Merchandise sales locations will be closed state-wide for the required annual inventory beginning Wednesday, April 15 and will reopen when completed on April 16. 

Open fires are prohibited throughout the park from midnight to 4 p.m., Feb. 15 through April 30. Learn more.

Read Our Blogs

A Shenandoah road trip: Shenandoah River, Seven Bends and Sky Meadows

By Christen McKeyPosted July 29, 2025
With the Shenandoah River as a centerpiece and three state parks within an hour’s drive from one another, there are many reasons to make a trip to this northwestern part of the state. Learn how to enjoy all three of these state parks.
View from Cullers Overlook

Christmas in July: Top 5 Virginia State Parks gifts

By Starr AndersonPosted July 29, 2025
Christmas in July is the perfect time to beat the heat and get a head start on your gift list. Whether you're shopping for the outdoorsy type, a parks superfan here are our top 5 gifts at Virginia State Parks.
Virginia State Parks outline design

Saving the eastern hellbender and how to see one at a Virginia State Park

By Starr AndersonPosted July 14, 2025
The eastern hellbender is North America's largest salamander. Unfortunately, the future of the this aquatic giant is uncertain due to habitat loss from damming, sedimentation from logging and mining, agricultural runoff, pollution and flooding.
Hellbender

Oyster Reefs on the York River

By John GreshamPosted July 14, 2025
There is a growing oyster reef along York River State Park's living shoreline.
Reef ready oysters

Camping and paddling at Machicomoco State Park

By Guest BloggerPosted June 30, 2025
Ralph Heimlich is an experienced paddler and member of Chesapeake Paddlers Association who is sharing his adventures during his trip to Machicomoco State Park. He and his group camped at the park and enjoyed some time on the water.
Camp site with bathhouse in background

10 Cool Things for Kids to Do This Summer: Tweens

By Christen McKeyPosted June 20, 2025
Summer is heating up! Check out these cool things for tweens to do during their break at Virginia State Parks.
Pocahontas State Park

10 Cool Things for Kids to Do This Summer: Tikes

By Christen McKeyPosted June 20, 2025
Virginia State Parks have a variety of fun programs and amenities to keep your little ones busy this summer. Check out this list of cool things to do for tikes, age 7 and under, and start making plans!
Beach fun at Bear Creek Lake State Park

Honoring lifelong campers: Johnny and Diane Hottle's love for Douthat State Park

By Starr AndersonPosted June 18, 2025
As one of the original six Virginia State Parks to open in 1936, Douthat State Park has long been a go-to destination for nature lovers, families and thrill seekers. Among its most loyal visitors are Johnny and Diane Hottle.
Johnny and Diane Hottle

7 places to park your RV at Virginia State Parks

By Guest BloggerPosted June 17, 2025
Take your RV to any of these seven Virginia State Parks for a great time!
Chippokes State Park campground with an RV at it with trees surrounding it and a sandpad with a bug net on it

Reel in the fun fishing at a Virginia State Park

By Kim WellsPosted June 06, 2025
Do you want to learn how to fish or experience a refresher course to build your skills? Virginia State Parks provide a wide variety of fishing spots and programs that help you learn the best ways to enjoy your water adventures this summer.
Fishing program at Bear Creek Lake


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