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: August 18, 2025
Contact: Starr Anderson, Public Relations and Marketing Specialist, 540-460-1540, starr.anderson@dcr.virginia.gov
Seven Bends State Park supporter establishes fund to benefit park’s natural resources
WOODSTOCK, Va. – Seven Bends State Park is proud to announce the establishment of a new fund created through the generosity of a long-time park user and passionate supporter of Virginia’s public lands.
Planting Roots for the Future of Seven Bends State Park was established by Tim Funk through the Shenandoah Community Foundation with an initial donation of $20,500.
Funk came up with the idea during one of his regular hikes in the park as a way to help reduce his carbon footprint and replace the trees that were removed at his nearby residence.
“This fund represents a powerful act of stewardship,” said Park Manager Tom Stevens. “It’s a gift not just to the park but to the community and the many visitors who find peace, adventure and connection with nature here. We are truly grateful to Tim for his contribution.”
The fund is dedicated to preserving and enhancing the park’s natural beauty and will award grants annually to the Friends of the North Fork of the Shenandoah River to purchase trees, shrubs and other plants, as well as planting-related costs, for the 1,000-acre park.
All purchases will be made in accordance with the park’s natural resource management plan and under the guidance of park management.
"Seven Bends State Park is one of the North Fork’s most beloved gateways, and this fund is a beautiful investment in its future,” said Friends of the North Fork of the Shenandoah River's Executive Director Laura Bennett. “We’re honored to help bring more native trees and plants to the park, knowing each one strengthens the land, the river and the experience of every visitor who walks its trails."
For more information about Seven Bends State Park, please visit www.virginiastateparks.gov/seven-bends.
-30-
Virginia State Parks are managed by the Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation. For more information about Virginia State Parks’ activities and amenities or to reserve one of the more than 1,800 campsites or 300 climate-controlled cabins, call the Virginia State Parks Reservation Center at 800-933-PARK or visit www.virginiastateparks.gov.
Share this news release:
