Everyone loves a day on the farm, and with many Virginia State Parks in the mountains, coast, near lakes, rivers or geological wonders, there is one park that stands out as a family favorite for farm life, and it sits smack dab on a real colonial farm.

It's time to visit Sky Meadows State Park, where you can learn about life on the farm. This Virginia State Park features the original homestead, a log cabin, wash house, ice house and even barns.

Sky Meadows State Park is less than 45 minutes from Northern Virginia, and two hours from Richmond, or coming up I-81 it is just 2 1/2 hours north of Roanoke. 

Plan to spend the entire day here, whether you are hiking, or attending a special event, this is a fantastic park to visit. Click here for a Google Map.

A Day on the Farm

Festivals and events can enhance the family experiences on the farm

Try your hand at fishing on the little Turner Pond (fishing regulations apply)

The major programs are seasonal, and begin in March and run through end of December. Special events include: The Delaplane Strawberry Festival, held on the weekend of Memorial Day weekend; the Great American Campout, annually on the fourth Saturday in June; and the Fall Farm Days, celebrated each weekend throughout the month of October.

There are also other special programs like:

• Winter Life of Civil War Soldiers
• Meet the Beekeepers
• Astronomy for Everyone
• Explorer Outposts

Click here to view the Events Database to search for other events, programs and activities at the beautiful Sky Meadows State Park.

Sky Meadows State Park is a great place to venture out for the day, with programs and activities, or hiking and exploring on your own. Pack a picnic and head on over to this 1,864-acre park with its scenic views, woodlands and rolling pastures to make fond memories that will last a lifetime.

Mount Bleak House

Mount Bleak House comes alive in the early springtime

Walk through history by touring historic Mount Bleak House at Sky Meadows State Park. Join a ranger or docent and hear the story of the many owners of this 1840's house and how they shaped the history of Sky Meadows. Experience these stories as you enjoy opportunities to sit in historic reproduction furniture. Tours are subject to ranger or docent availability, so please inquire at the Park's Visitor Center for a tour. You can call ahead at 540-592-3556 for more information.

Volunteer

A family of volunteers enjoy an ice cream break at a festival 

You may not realize that many of the folks you meet when you visit a Virginia State Park are volunteers. In fact we couldn't offer what we do to visitors without the help of these dedicated volunteers.

We also appreciate the time and effort from our volunteers to better manage our natural resources. Volunteers may come in all shapes and sizes, from retired couples who enjoy park beautification in our gardens, to event volunteers. As the saying goes "Many hands make light work," plus you get to have fun at a park, spending valuable time outside.

Whether you enjoy big red barns, festivals or hiking trails

When Virginia calls you should answer

If you are interested in learning more about volunteering at a park near you, or even while you vacation at one across the state, click here.

Overnight

Detailed camping information to help plan your next overnight visit to Sky Meadows State Park can be found here, or by calling 800-933-PARK.

See the first part of this series "Virginia Calling" from New River Trail State Park here.

Love is in the Fresh Air at Virginia State Parks