Time moves quickly, and suddenly, the Toad found himself with his TL in-laws, enjoying the camaraderie of those who have known each other through many a decade. The Toad doesn’t quite understand the rules that govern family ties, but he does appreciate the special relationships that family and long time TL friends seem to share. In the Toad World, things are simpler, less complicated – and far less enjoyable. ‘Nuff said. Mmmm hmmm.
Plans were made some months back to spend a long weekend visiting with this branch of the TL tribe, gathering at Douthat State Park – one of Virginia’s earliest parks, and clearly, one of its prized treasures. In evidence everywhere you’ll find the love and pride of place and purpose. Campgrounds (three, I believe) are clean and well maintained. There is a restaurant, two lodges, cabins to rent, playgrounds, day use areas, boating, hiking, biking, fishing. We took in several hikes which offered one or two little views:
We only began to explore Douthat’s extensive trail system, finding each part of the network offering something just a little different than the last. Here a waterfall, there a lake:
Long views, short views:
Trails that wander through mixed hardwood and evergreen forests, with many a water crossing! Don’t miss the hiking shelter up along the best overlook in the park:
As I said, we barely scratched the surface – and if the Toad has anything to say about it, we will definitely be back. This is definitely a destination, not just a stop over! And with any luck, more TL family will come for the fun as well!
Rollin' with a Road Toad 