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.

Solar Eclipse at Sky Meadows

Location of Sky Meadows State Park in Virginia

Where

Sky Meadows State Park, 11012 Edmonds Ln., Delaplane, VA 20144.
Historic Area

When

April 8, 2024. 1:00 p.m. - 4:30 p.m.

It's a bird, it's a plane, it's a solar eclipse! Join Park Rangers as we view this awe-inspiring celestial event as the moon passes over the sun, with 89% totality. This rare occurrence will cast a shadow across North America, and our park provides an ideal vantage point to witness this cosmic spectacle. Join members of the Northern Virginia Astronomy Club and NASA Jet Propulsion Lab Ambassadors to safely observe the sun through telescopes equipped with solar filters. Explore celestial mechanics and the science behind this remarkable event with various activities prior to the eclipse.

Additional Information:
The start time for the eclipse will vary by location. For Fauquier County, VA it will begin at 2:01 p.m. peak at 3:19 p.m., and end at 4:33 p.m.

Solar eclipses should not be viewed directly with the human eye. Safety glasses will be available for $1 (plus tax) inside the park's Visitor Center.

Know before you go and plan your visit to avoid congestion when entering the park. To expedite your payment process, we encourage you to pay ahead online. The confirmation code must be presented at the gate. To learn more about the Virginia State Park Annual Pass visit our website.

Elderly gentleman, wearing solar lenses, looks up to view a solar eclipse.

Other details

Standard parking or admission fee applies: Yes.
Extra fee: No.
Children welcome: Yes.
Phone: 540-592-3556
Email Address: SkyMeadows@dcr.virginia.gov