Natural Bridge State Park

Located just 2 miles off Interstate 81, Natural Bridge State Park draws visitors from near and far. While the iconic limestone bridge and breathtaking scenery are the main attractions, the visitor center is an essential part of the park experience.  

Once inside, you’ll discover that it’s much more than a starting point for your adventure. It’s a one-stop-shop that offers something for everyone, whether you’re just passing through or a longtime park visitor. 

Here’s everything you can do at the Natural Bridge visitor center. 

Refuel at the Outpost Café 

The Outpost Café at Natural Bridge State Park

After a morning of exploring the park’s trails or marveling at the Natural Bridge, you’re bound to work up an appetite. Fortunately, the visitor center is home to the Outpost Café. From pretzels and popcorn to sandwiches and hot dogs, the café offers a range of tasty food to help you recharge.  

The Outpost Café is open daily from Memorial Day through Labor Day and open weekends and holidays during the rest of the year. Hours and menu items are subject to change, so if you want to know what’s being served during your visit, you can call the visitor center at 540-291-1326. 

Shop local 

The Artisan Center at Natural Bridge State Park 

The Artisan Center at the visitor center is a must-see during your trip. It’s a treasure trove of local creativity and craftsmanship, giving you the chance to take home a piece of Virginia's rich cultural heritage. 

By shopping here, you not only discover unique, handcrafted items like pottery, woodwork and jewelry but you also support talented regional artisans. It’s a wonderful way to find meaningful souvenirs, gifts or home accents while contributing to the local economy.  

If you’re a Virginia-based artisan interested in learning more about being featured at Natural Bridge’s visitor center, please email naturalbridge@dcr.virginia.gov.  

Browse the gift shop 

The gift shop at Natural Bridge State Park

Speaking of souvenirs, the visitor center’s large gift shop offers something for everyone. Packed with a variety of park-themed items, apparel, books and educational toys, you’ll have no trouble finding the perfect keepsake to commemorate your visit.

Whether you’re looking for a t-shirt to show off your trip, a magnet for your fridge or a guidebook to learn more about the park’s fascinating geology, the gift shop has it all. 

Learn 

Base Camp at Natural Bridge State Park

Natural Bridge State Park is a place of wonder, but it’s also a place of learning. The visitor center’s educational space, Base Camp, offers exhibits that dive deeper into the park’s history and cultural significance while ranger-led programs and interactive displays provide insights into the formation of the iconic Natural Bridge and the surrounding ecosystems.  

Heading to Base Camp is a fantastic way to gain a richer understanding of the park before or after you explore its natural beauty. Base Camp is open every day during the summer, on the weekends during spring and has limited hours during the winter. For more information about basecamp, including operating hours, please go to virginiastateparks.gov/natural-bridge. 

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As you can see, Natural Bridge State Park’s visitor center is more than a pit stop. Whether you’re sipping a coffee at the Outpost Café, finding a handcrafted gift, picking out a keepsake or expanding your knowledge, there’s something for everyone. 

Natural Bridge State Park and the visitor center are open daily. To learn more and start planning your visit, go to virginiastateparks.gov/natural-bridge.