THE ADVENTURE COLLECTIVE® · Independent discovery and booking for outdoor travel
Virgin Islands National Park wilderness guide
National Park · VI

Virgin Islands National Park

Virgin Islands National Park is an idyllic destination on the island of St. John in the Caribbean, offering stunning beaches, lush hiking trails, and rich cultural history for outdoor enthusiasts.

National Park7,2594+ Trails

Designation

National Park

Total Wilderness Area

7,259

Elevation / Terrain

Diverse Wilderness

Field Editorial Guide

About Virgin Islands National Park

Virgin Islands National Park is an idyllic destination on the island of St. John in the Caribbean, offering stunning beaches, lush hiking trails, and rich cultural history for outdoor enthusiasts.

Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage

Situated on the island of St. John in the U.S. Virgin Islands, Virgin Islands National Park protects over 7,000 acres of tropical forest, beaches, and marine habitats. The park is renowned for its breathtaking beaches like Trunk Bay, where powdery white sands meet turquoise waters. It provides a haven for an array of wildlife, including sea turtles, reef fish, and birds. Visitors can explore over 20 trails ranging from easy to challenging, offering views of verdant hills and the Caribbean Sea. Historically, the park includes the ruins of sugar plantations dating back to the 18th century, providing insight into the island's colonial past. With opportunities for snorkeling, hiking, camping, and learning about its cultural heritage, Virgin Islands National Park is a retreat for adventurers and history buffs alike.

Field Guide · National Park
Adventure Destinations

Notable Destinations Near Virgin Islands National Park

Scenic viewpoints, outdoor landmarks, and notable points of interest within 30 miles.

Virgin Islands National Park★ 9.2⌖ 0 miSnorkeling
Virgin Islands National Park

Virgin Islands National Park

Explore Virgin Islands National Park on St. John for diverse marine life and stunning beaches. Perfect for snorkeling and hiking, this easy access landmark with trails like Reef Bay Trail offers history and natural beauty.

SnorkelingView Details→
Scenic Hiking Experience at Cinnamon Bay Trail, St. John, USVI★ 8.2⌖ 0 miHiking
Cinnamon Bay Trail

Scenic Hiking Experience at Cinnamon Bay Trail, St. John, USVI

Located on St. John, USVI, the Cinnamon Bay Trail offers a moderate hike through tropical forest to scenic Caribbean Sea views. Enjoy hiking, birding, snorkeling nearby, and camping options. Accessible year-round with shaded paths and well-marked trails near Cruz Bay.

Trunk Bay★ 9.2⌖ 1 miSnorkeling
Trunk Bay

Trunk Bay

Visit Trunk Bay in Virgin Islands National Park, featuring a famous snorkeling trail. Swim through coral reefs and enjoy beach relaxation. Accessible year-round, it gets busy in summer. Perfect for family-friendly outings and adventure seekers.

SnorkelingView Details→
A Coastal Gem: Saint John★ 8.5⌖ 1 miSnorkeling
Saint John

A Coastal Gem: Saint John

Explore Saint John, USVI, an adventure-friendly island famed for snorkeling, hiking, and kayaking. Enjoy the Virgin Islands National Park's lush beauty and serene beaches. Accessible by ferry, it's perfect for winter visits. Expect diverse marine life and historical landmarks.

SnorkelingView Details→
Scenic Hiking at Peace Hill Trail, St. John★ 8.4⌖ 2 miHiking
Peace Hill Trail

Scenic Hiking at Peace Hill Trail, St. John

Peace Hill Trail offers an easy 1.5-mile hike near St. John with lovely coastal views, shaded rest spots, and chances to see tropical birds and butterflies. Ideal for families and casual hikers looking for a quiet nature escape within Virgin Islands National Park.

