Sure, Mom would probably like flowers, chocolates and brunch at a fancy restaurant, but how about offering her the gift of the great outdoors, you know Mom is really only happy when we're happy.

Here's a trick to help make Mom happy this Mother's Day from Virginia State Parks...opt outside and take her camping.

Give Mom fond memories this Mother's Day outside at a Virginia State Park

Here are some good suggestions for surprising Mom this Mother's Day, or pick another weekend to campout if she can't get away:

1. | SUN AND SURF MOM

Camp and spend the days on a beach at First Landing State Park with Mom

First Landing State Park, Virginia Beach.

Let Mom enjoy the sand between her toes. Some favorites sites are near the dunes and accessible to the beach. Learn more about camping at this park here.

2. | MOUNTAIN MAMA MOM

Take Mom to the mountains at Shenandoah River State Park to hike and a change of scenery

Shenandoah River State Park, Bentonville. 

Let Mom hike the trails and overlooks. If you don't have a tent, consider a camping cabin. Learn more about camping at this park.

3. | KAYAK LOVING MOM

Mom can see wildlife and wildflowers blooming around Claytor Lake from her kayak

Claytor Lake State Park, Dublin. 

Let Mom pick up a paddle and tour the lake, it's even more fun when you go with her. Learn more about camping at this park.

4. | FAMILY PHOTO MOM

There's no better backdrop for a family photo than the great outdoors, Staunton River State Park

Staunton River State Park, Scottsburg.

Let Mom have the joy of taking a decent family photo for a change. Learn more about camping at this park.

5. | EXPLORER MOM

Mom is the original explorer when it comes to finding cool stuff like at Belle Isle State Park

Belle Isle State Park, Lancaster.

Let Mom explore the shoreline on the Northern Neck's Rappahannock River and Mulberry and Deep creeks. She can probably teach you a thing or two. Learn more about camping at this park.

6. | HOOK A LUNKER MOM

Moms who like to fish love casting their lines at Occoneechee State Park

Occoneechee State Park, Clarksville.

Let Mom catch a whopper this Mother's Day. Click here to see more about the great fishing at Virginia State Parks. Learn more about camping at this park.

BONUS

Dads can score big if you help the kids plan the campout (Fairy Stone State Park)

All of the parks listed above rent kayaks, canoes and/or stand-up paddleboards. Try something new and impress Mom this Mother's Day. More about that here.

PARK PROGRAMS

Mom would never expect you to go "device free" when you go camping, but you can pamper Mom with your undivided attention as you make s'mores together around a campfire, or maybe enjoy a park program.

To see a list of all fun programs on Mother's Day weekend where you can unplug and learn some neat things, click here, or to search by park, or type of activity, here.

PLAN IT

Be sure to sign up for the Customer Loyalty Program to earn points for free overnight stays, saving money also makes Mom smile.