Department of Conservation and Recreation
Conserve. Protect. Enjoy.
Department of Conservation and Recreation
Due to the expected impact of the winter storm, all Virginia State Park overnight facilities will be closed from Friday, Jan. 23 through Tuesday, Jan. 27. This decision is based on the forecast for unsafe conditions and potential power outages. For updates click here.
Media inquiries: Please contact Dave Neudeck, dave.neudeck@dcr.virginia.gov, 804-786-5053.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Date: November 19, 2018
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Opt Outside at a Virginia State Park Thanksgiving weekend
For the eighth year running, Virginia State Parks will sponsor #OptOutside to encourage people to forego indoor activities, such as shopping on Black Friday, and "opt outside" instead. The campaign will run from Nov. 22 through Nov. 25.
A photo contest, with a $500 gift certificate top prize, is the main piece of the campaign. To qualify, photos must be taken at a Virginia state park between Nov. 22 and 25. Individuals may submit up to five photos; contest details and rules are here.
"Thanksgiving weekend is a great time to get outdoors and burn off some post-turkey calories," said Virginia State Parks Director Craig Seaver. "There will be plenty of programs in parks throughout the state, so bring the whole family out and create some Thanksgiving memories."
2018 marks the fourth year that outdoor retailer REI has held its #OptOutside campaign. Virginia State Parks partner with REI to promote outdoor activity and park visitation. REI sales receipts in Virginia include a free park pass, and co-op members are entitled to other specials, too. Visit this site for details.
Virginia State Parks cooperate with nearly 80 other outdoor gear retailers, as well, at which a free one-day pass can be obtained. Visit the Get-Gear web page for a list of those retailers. Also, 25 percent off gift certificates will be on sale at state parks Nov. 26 through Dec. 20.
The 38 award-winning Virginia State Parks are managed by the Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation. For more information about offerings in Virginia State Parks, including overnight accommodations, visit www.VirginiaStateParks.gov or call 800-933-7275, Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
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