Copyright: Virginia State Parks
Karlan Mansion
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Description - This park lies within a historically and geographically significant region of Virginia. In 1775, Daniel Boone carved the Wilderness Road, and by the 19th century over 300,000 settlers traveled this road westward through Cumberland Gap into Kentucky and the Midwest. The park's 200 acres extend over both sides of the Wilderness Road. It is one of four new Virginia parks.
Attractions
- Because this park is one of Virginia's newest, much of the facilities are still under development. At present, the park is best known for its lovely picnic areas, the Karlan Mansion and its trails. The 1870s mansion is unfurnished, however, is available for rent and makes a wonderful location for special events such as weddings and corporate gatherings.
Recreation - Visitors can enjoy the 10 miles of Wilderness Road that have been established for hiking, biking and equestrianism. During the summer months the park offers rental bikes. Even though an Environmental Education Center is still on the planning books, park staff offers interpretive and environmental educational programs. The Wilderness Road Outpost, which stocks light refreshments and supplies, is located in the park next to the Wilderness Road Trail. The Outpost is open seasonally. Eventually this park will be the site of a reproduction pioneer village representing life during the westward expansion of the late 1700s. The park offers primitive group camping for groups of up to 50. Campers must bring drinking water; pit-toilets are available, showers are not. Campers must first register at the park office located at Karlan Mansion. Reservations are required, call 1-800-933-PARK (in Richmond, 225-3867). Limited access. (Camping is also available six miles away at Cumberland Gap National Historical Park, Middlesboro, Ky.) Canoe livery and guided canoe trips along the Powell River are available. Camping is available six miles away at Cumberland Gap National Historical Park, Middlesboro, Kentucky. Also within a short driving distance is Historic Cumberland Gap and Norris Lake, both located in Tennessee. The beautiful Pine Mountain State Resort Park in Kentucky is approximately 35 miles away. Wilderness Road Tours, 606-248-2626, offer van and bus tours of Cumberland Gap. Climate - Virginia generally has mild winters and warm humid summers. The area southwest of the mountainous Blue Ridge has cold winter months with temperatures ranging from 38 degrees Fahrenheit (3 degrees Celsius) and dropping below 34 degrees Fahrenheit (1 Celsius). The state's summer temperatures have little variation. Southwest of the mountainous Blue Ridge, summer temperatures range from below 76 degrees Fahrenheit (24 Celsius) to 78 degrees Fahrenheit (26 Celsius). Location -
The park is located 5 miles west of Ewing, Virginia at the intersection of U.S. 58 and Rt. 923.
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