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.

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5 quirky things to do at Virginia State Parks

By Shellie AnnePosted October 08, 2015

Have you ever wondered what there is to do at Virginia State Parks when the beaches close for the season? Well here are a few fun things to discover throughout the rest of the year at your favorite state parks, and they have to be good for you since they all take place outside.

Here is our list of 5 quirky things to get you started, and at the end there is another way to find even more fun for the whole family.

1. RENT A CRASH PAD

Did you know that Grayson Highlands State Park offers one of the best bouldering sites in the East? This park is home to 1,000 boulder problems, or paths, that have been established by famed climber and author, Aaron Parlier and he recommends you rent a crash pad for the day. Learn more here.

Extreme sports like bouldering can help get you outside

2. BALD IS BEAUTIFUL

Visit the Bald Cypress Swamp at First Landing State Park. And if you stop by the Trail Center at this park you can purchase an interpretive brochure for .50 cents that will lead you through the Bald Cypress Swamp where you can learn about its distinctive appeal to so many birds, reptiles and amphibians. Learn more here.

Swamp stumps are just a few of the odd characters you will meet

3. TIE ONE ON

Sky Meadows State Park offers family backpacks on loan to strap on and discover the park fin a brand new way. They have a few options to choose from: Beginning Birding, Insect Investigation, Woodland Wonders. Borrow them for the day and let the outdoor adventure begin. Learn more here.

Slow down to take notice of the nature at the park

4. READY AIM FIRE

Participate in an encampment on a real battlefield. There is an encampment coming up October 17-18, 2015 at Sailor's Creek Historical Battlefield State Park, to learn more click here.

Sailor's Creek Historical Battlefield State Park hosts Civil War encampments

5. BE A GOLD DIGGER

Well, more accurately a gold panner. Become a prospector at Lake Anna State Park as you learn how gold was mined in the 1800's, then tip your hand at panning for gold and see what you can dredge up. Learn more here.