Let's bundle up and hit the trails, there is so much to see this time of year at Virginia State Parks.

Beautiful Winter Berry at Caledon State Park

For those of you that follow my blog, you know that I am a cold weather wimp! Snow skiing or ice skating was never my thing. Give me a kayak on a warm day and I am happy! However, there is something I really like to do in winter. Take a walk in the woods get a little chilly and come back to a roaring fire, hot tea or other libations that will warm you down to your toes. There is something so serene about being in the forest in the winter, especially when there is a cover of white snow on the ground. Sounds travel clearer, it’s much easier to spy wildlife and birds, the smell of the earth and old leaves just brings back very happy childhood memories.

As a child I would spend hours exploring the forest near my house, sometimes by myself and sometimes with family and friends. Every time was an adventure. The woods were our kingdom. We were knights, ninjas and dragons. I was never ever a damsel in distress as I would ride my trusty steed Lollipop as swiftly as I could, flying by trees so fast I would have to duck to miss branches. Other times I would ride my bike jumping streams and cresting hills at break neck speeds.

The best times however, were when I was with my father. He was a wealth of information about edibles, wild plants and herbs. I just wish I had not been in such a hurry and had listened more closely to his erudition.

As I grew up, the woods turned from being my race track and dare devil course to a place of solace, just like it was for my father. I introduced a many young niece and nephew to camping, hiking and kayaking and just a long quiet walk in the woods.

On summer weekends my entire family (I have 7 brothers and sisters) would head out to enjoy what Virginia State Parks had to offer, and Fairy Stone State Park was one of our favorites. My huge family would make the trip up from North Carolina on a regular basis to swim, hike, and camp and canoe (no kayaks nearby in those days).

Leesylvania State Park becomes a living postcard in the snow

A frosty morning at Belle Isle State Park

Now that I am live in the Chesapeake Bay Area I get a chance to enjoy the woods at the amazing Virginia State Parks near me. The state parks in the Northern Neck offer a wide variety of trails for almost every level of experience including accessible. Belle Isle State Park on the Rappahannock River tends to be perfect for a long stroll or flat hike, there is also a bridle trail, and you can rent a bike or bring your own. Westmoreland State Park and Caledon State Park trails range from easy to challenging and roam through hardwood forests alongside the Potomac River. Lake Anna State Park has miles and miles of multi-use trails that you can even bring your horse or your bicycle. 

Leesylvania State Park and Mason Neck State Park, just a few hours away in Northern Virginia along the Potomac River, have beautiful meandering trails through forests and marshlands. Talk about serenity in the midst of the noise of NOVA! You might even see an eagle.

Low tide on the bay at Mason Neck State Park

What you should know before you go:

      This time of year some facilities are closed so be prepared to bring water and snacks and make sure to check with the park office about open restroom locations. Some parks offer snacks and drinks in their Visitor Center but not all parks do.

      If you are not familiar with the trails you can download a park trail map directly from each park's respective web page the map shows locations, length and level of difficulty, or use the app: Virginia State Parks Pocket Ranger app – detailed trail maps that may be cached before your trip and used even when there's no cell service.

      It's cooler in the woods and along the water so make sure to dress in layers and wear waterproof sturdy shoes. 

      Pets are welcome. Bring your dog, your cat (my kitties are laughing) or your iguana as long as they are on a leash, six feet or less and have proof of vaccinations. 

Snow covered trails at Westmoreland State Park

If it does snow or ice over, please call the park directly to see if the roads are open. Sometimes it takes a little while for staff to clear the interior roads of the park.

Making tracks on the trail at Lake Anna State Park

If you would like to get back to that blazing fire right after you hike the trails, Westmoreland State Park, Lake Anna State Park and Belle Isle State Park offer overnight accommodations complete with a fireplace. To find a Virginia State Park near you, please click here or call 800-933 PARK.