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Ryan's Branch is located on the north side of Philpott Lake, a 3000 acre lake with 100 miles of shoreline nestled among the rolling foothills of Virginia's Blue Ridge Mountains. The lake's clear water and natural shoreline make it a unique place for visitors to enjoy numerous recreational opportunities.Ryans Branch Recreation Area is in the Parks category for Franklin County in the state of Virginia. Ryans Branch Recreation Area is displayed on the Philpott Lake USGS quad topo map....

Hikers can trek up to 6.6 miles on the Grassy Hill Hiking Trail System that starts at the base in Rocky Mount, Va., and climbs to the ridge line with two trail loops along the ridge top and side slopes. Most of the trail system is in the Grassy Hill Natural Area Preserve, a 1,295-acre site owned and managed by the Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation. Nearly three miles of Grassy Hill that forms...

The peaceful waters of the Pigg River flowing through Waid Recreation Park is the perfect weekend escape this summer. The S-turning river with calm waters and several sections of ripples is well suited for families or individuals who desire a no-shuttle needed float.Three put-in options allow tubers the flexibility to customize the distance and duration of their time on the water. Float it once or multiple times.The upper put-in allows for a 45 minute (1...

Franklin County Recreation Park is a 150-acre park, located south of Rocky Mount (just 2 miles from Rt. 220). The park offers a variety of outdoor activities for all ages including hiking trails rolling over beautiful wooded hills, nestled around an acre size fishing pond. It hosts various athletic tournaments and special events, including Southwest Virginia Antique Farm Days and Franklin County Agricultural Fair. Some of the amenities at the park include:2 picnic shelters (available...

Gilley's Park is a public, year-round fishing pond park at the end of Trail Drive. A cooperative effort between the Town of Rocky Mount and Franklin County, the park's three ponds are stocked several times yearly, and offers a great place for young anglers to learn how to fish. Fishing licenses are required, and the rules and regulations of the Virginia Department of Game & Inland Fisheries must be followed.In addition to three ponds, Gilley's...

Undoubtedly one of the most popular of Franklin's parks is Barrett�s Landing, located within walking distance from downtown Franklin. Have lunch in the gazebo overlooking the scenic Blackwater River. With a wharf and foot bridge around the water�s edge, Barrett�s Landing is a perfect setting for a brisk walk, fishing, or just sitting and enjoying the peace and quiet. Barrett�s Landing is also the site of a diverse offering of summer concerts....

The Nottoway is a scenic river, with a minimum of development that provides good fishing for a variety of species. It begins in Nottoway County and makes its way through Southampton County. It has a diverse fishery, ranging from bass (both large and smallmouth) and catfish to shad and herring. Panfishes include bluegill, sunfish, Roanoke bass, yellow perch, and black crappie. Quite a few fishermen say fishing the Nottoway is one of their favorite spots...