Open fires are prohibited throughout the park from midnight to 4 p.m. through April 30 per the 4 p.m. Burning Law. This includes wood and charcoal. Gas is permissible. Campground fires are allowed during the restricted time if a camp host is on duty and signage to that effect is posted in the campground. Failure to observe the 4 p.m. Burning Law can result in a fine. Contact the Park Office for additional information.
What's happening this month in Virginia State Parks
April
As April arrives, the weather starts to warm up and many events are taking place. You can visit a park to witness the blooming wildflowers in the daytime or to observe the stars at night, as April is Dark Sky Month. Four parks have been designated for stargazing. On April 8th, a solar eclipse is happening. You can view it from a park and learn how to view the eclipse safely. You can also enjoy fishing by casting your line from the shore or a watercraft. Additionally, you can take a hike, have a picnic, and mark Earth Day on April 22. A new program called Let's Go Adventures is being offered, and National Volunteer Week is observed during April 21-27. You can participate in park events to do your part.
Events sampler:
April 2-May 31, 2024
Southwest Virginia Museum
In its 27th season, this annual quilt show exhibit honors both past and present quilters and features quilts from the Museum's collection and from members of the community who display quilts from their own collections.
April 4, 2024. 5:30-7:30 p.m.
New River Trail State Park - Austinville Access
This time of year is a great chance to catch the Eastern Redbud trees in bloom. This is an intermediate ride for cyclists of all skill levels. Gravel or road tires work on New River Trail. The ranger-led bike meet-up will meet at the Austinville Parking Area.
April 6, 2024. 10 a.m.-4 p.m.
Machicomoco State Park
Exploring Gloucester during the Daffodil Festival? Then visit the Timberneck House, a late 18th-century home owned by the Catlett family for generations until the early 20th century.
April 6, 2024. 11 a.m.-3 p.m.
Sky Meadows State Park
Eggs are popping up all over Sky Meadows State Park! Celebrate spring with a day of egg-citing family activities. Discover some of the park’s oviparous (egg-laying) creatures at five fun stations.
April 6, 2024. 10 a.m.-3 p.m.
Kiptopeke State Park
Have you ever seen a WWII Concrete Ship? Why were they built? What are they doing in the waters of the Chesapeake Bay? Join Kiptopeke State Park as we travel through history and celebrate 75 years of the Concrete Fleet. Learn about the history of the Concrete Fleet and why Kiptopeke State Park is home to 9 of them.
April 6, 2024. 9 a.m.-12 p.m.
Natural Bridge State Park
Calling all young anglers; kids 12 and younger get free admission and can fish for free during this annual event. Cedar Creek, which runs under the Natural Bridge, will be stocked with rainbow trout.
April 6 & 7, 2024. 12-1 p.m. and 2-3 p.m.
High Bridge Trail State Park
During the final stages of the Civil War, General Robert E. Lee and his army faced relentless pressure from Federal troops as they attempted to reach supplies at Farmville, Virginia. The key obstacle in their path was the High Bridge, spanning the Appomattox River and crucial for their access to much-needed provisions. As part of the commemoration of the 159th anniversary of the battles at High Bridge, park staff will offer programs specifically tailored to the events that took place on those crucial days.
April 6-7, 2024. 9-11 a.m. and 1-3 p.m.
Sailor's Creek Battlefield State Park
As part of the commemoration of the 159th anniversary of the battles at Sailor's Creek, four ranger-led bus tours covering the route of Confederate General Robert E. Lee's retreat through Ameila County will be offered during the weekend of April 6th and 7th.
April 6 & 19, 2024. 8-9 p.m.
Claytor Lake State Park
Take a stroll along our lake shore as you visit several mesmerizing lights that have been placed in or along the lake. Animals of all sizes and varieties may be drawn to the lights.
April 13, 2024. 10 a.m.-4 p.m.
Shenandoah River State Park
Celebrate the beauty of spring at Shenandoah River State Park! Each April, Virginia Bluebells blossom along our winding riverbank, creating a beautiful carpet of blue and purple hues.
April 13, 2024. 2:30-3:30 p.m.
Widewater State Park
Get ready to encounter a captivating array of non-venomous snakes from around the world, as well as our native species. Led by a knowledgeable park ranger and herpetologist specializing in snakes and their behavior, this program offers a unique opportunity to learn about these incredible creatures up close.
April 14, 2024. 3-5 p.m.
Seven Bends State Park
Have you ever wondered how to eat an acorn? Whether those berries along the trail are tasty or toxic? Why anyone would be glad to see a dandelion? Find out in this foraging class at Seven Bends State Park.
April 20, 2024. 5-10 p.m.
Sky Meadows State Park
Experience the magic of an unforgettable evening this Earth Day under the moonlight at Stars and Guitars. Gather your loved ones, pack your blankets, and immerse yourself in a night of music, food and wonder at Sky Meadows State Park. Enjoy the enchanting melodies of live performances by talented local artists. From soothing ballads to foot-tapping tunes, our line up promises to captivate audiences of all ages. Then delve into the wonders of outer space with rangers and spark curiosity in our International Dark Sky Park.
April 20, 2024 2-3 p.m.
Natural Tunnel State Park
Randy Smith was a beloved volunteer of the park, lifelong educator, mentor, birder, and lover of “life’s extras.” Join us in remembering Randy as we add a memorial plaque dedicated to his hard work and time spent as a Natural Tunnel volunteer and as one of “life’s extras” for so many people.
April 27, 2024. 1-3 p.m.
Chippokes State Park
A Garden Tea is being sponsored by the Friends of Chippokes at the Jones - Stewart Mansion. Guests can enjoy sweet and savory treats, as well as several types of tea, on the Jones-Stewart Mansion's side porch.
Various days throughout April. 9 a.m.-1 p.m.
False Cape State Park
Experience Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge and False Cape State Park on a 4-hour guided tour! Spot wildlife on the Blue Goose Tram and uncover the history of this spectacular area. In addition, hike through pristine maritime forest to the historic Wash Woods church and cemetery.
- Birding events - from morning bird walks to presentations by Master Naturalists - something for every birder
- Fishing events - April is an excellent month for fishing and there are many events for beginners to the most experienced anglers
- Astronomy and Stargazing events - events popular at parks where the skies are the darkest in Virginia
