Department of Conservation and Recreation
Conserve. Protect. Enjoy.
Department of Conservation and Recreation
Media inquiries: Please contact Dave Neudeck, dave.neudeck@dcr.virginia.gov, 804-786-5053.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Date: June 02, 2025
Contact: Starr Anderson, Public Relations and Marketing Specialist, 540-460-1540, starr.anderson@dcr.virginia.gov
The Nature Conservancy transfers 184 acres to Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation, expanding Clinch River State Park
ABINGDON, Va. — The Nature Conservancy (TNC) recently transferred 184 acres in Russell County, Virginia, between the towns of Honaker and Lebanon, to the Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR) State Park Division, marking a significant milestone in the expansion of the recently established Clinch River State Park.
The Clinch River State Park is a unique “blueway” in Virginia, consisting of several anchor properties in Wise and Russell Counties that connect with additional canoe and kayak access points to form a “string of pearls” along the Clinch River corridor. This latest transfer includes 1.78 miles of Clinch River shoreline, which will further enhance public access to the river, water- and land-based outdoor recreation opportunities, environmental education, and sustainable economic development through tourism.
“This transfer exemplifies the power of partnership in conservation,” said Brad Kreps, Clinch Valley Program Director for The Nature Conservancy. “Through TNC’s initial acquisition and now DCR’s long-term ownership and management of this beautiful stretch of river, we’re ensuring that these lands and waters will be protected into the future, while also being accessible to the public to enjoy.”
The Clinch River possesses globally important biodiversity, including one of the highest concentrations of rare freshwater mussels and fish in North America. The wider Clinch Valley is dramatically scenic, and the state park is complemented by other regional outdoor assets such as the Pinnacle and Cleveland Barrens State Natural Area Preserves, the Cumberland Forest, the Channels State Forest, and United States Forest Service lands at High Knob.
“We’re grateful to The Nature Conservancy for their thoughtful stewardship and for entrusting DCR with these 184 acres along the Clinch River,” said DCR Director Matt Wells. “This land will support the continued growth of Clinch River State Park, helping to protect the river’s incredible biodiversity while providing more opportunities for outdoor recreation, education, and community enjoyment. It’s a meaningful step in preserving the natural beauty and heritage of Southwest Virginia.”
With this latest receipt of land from TNC, and the recent completion of its master plan, Clinch River State Park now contains 1,342.96 acres and is ready to advance further into its development phase where additional state funding is needed for trails, campgrounds, and other public amenities.
-30-
The Nature Conservancy is a global conservation organization dedicated to conserving the lands and waters on which all life depends. Guided by science, we create innovative, on-the-ground solutions to our world's toughest challenges so that nature and people can thrive together. We are tackling climate change, conserving lands, waters, and oceans at an unprecedented scale, providing food and water sustainably and helping make cities more sustainable. Working in 76 countries—37 by direct conservation impact and 39 through partners—we use a collaborative approach that engages local communities, governments, the private sector, and other partners. Learn more about The Nature Conservancy’s work in Virginia at nature.org/virginia and follow us on Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn and X.
Virginia State Parks are managed by the Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation. For more information about Virginia State Parks’ activities and amenities or to reserve one of the more than 1,800 campsites or 300 climate-controlled cabins, call the Virginia State Parks Reservation Center at 800-933-PARK or visit www.virginiastateparks.gov.
Share this news release:
