Buena Vista is the home of Glen Maury Park, a 315-acre camping/recreational park owned and operated by the city. The park includes several picnic shelters, tennis courts, an outdoor roller skating rink, nature trails, ball fields, an Olympic size swimming pool, a wading pool, river fishing, and special events throughout the year.  The City also has a number of "Neighborhood Parks" throughout the City.

Additional recreational opportunities are sponsored by civic and social organizations, including schools, churches, 4-H Club and community groups.

Buena Vista is surrounded by portions of the Jefferson and George Washington National Forest which offer numerous outdoor recreational opportunities. Canoeing on the James and Maury Rivers is also very popular.