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Carvins Cove Natural Reserve - Sporting Facilities & Venues

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Carvins Cove Natural Reserve, located in Roanoke, VA, is a premier venue for cross-country races, equestrian events, and outdoor sporting competitions. This expansive public park covers over 12,000 acres and offers a diverse range of terrain perfect for athletic events, training camps, and multi-sport competitions. The reserve is renowned for its challenging cross-country course, designed to accommodate cross-country races, competitive training, and multi-terrain athletic events. Featuring wooded trails, rolling hills, and open fields, it is an ideal location for cross-country meets, endurance races, and athletic competitions that test athletes' skills and stamina across varying terrains.

As one of the top equestrian sports venues in the region, Carvins Cove provides extensive facilities for equestrian competitions, trail riding, and riding camps. The reserve’s expansive terrain includes wooded trails and open fields, creating the perfect backdrop for endurance riding, dressage, show jumping, and equestrian trail rides. The natural landscape offers a versatile environment for both casual riders and competitive equestrian events, making it an excellent location for equestrian festivals, horseback riding competitions, and outdoor equestrian camps.

In addition to its primary focus on cross-country and equestrian events, Carvins Cove is a fantastic venue for community athletic activities, including fun runs, team-building events, and outdoor festivals. The half-mile paved walking track is ideal for community races, charity runs, and family-friendly events, while the park’s wide-open spaces and scenic views provide the perfect setting for gatherings of all sizes. Carvins Cove Natural Reserve is an ideal location for organizers seeking a scenic sports venue that combines nature, outdoor adventure, and athletic competition.

Conveniently located just minutes from downtown Roanoke, Carvins Cove offers easy access to Roanoke VA, the Blue Ridge Parkway, and nearby accommodations, making it an accessible destination for both local and out-of-town athletes. Whether you're hosting a cross-country event, equestrian competition, or multi-sport tournament, Carvins Cove Natural Reserve offers a world-class venue with natural beauty and excellent amenities for a variety of outdoor athletic activities.

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Directions
Sports Facilities
Recreation
Directions
  • Directions: Directions to Boat Landing:

    From I-81, take exit 146 and take Plantation Rd. south to the first traffic light. Turn left on Rt. 11 and continue approximately 1/2 mile, past the entrance to Hollins College. Turn left on Reservoir Rd. and continue approximately 2.5 miles to the end of the road and the parking area.
General Facility Information
  • Additional Information: Available for hiking, biking, fishing, kayaking
Recreation
  • Additional Information: Carvins Cove features multiple trails - including some that connect to the Appalachian Trail. A $2 parking pass is required for entering Carvins Cove and can be purchased at the boat landing or the Just the Right Gear bike shop.
  • Friday Hours: 8:30am-6:30pm (10/1-3/31)
  • Monday Hours: 8:30am-6:30pm (10/1-3/31)
  • Restrooms:
  • Saturday Hours: 8:30am-6:30pm (10/1-3/31)
  • Sports: Hiking, Biking, Boating, Fishing, Horseback Riding
  • Sunday Hours: 8:30am-6:30pm (10/1-3/31)
  • Thursday Hours: 8:30am-6:30pm (10/1-3/31)
  • Tuesday Hours: 8:30am-6:30pm (10/1-3/31)
  • Wednesday Hours: 8:30am-6:30pm (10/1-3/31)