How to Send Messages to Inmates

You can use your phone or computer to send emails, letters, and photos to an inmate. Messages are sent electronically to inmate tablets or kiosks at the facility. If you would like to send a message, start by searching for an inmate at Wallens Ridge State Prison.

Sending Photos and Postcards

A great way to send love and support to a loved one at Wallens Ridge State Prison is to send photos and postcards. It only takes a few minutes to send photos from your phone and it makes a huge difference. You can also mail postcards with words of support and inspiration, or design your own postcard for special moments like birthdays and holidays.

Important! Be sure not to send any explicit photos or they may not be approved by the facility. You can also use a photo printing app like Penmate to make sure your photos are printed at the correct size (4x6 or 3x5) and are mailed according to the rules and regulations of Wallens Ridge State Prison.

Frequently asked questions about Wallens Ridge State Prison

1. How long does it take to deliver a message?

   If you're sending an email message your letter is usually delivered within 24-48 hours. For messages sent via mail you should expect delivery within 3-7 days. All messages will need be approved by Wallens Ridge State Prison.

2. How much does it cost to send a message to Wallens Ridge State Prison?

   You can send a message free using your phone or mail a message via USPS for the price of a $0.60 stamp and envelope. You can also purchase credits or e-stamps from services starting at $1.99.

3. What services can I use to contact an inmate at Wallens Ridge State Prison?

   Penmate

   You can use Penmate to send letters and photos to an inmate from your phone. It's an easy way to stay in touch during your loved one's incarceration. Use the inmate locator to find an inmate's location and contact information, then you can send messages within a few minutes.

   Securus messaging

   Securus may be another option for communicating with an inmate at Wallens Ridge State Prison. You can create a friends and family account and purchase credits to send messages. All messages will be reviewed and must be approved by the facility.

   JPay

   Some county jails and state prisons may support sending messages with JPay. You must register an account with the system, find your loved one, and purchase stamps to send messages. For some locations you can also attach photos.

   Smart Jail Mail

   You may also check if Smart Jail Mail is available at Wallens Ridge State Prison. Smart Jail Mail is operated by Smart Communications and has contracted with some state and county jails. After purchasing credits, your messages and photos are sent to the facility, printed out, and then handed out to your loved one.

4. What is the mailing address of Wallens Ridge State Prison?

   Mailing address:

   Wallens Ridge State Prison
   1052 Dogwood Dr
   Big Stone Gap, VA 24219
   Phone: (276) 523-3310

   Business hours:

   • Monday: Open 24 hours
   • Tuesday: Open 24 hours
   • Wednesday: Open 24 hours
   • Thursday: Open 24 hours
   • Friday: Open 24 hours
   • Saturday: Open 24 hours
   • Sunday: Open 24 hours

5. What are the visiting hours at Wallens Ridge State Prison?

   Visiting hours at Wallens Ridge State Prison vary by housing unit and security level. Generally, visits are scheduled on weekends and holidays, with some facilities offering weekday visits. Contact the facility directly at (276) 523-3310 or check their website for the current visiting schedule. Visits typically last 30-60 minutes and must be scheduled in advance.

6. What items are prohibited when sending mail to Wallens Ridge State Prison?

   Prohibited items typically include: cash, personal checks, stamps, stickers, glitter, glue, tape, staples, paperclips, polaroid photos, musical or blank greeting cards, hardcover books, magazines with staples, and any items containing metal or electronics. Only send letters on plain white paper with blue or black ink. Photos must be printed on regular photo paper (no Polaroids). Always check with Wallens Ridge State Prison for their specific mail policies.

7. How do I send money to an inmate at Wallens Ridge State Prison?

   You can send money to an inmate at Wallens Ridge State Prison through several methods: 1) Online using JPay, Access Corrections, or the facility's approved vendor, 2) Money orders mailed directly to the facility with the inmate's name and ID number, 3) Kiosks located in the facility lobby, or 4) Over the phone using a credit or debit card. Fees vary by method, typically ranging from $2.95 to $11.95 per transaction.

8. Can I schedule a video visit with an inmate at Wallens Ridge State Prison?

   Many facilities now offer video visitation as an alternative to in-person visits. At Wallens Ridge State Prison, video visits may be available through services like Penmate, Securus Video Connect, GTL, or ICSolutions. Video visits typically cost $10-20 for 20-30 minutes and must be scheduled in advance. You'll need a computer or smartphone with a camera and reliable internet connection. Contact the facility for their specific video visitation policies and approved vendors.

9. What identification do I need to visit an inmate at Wallens Ridge State Prison?

   All visitors must present valid government-issued photo identification such as a driver's license, state ID, passport, or military ID. Minors must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian who can provide the minor's birth certificate. Some facilities require visitors to be on the inmate's approved visitation list, which may require a background check. Contact Wallens Ridge State Prison for specific ID requirements and visitor approval procedures.

10. How can I find out an inmate's release date?

    To find an inmate's release date at Wallens Ridge State Prison, you can: 1) Use the online inmate search tool if available, 2) Call the facility's records department, 3) Contact the inmate's case manager or counselor, or 4) Have the inmate provide this information during a call or visit. For privacy reasons, some facilities only release this information to immediate family members.

Programs & Services

As a supermax facility within the Virginia Department of Corrections system, Wallens Ridge State Prison operates under highly controlled conditions that shape how programs and services are delivered to its population. Given the facility’s security classification and specialized housing requirements, programming typically focuses on maintaining safety while providing essential services that may include basic educational opportunities, mental health support, and limited vocational training adapted to the restrictive environment.

The facility may offer educational programs such as adult basic education and GED preparation, though these services are often delivered through individualized instruction methods due to security protocols. Mental health and counseling services are typically available, which may include individual therapy sessions, crisis intervention, and specialized treatment programs for inmates with psychological needs. Religious services and chaplaincy programs are commonly provided, often through individual meetings or small group sessions that comply with the facility’s security requirements.

Additional support services at Wallens Ridge may include medical care through the Virginia Department of Corrections healthcare system, limited library services delivered to housing units, and basic recreational activities within secure areas. The facility typically maintains communication services allowing inmates to stay connected with family members through monitored phone calls and correspondence. Given the supermax classification, many traditional group programs found in lower-security facilities may be modified or unavailable, with services instead delivered through secure, individualized methods that prioritize safety while addressing basic rehabilitative and support needs.

Daily Life & Visitation

As a level 5 supermax facility in Big Stone Gap, Virginia, Wallens Ridge State Prison operates under highly structured security protocols that shape every aspect of an inmate’s day. The facility, which opened in April 1999 and houses approximately many individuals, maintains strict schedules and limited movement throughout its secure housing units. Inmates typically spend the majority of their time in individual cells, with carefully supervised periods for meals, recreation, and essential services.

The prison’s supermax classification means that daily routines often include extended periods of isolation, with inmates receiving meals through secure food slots and having limited interaction with staff and other inmates. Recreation time, when available, typically occurs in small, secure outdoor areas or indoor recreation spaces under close supervision. Educational and vocational programs may be offered through secure methods, though the extent and availability of such programs can vary based on security considerations and individual inmate classifications.

Family connections remain important despite the facility’s high security level, with visitation policies typically allowing for scheduled visits under strict supervision. Communication with family members generally occurs through monitored phone calls and written correspondence, subject to security screening procedures. The Virginia Department of Corrections may also provide video visitation options, allowing families to maintain contact while adhering to the facility’s security requirements. Mental health and medical services are provided on-site, with staff working to address the comprehensive challenges that can arise in a supermax environment.