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Haley Rodgers

Hello, thanks for reading! As the content & social media manager for the Department of Conservation & Recreation (including Virginia State Parks), I'm passionate about inspiring you to explore Virginia's outdoors.
My passion comes from cherishing my own experiences outdoors. I grew up in Utah, hiking and camping nearly every weekend. I love the wild west deserts and mountains, but I'm equally fond of the forests and waterways of Virginia that I now call home.
I hope my words inspire you to explore Virginia State Parks! Use our hashtag on social media when you visit, so I can see your experiences: #vastateparks. It makes me happy to help others find joy in the outdoors.
6 ways to spend Earth Day
Posted March 20, 2025
Get inspired to give back on Earth Day! Virginia State Parks are hosting events across the commonwealth for you to attend.
What it's like to do an adventure race at a Virginia state park
Posted February 04, 2025
Park regulars participated in an all-women's adventure race at Occoneechee State Park. Read what an adventure race is, what it's like to participate, what you get out of it and how it helps you explore the park system.
Virginia birds in The 12 Days of Christmas
Posted December 19, 2024
Winter is a great time for birding in Virginia. Participate in the Christmas Bird Count or simply go looking for winter wildlife on your own. Find out which Virginia birds you should be on the look out for this time of year.
First Master Paddler of Virginia State Parks: Colleen Renderos
Posted December 04, 2024
We asked the first person to complete our Wandering Waters Paddle Quest program to tell us about her experience wandering the waters of 31 Virginia State Parks. For completing the program, Colleen Renderos received her Master Paddler certificate.
Trail running through Trail Quest: Q&A with Master Hiker, Jessica Hairfield
Posted October 29, 2024
Interviewing Master Hiker Jessica Hairfield on her experience with Trail Quest. Jessica is a trail runner who ran on the trails during most of her park visits. She shares her experiences, her favorite parks to trail run at and advice for new runners.
How to have the best stargazing adventure in Virginia State Parks
Posted February 22, 2024
Looking for the best places to stargaze in Virginia State Parks? A good place to start is to visit one of our four state parks that are designated as International Dark Sky Parks. Let us give you tips to make it a great experience!
Q&A with creator of Wandering Waters program – Sammy Zambon
Posted May 24, 2023
As of May 2023, Virginia State Parks has a new program called Wandering Waters (Paddle Quest)! Hear from the creator of this program, Visitor Experience Specialist Sammy Zambon, to learn more.
3 state parks to see in south central Virginia
Posted March 30, 2023
An itinerary for you to see three state parks in three days in south central Virginia: Occoneechee, Staunton River and Staunton River Battlefield State Parks. Find out the best way to experience these parks and get closer to completing Trail Quest.
Experience a Star Party at Staunton River State Park
Posted March 01, 2023
Find out what it's like to attend a star party and why you should plan to attend one at Virginia State Parks. Staunton River State Park is one of our four Dark Sky Parks that host star parties that are out of this world.
Virginia State Park Rangers Going Above and Beyond
Posted August 11, 2022
Enjoy five short stories about Virginia State Park rangers who deserve a shout out for going above and beyond at Sailor's Creek Battlefield, Hungry Mother, Wilderness Road, Westmoreland, and Fairy Stone State Parks.