Due to the expected impact of the winter storm, all Virginia State Park overnight facilities will be closed from Friday, Jan. 23 through Sunday, Jan. 25. This decision is based on the forecast for unsafe conditions and potential power outages. For updates click here.
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Field trip and homeschooling opportunities at Virginia State Parks
Posted August 05, 2025
Virginia is home to a diverse array of state parks, each offering unique natural landscapes, rich history and hands-on educational experiences, making them perfect extensions of the classroom.
Christmas in July: Top 5 Virginia State Parks gifts
Posted 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.
Saving the eastern hellbender and how to see one at a Virginia State Park
Posted 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.
Everything you need to know about James River's Rooftop Tent Rally
Posted June 24, 2025
James River State Park is teaming up with Blue Ridge Overland Gear again for its annual Roof Top Tent Rally. The special event provides a unique opportunity to connect with fellow overlanders or explore the overlanding lifestyle for the first time.
Honoring lifelong campers: Johnny and Diane Hottle's love for Douthat State Park
Posted 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.
Tapping for syrup at Clinch River State Park
Posted June 02, 2025
Over the winter, Clinch River State Park and community partners took to the woods to tap trees on Sugar Hill to produce syrup. The tapping event was more than just a sweet endeavor, it was the first to take place on Sugar Hill in roughly 70 years.
Discovering Natural Bridge State Park's visitor center
Posted May 27, 2025
Located just 2 miles off Interstate 81, Natural Bridge State Park draws visitors from near and far. While the iconic limestone bridge and breathtaking scenery are the main attractions, the visitor center is an essential part of the park experience.
4 women in law enforcement at Virginia State Parks
Posted March 28, 2025
DCR's law enforcement rangers go beyond traditional policing; they serve to protect people and Virginia's natural and cultural resources. Among these professional are women breaking barriers in a historically male-dominated field.
5 parks to explore within an hour of Roanoke
Posted March 17, 2025
In addition to its own opportunities for connecting with nature, Roanoke provides you with easy access to five Virginia State Parks: Claytor Lake, Douthat, Fairy Stone, Smith Mountain Lake and Natural Bridge.
5 must-do activities at Claytor Lake State Park
Posted March 12, 2025
Claytor Lake State Park is a go-to destination for water enthusiasts. Its 4,500-acre lake offers roughly 4 miles of lake frontage, including a sandy beach. While the water draws many people in, it's not all this park offers.
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