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.

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Trade City Lights for Starry Nights

By Pat EastwoodPosted March 05, 2015

At Staunton River State Park, the skies are very dark. Because the skies are here are darker than most any place around, visitors are able to get a spectacular view of the night sky. Each spring and fall the park hosts the Staunton River Star Party, which brings astronomers from far and wide to gather for several nights of viewing.

Stargazers enjoy viewing the night sky at Staunton River State Park

STAR PARTY DETAILS

Join members of the Chapel Hill Astronomical and Observational Society for the spring Star Party March 19 - 22, 2015. Astronomers registered for the star party can peruse vendors' offerings, learn from guest speakers and presentations, and take advantage of the area's exceptionally dark night skies. Check-in begins at noon on March 19, and the Star Party continues until noon on March 22. Registration fees required.

What should you expect at the Star Party? For a first person perspective from a participant, plus some great photos, click here.

For more information and to register for the full star party, click here.

The Staunton River Star Party takes place in a large field with a low horizon

PUBLIC VIEWING NIGHT

Each Saturday night of the star party, the event is free and open to the public. For the spring 2015 star party this will be March 21 from 8 to 11 p.m. Mingle with amateur astronomers to learn about and view planets, stars, nebulae and galaxies. Dress for the weather and bring a flashlight, preferably one with a red lens. (Red cellophane will be provided for those who don't have a red lens.)

CHAOS donated telescopes for loan to park guests

OTHER VIEWING OPPORTUNITIES

Can't make it to the star party? No worries, you can still take advantage of other stargazing opportunities here at Staunton River State Park.

Thanks to the good folks from CHAOS, Staunton River State Park now has telescopes available for loan to guests. Also, members of CHAOS offer stargazing programs throughout the summer for park visitors. For more information on these programs dates, and times, you may contact the park at 434-572-4623, or email stauntonriver@dcr.virginia.gov. Or check the park's events listings here.

LOCATION

Staunton River State Park is located in Southern Virginia's Halifax County, about 2 hours Southeast of Richmond. For overnight reservations click here, or call 800-933-PARK (7275).

Isn't it time for you to get out of town?

You'll be amazed by what you can see in a really dark sky

PARKS

Staunton River State Park