountain biking is permitted on trails and all forest roads.

Horseback Riding

Horseback riding is permitted, but parking for horse trailers is limited.

State law requires that visitors carry a copy of a negative Coggins test report with each horse on state lands.

Hunting and Trapping

A lottery hunt is occasionally conducted. Hunting with lottery permit, valid State Forest Use Permit and valid hunting license in accordance with state regulations. Note that some regulations may be different than on private land, so check Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources Hunting Regulations for specific state forest details.

Lottery Hunt

Lottery hunts scheduled for November 25 and December 9, 2024.

For information about requirements for the lottery hunt, read the lottery hunt protocol.

To apply for the lottery hunt, submit your application here. Deadline October 20, 2024, at 11:59 p.m.

Other Recreational Opportunities

Other passive recreational opportunities, such as wildlife watching and nature photography, are available.

• Self-learning opportunities are available.
• Self-guided educational opportunities – interpretive signs.

Explore tree and wildlife identification, study rock formations, or simply observe nature. The forest demonstrates forest management, harvesting techniques, and best management practices to landowners, loggers, and industry professionals.

Local schools can use the state forest for educational purposes.

For more information or questions, e-mail us or use our contact form.

State Forest Main Office
Located at Cumberland State Forest
751 Oak Hill Road, Cumberland, VA 23040-2511
E-mail | (804) 492-4121

Local Contact
Jack Kauffman, Forest Manager
900 Natural Resources Drive, Suite 800, Charlottesville, VA 22903
E-mail | (540)395-1226