Residents and stakeholders will have the chance to influence the development of Mayo River State Park during a public meeting on December 16. Hosted by the Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR), the session will take place from 6 to 8 p.m. in the Lester Banquet Hall at the Spencer-Penn Centre, 475 Spencer Penn Road, Spencer.
The meeting aims to gather input for the park’s master plan, a critical document that will guide the park’s development, conservation, and recreational offerings over the next 30 years.
A Collaborative Vision for Mayo River State Park
Mayo River State Park, located in southwestern Henry County along the Virginia-North Carolina border, spans 637 acres, including the confluence of the North and South Mayo Rivers. The park complements North Carolina’s Mayo River State Park, which extends 16 miles downstream.
“The master plan defines the park’s purpose, goals, and objectives and provides direction for construction, expansion, and operations,” the DCR states on its website. The planning process integrates public input, resource assessments, market studies, and business development strategies to ensure the park meets both community and visitor needs.
A dedicated Advisory Committee is working closely with the DCR to ensure the master plan reflects diverse perspectives. The committee includes representatives from organizations such as the Dan River Basin Association (DRBA), Henry County government, the Martinsville-Henry County Chamber of Commerce, the Southwestern Piedmont Master Naturalists, the Sappony Tribe, the Monacan Indian Nation, and local civic groups.
“The Advisory Committee is involved at every stage of the master planning process, meeting three times to review and share ideas about park goals, programming, site design, and overall planning,” the DCR states.
Henry County Administrator Dale Wagoner emphasized the importance of community participation.
“Mayo River State Park will bring so much to the area—outdoor adventures, chances to learn about nature, and a real boost for tourism and our local economy,” Wagoner said. “The meeting on December 16 is a chance for everyone to have a voice in shaping this park for the future. I hope folks will come out and share their ideas—it’s going to be an exciting step forward for our county.”
Those unable to attend can stay informed and provide feedback through the DCR website or email.
Mayo River State Park boasts several unique features:
- Size and Location: Spanning 637 acres, the park is nestled in the scenic landscape of Henry County with elevations ranging from 710 to 965 feet.
- Historical Roots: Once home to the Sappony Native American tribes, the area contains archaeological evidence of villages from 1000-1450. The park’s name honors surveyor William Mayo, who helped map the Virginia-North Carolina border in the early 1700s.
Scenic Rivers: Portions of the North and South Mayo Rivers were designated as Virginia Scenic Rivers in 2008, recognizing their ecological and recreational value.- Trail System: Dedicated on Earth Day 2022, the park’s trails provide visitors with opportunities to explore its natural beauty.
- Regional Collaboration: Sharing a border with North Carolina’s Mayo River State Park allows for cross-state initiatives and resource sharing.
The DCR aims to complete the park’s master plan by fall 2026, setting a clear roadmap for its development. Public participation at meetings like the one on December 16 ensures the park reflects the values and needs of the community.
For more information about the meeting or Mayo River State Park, visit www.mayoriverspmasterplanva.com or email PlanningResources@dcr.virginia.gov.