Historic Ruins & Caribbean Nature at Annaberg Sugar Plantation★ 5.4⌖ 2 miHistorical Walking Tour
Annaberg Sugar Plantation

Historic Ruins & Caribbean Nature at Annaberg Sugar Plantation

Explore the historic 18th-century Annaberg Sugar Plantation ruins on St. John with a self-guided walking tour. Nearby snorkeling and hiking in Virgin Islands National Park offer moderate adventure set amid coastal beauty and tropical wildlife. Easy access by car, suitable for family visits year-round.

Historical Walking TourView Details→

Key Wilderness Highlights

✦ Trunk Bay's underwater snorkeling trail✦ The Annaberg Sugar Plantation ruins✦ Cinnamon Bay's serene beach and water activities✦ Reef Bay Trail leading to petroglyphs and waterfalls
Wilderness Recreation

Outdoor Adventures in Virgin Islands National Park

Explore curated guides for top outdoor sports, trail networks, and wilderness activities.

The Ranger Station

Visitor Logistics & Essential Planning

Everything you need to know about entrance passes, seasons, visitor centers, road transit, and wildlife safety in Virgin Islands National Park.

Passes & Fees

Entrance Requirements & Interagency Passes

There is a fee to access Trunk Bay; the rest of the park is free.

Wilderness Checklist

Carry paper topographic map & compass in remote zones.
Store all food and scented items in approved bear canisters.
Check wildfire / smoke advisories before backcountry departure.
Pack out everything you pack in (Leave No Trace).
Wilderness Stays

Camping & Overnight Stays in Virgin Islands National Park

Frontcountry developed campgrounds, backcountry wilderness permit guidelines, and starry-night camping advice.

Cinnamon Bay Campground

Located on the north shore, offering tent and cottage accommodation steps from the beach.

Adventure Basecamps

Gateway Towns Near Virgin Islands National Park

Stay, dine, and gear up in these mountain towns and scenic basecamps surrounding the park.

St John
⌖ 0.72 miles
Gateway Basecamp

St John, U.S. Virgin Islands

A pristine Caribbean island infused with raw natural beauty, where vibrant reefs, lush forests, and secluded beaches create a playground for outdoor enthusiasts.

December to AprilExplore Town
St. John
⌖ 0.72 miles
Gateway Basecamp

St. John, USVI

A tropical island paradise offering pristine beaches, lush trails, and vibrant coral reefs, perfect for diverse outdoor adventures in a laid-back Caribbean setting.

December to AprilExplore Town
Red Hook
⌖ 9.77 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Red Hook, Virgin Islands

A vibrant coastal town offering easy access to diverse water adventures and island exploration with a tropical, relaxed Caribbean atmosphere.

December to AprilExplore Town
Nadir
⌖ 9.77 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Nadir, U.S. Virgin Islands

A vibrant coastal village where Caribbean charm meets thrilling outdoor adventure amid lush hills and sapphire seas.

December to AprilExplore Town
Cruz Bay
⌖ 9.77 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Cruz Bay, Virgin Islands

A vibrant beach town offering a gateway to stunning Caribbean waters and tropical island exploration.

Winter and SpringExplore Town
Ruth
⌖ 9.77 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Ruth, U.S. Virgin Islands

A tranquil coastal village offering easy access to pristine beaches, coral reefs, and island trails, ideal for relaxed outdoor exploration and water adventures.

December to AprilExplore Town
Expert-Led Wilderness Expeditions

Guided Experiences in Virgin Islands National Park

Explore scenic backcountry routes and epic wilderness adventures with certified local mountain guides, naturalists, and outfitters.

12 bookable experiences

St. John Private Island Tour with Great Exploration ToursNazareth, St. Thomas · 0.61 mi away
On the Water· Great Exploration Tours

St. John Private Island Tour with Great Exploration Tours

Discover the Caribbean’s natural and historic marvels with a private tour of St. John’s highlights. From sugar plantations to Trunk Bay, this customizable adventure offers a unique way to experience the island. Learn why this guided tour is perfect for travelers seeking both discovery and relaxation in the U.S. Virgin Islands.

4–6 hours

Explore this trip

Availability, pricing, meeting details, and fulfillment are provided by the applicable operator or booking partner.