APPOMATTOX BUCKINGHAM STATE FOREST
APPOMATTOX BUCKINGHAM STATE FOREST
The 19,535 acre Appomattox-Buckingham State Forest, located in the piedmont of Virginia, is 40 miles east of Lynchburg, 60 miles south of Charlottesville, and 20 miles north of Farmville. Recreational opportunities at the park include hiking, canoeing, camping, horseback riding, and fishing to name just a few.
1. Early Settlement: The area that is now Appomattox Buckingham State Forest was initially settled by European colonists in the early 1800s. The land was primarily used for agriculture, including tobacco and other crops.
2. Civil War: The forest is located near the Appomattox Court House, which is famous for being the site of General Robert E. Lee's surrender to General Ulysses S. Grant, effectively ending the American Civil War on April 9, 1865. The surrounding area witnessed several clashes and skirmishes during the war.
3. Industrialization: In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, the region experienced increased industrialization. Lumber mills and mines were established in the area, exploiting the natural resources of the forest.
4. Establishment of Forest Reserve: In the 1930s, the Virginia State Conservation Commission recognized the need for reforestation efforts to combat soil erosion and protect the water quality of the Appomattox River. With this in mind, the state began acquiring land, including the area now known as Appomattox Buckingham State Forest.
5. Development and Expansion: Over the years, the state forest has expanded through additional land acquisitions and modern forest-management practices. Today, it encompasses about 19,000 acres of diverse forest ecosystems.
6. Conservation Efforts: The forest management practices focus on sustainable timber harvesting, wildlife habitat conservation, and recreational opportunities for visitors. Some areas of the forest have been designated for specific uses such as hunting, camping, and hiking.
7. Wildlife and Recreation: Appomattox Buckingham State Forest is home to various wildlife species, including whitetail deer, wild turkey, squirrel, rabbit, and a variety of bird species. The forest offers opportunities for outdoor activities like hiking, hunting, fishing, and birdwatching.