Listing correction
Bullpasture Gorge: Swimming Prohibited
Highland Wildlife Management Area, VA
Do not swim here
DWR prohibits swimming on WMAs unless otherwise posted. No official swimming exception has been confirmed for this access. DWR lists the Bullpasture suspension footbridge as closed until further notice because structural deterioration made it unsafe. Do not cross the bridge or improvise a river crossing to reach the former swim spot. For permitted land-based visits, check current access notices. Visitors age 17 and older need a qualifying Virginia license, boat registration or access permit; that credential does not authorize swimming.
We previously described this location as a swimming spot. That recommendation was incorrect. We have removed it from our swimming recommendations, directory results, and swimming maps. This page remains available to correct that information for anyone following an older link.
Do not treat older directions, photographs, or reports of people swimming as permission to enter the water. Check the managing authority's current notices and obey all posted access restrictions, including any park or trail closures.
Bullpasture Gorge: swimming restriction and bridge closure
This Highland County listing is retained to correct older swimming directions. Do not plan a swim at the Highland Wildlife Management Area access or follow the former route across its suspension footbridge.
Swimming is not an authorized activity here
DWR's general WMA rules prohibit swimming unless a site is posted to allow it. We have not found an official exception for this access. An old trip report, rope swing or photograph of swimmers is not permission. Follow posted restrictions and choose a designated swimming destination instead.
The suspension footbridge is closed
At our September 26, 2026 review, DWR listed the bridge over the Bullpasture River as closed until further notice because structural deterioration made it unsafe. Our earlier directions to cross it were outdated. Do not cross the bridge or improvise a river crossing to reach the former swim spot.
Planning a permitted land-based visit
Highland WMA offers wildlife viewing, hiking and regulated fishing and hunting. Check the official map, current closures and access credentials before visiting. DWR's rules require visitors age 17 and older to hold a qualifying Virginia license, boat registration or access permit. A permit does not override the swimming restriction or bridge closure.
Use the Highland WMA page for current notices and maps, and the WMA rules for permitted activities. The Bullpasture site page lists seasonal gate restrictions and DWR's regional contact, 540-248-9360. Our former coordinates were approximate and are not retained as a navigation point. Reviewed September 26, 2026.
Visitor questions
Can I swim at the Bullpasture Gorge WMA access?
DWR prohibits WMA swimming unless otherwise posted. No official exception has been confirmed for this access. Do not treat old swimming reports as permission.
Can I cross the suspension footbridge?
No. DWR lists it as closed until further notice because it is unsafe. Do not cross it or improvise a river crossing to reach the former swim spot.
Is visiting Highland WMA free without a permit?
DWR requires visitors age 17 and older to hold a qualifying Virginia license, boat registration or access permit. Check current requirements for your planned activity.
Official sources
Rules checked: