Posted June 16, 2015 | Updated May 30, 2017

Virginia State Parks has so many terrific educational programs at our parks that we're confident you will be sure to learn something incredible, but maybe you shouldn't.

I know that is a bold statement that has never been said before on a park blog, I say, don't do any the programs and let nature be your guide.

With 37 Virginia State Parks to choose from it may be hard to get outside and see and do it all, so I compiled this list of 10 Things you'll want to see and do at Virginia State Parks with you in mind. I thoroughly enjoy all of these things, and know you will too:

We've got a sunrise with your name on it at Westmoreland State Park

1. Hike Iron Mine Trail at Fairy Stone State Park

This is not a super long hike or too strenuous. This hike will reward you with a nice view of the lake at Fairy Stone and some of the local mountain vistas. You can enjoy the hike year-round, find wildflower blooms and see plenty of wildlife. In the hot Summer time the trees will shade you as you hike up the trail.

2. Sit on the lake's edge and watch the sunset at Occoneechee State Park 

Each night at this beautiful lakeside state park you can enjoy breathtaking sunsets over the water. My secret sunset viewing location if you aren't in a boat, would be the marina - either of them, or the point behind cabin 13. There is a short trail to access it, and if there are guests at cabin 13 it would be polite to ask their permission.

3. Cook burgers outside at Douthat State Park

There is something extra juicy and delicious about cooking a burger outside over hot coals. I think Virginia State Parks knew this when they designed the three picnic areas at Douthat State Park to include charcoal grills, BYO charcoal and burgers and all the fixin's.

4. Hunt for fossils along the beach at York River State Park

The park itself has some fabulous interpreter led walks where as a group you find and identify fossils, but you can also do this on your own, at your own pace. Use a park trail map to help get your orientated. No digging implements are allowed, but you can use your fingers. 

5. Ride a bike along the rail trail that follows the river at New River Trail State Park

This is a flat riding surface so it's good for those who are not mountain biking junkies. You can ride through a tunnel or two, or over a small bridge, and cruise along as fly-fisherman cast into the rapids of the river. The scenery here is incredible.

6. Watch the coal trains go through the tunnel at Natural Tunnel State Park

You won't need to be a train buff to extremely enjoy the coal trains as they speed through this Virginia wonder. It's a long, but pretty hike down with plenty of stairs, or if it is available for your visit, you can also take the chair lift down, and more importantly and back up.

You'll find plenty of programs and events at Virginia State Parks, but this time I recommend you don't do any of them.

7. Take in the early morning cacophony at Kiptopeke State Park

If you go to the fishing pier early, as the sun rises you will find the waterfowl are quite rambunctious. Bring your camera with zoom lens for some wonderful still and wildlife shots, and keep your eyes open for dolphin. If you have a kayak this is a superb morning paddle.

8. Look down at the Appomattox River from the bridge deck at High Bridge Trail State Park

However you get to the bridge is up to you, as it is about .4 of a mile from the closest parking area (Camp Paradise lot in Rice, Va). You can walk, ride a bicycle built for two or even go via horseback. The best view of the river is about 3/4 across the bridge, there are also tours that take you below the bridge and more ways to meander down there near the river. Take pause in this unique and historical place.

9. There is a sunrise on the Potomac with your name on it at Westmoreland State Park

As the bald eagles soar over the bluffs above the river, you can watch the colors turn brilliant oranges and reds on the water as the sun greets the day. If staying the night, then cabin 24 has a sunrise view that will knock your socks off.

10. Culler's Overlook is worth a look at Shenandoah River State Park

Stand in awe on this viewing platform as you gaze upon the meandering Shenandoah River weaving its way toward the sea. Enjoy the scenic views of Massanutten Mountain to the west and Shenandoah National Park to the east. You can reach this from the parking lot nearby, no hiking is required.

We hope to see you outside soon at a Virginia State Park, click here for a map of all 37 state parks

Editor's note: Yes, the statement about skipping the park programs is tongue in cheek, of course we want you to enjoy our park programs as they are wonderful teachable moments, but sometimes spending time in nature without doing anything but just being there, is the most valuable teachable moment.

Posted June 16, 2015 | Updated May 30, 2017