The Great American Campout is Saturday, June 25
Find out about campouts and special programs here

Camping with friends at Pocahontas State Park

We had several family camping trips when I was growing up. My favorite part was sleeping under a tent and listening to all the night noises. There were sounds I didn't even hear when I slept with the windows open. I like it so much that many summer nights I would make a tent using blankets and a clothes line and sleep in the backyard.

Campers gather for a night hike at First Landing State Park

Virginia State Parks joins the National Wildlife Federation in their goal to introduce more people to camping and having fun in the outdoors. For the Great American Campout all of our parks with campgrounds and some of our day use parks are offering campouts. All of our parks are offering special programming geared to introduce novices to camping and outdoor skills yet still fun if you have been camping for years.

A family enjoys a campfire meal at Twin Lakes State Park

If you have never camped before, choose one of the campouts that provide camping equipment and will help you with everything from pitching a tent to making a campfire. If you have camped for years, come out to meet some of these new campers and talk about your adventures camping around the campfire. If you are not quire ready for an overnight experience come out for the day and participate in the many programs offered. You can find a complete list of programs and campouts here.

Camping at Bear Creek Lake State Park

Don't forget about our Get Outdoors! Challenge. Visit five different parks between May 21 and June 30, 2016 and earn an annual pass. Find out more here.