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5 Creeks in the Roanoke Area for Kids to Splash In!

Check out these five Roanoke hotspots where your kids can cool off

July 15, 2020

We are lucky to have so many great creeks and blue ways in the Roanoke Valley where kids can splash and play! 

Here are five of my family's favorite creeks in the Roanoke Region to visit. Don't see your family's favorite place to splash here? Drop me a note at bethbell@macaronikid.com and I'll add it to our list!

Put on a swimsuit, bring shoes good for creek walking, and don't forget snacks and sunscreen before heading out! And remember, always watch your kids in water — no matter how shallow it is!





Green Hill Park

The Roanoke River feels like a smaller creek as it runs along Green Hill Park in Glenvar.  You can truly make a day of it by taking a nice walk on the short, kid friendly trails, splashing in the creek, and picnicking or riding bikes.  

How to get there: 2501 Green Hill Park Rd, Salem, VA 24153






Fishburn Park

Fishburn Park offers a gentle creek, a fun playground and easy trails to explore and is a Roanoke parent's best kept secret. 

How to get there: 2304 Brambleton Ave SW, Roanoke, VA 24015, United States



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Stonebridge Park, Vinton, VA

Walk the Wolf Creek Greenway and play at Stonebridge Park in Vinton, VA. If the water is crowded by the bridge, you can take the trail to the right to another creek opening to play in.

How to get there: 420 Swan Drive, Vinton, VA 24179



photo credit: Back Country Ski & Sports


Rotary Park, Roanoke River Greenway, Salem VA

Many families are enjoying the water at Rotary Park this summer. I share this spot with caution. This portion of the River gets very high after rains, please always use a life jacket with small children and don't take your eyes off of them.  There's no hike, it's easy to park right at the river. 

How to get there: 1705 electric rd



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Fenwick Mines Day Use Area

Fenwick Mines is a short drive out of Roanoke to New Castle, VA.  A one mile, wheelchair accessible trail will lead you through wetland, stream, and forest habitats providing lots of opportunities to see wildlife.  The base of the waterfalls offers a fantastic place to splash and play! 

How to get there: 

From New Castle, VA: Follow VA 615 for 5 miles to VA 611 (Peaceful Valley Rd). Turn left. Go 1/2 mile and turn right on VA 685. Follow signs to Fenwick Mines Recreation Area.

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