Virginia State Parks wants to know, what is your style?

Are you a beginner in the great outdoors or a seasoned veteran? Are you a solo park visitor, a blended or extended family, a couple, a mother-daughter team? Whatever style you opt for, we have designed our 36 parks with you in mind.

Where to go in Virginia for the the best outdoor experiences 

If you like trail rides

Rent a horse and get a free guide at New River Trail State Park

New River Trail State Park has 39 miles of trail for biking and hiking, and they have Foster Falls Livery where you can enjoy a guided trail ride at the park. You can also bring your own horse to use the trails. The Livery service is available April through October (closed Tuesdays and Wednesdays), call (276) 699-2460 for rates and reservations.

If you prefer upscale lodging

Potomac River Retreat has 5 bedrooms and is walking distance to the park's pool

Take a look at the beautiful Westmoreland State Park on the Potomac River. The Potomac River Retreat offers waterfront views, 2 kitchens, sleeps 16 and has plenty of space with access to the great outdoors just steps away, learn more here.

If you prefer to rough it

Powhatan State Park's rustic canoe-in campground

Powhatan State Park offers diverse wildlife habitat, and a unique way to see it from the water, with a car top boat slide to access the James River. This park has no cabins, but does have a canoe-in primitive campground that is open year-round. There is a toilet, but no bathhouse, so you really can rough it in the great outdoors. Learn more here.

If you want to put the pedal to the metal

Renting paddleboats at Hungry Mother State Park is a great way to see the lake

Paddleboats are a fun way to get out on the water and spend time together, and of course powered by sheer enthusiasm. Some of the paddleboats at Hungry Mother State Park have a roof to protect you from the hot sun. There are no gasoline-powered boats allowed at this lake. Enjoy the swimming beach, SUP and kayak/canoe rentals as well. You can learn more about Hungry Mother State Park's recreation here.

If you like family programs 

Events and special programs are offered at our parks for the whole family

Pocahontas State Park is located just 20 miles outside of Richmond Virginia and offers plenty of family programs and events. Search our events database here to find what is happening at this, or any park you choose from now until the end of the year.

If you dig geology

This naturally formed cave is used as a railroad tunnel at Natural Tunnel State Park

When you access the base of this tunnel at Natural Tunnel State Park you can watch the trains as they pass through the limestone that was carved out over thousands of years in these Appalachians. There is a seasonal chair lift that can take you down to this spot or back up again. There are caving tours where you can experience unique rock formations such as stalactites and stalagmites and walk the rim of a waterfall.

We've got you covered 

For 80 years Virginia State Parks has invited you outside to play, and you now have 36 parks to choose from so there is no excuse to stay inside. Keep an eye on our blog for part 2 of this series where we will explore more great outdoor experiences in Virginia.

FIND YOUR PARK