Posted Oct. 8, 2020 | Updated Feb. 2, 2021

We launched new maps for all of our Virginia State Parks!
Using GPS technology, the new maps allow you to see
where you are on the map at all times.

Hikers enjoy a trail at Powhatan State Park

Pocahontas State Park is our largest park, and we often get complaints that the printed map is inadequate. In fact, we have made that map much larger than our normal 8.5 x 14-inch guides and split it up, but nearly 8,000 acres and 90 plus miles of trails can't be easily shown on even a sheet of tablet-sized paper.

Even smaller parks and less extensive trail systems can be a challenge with a paper map. Two of my favorites are Natural Bridge and Natural Tunnel state parks. Because of elevation differences, when I look at the map, even though I know the park's layout, I get just plain confused.

As the person that responds to our Your Comments Count surveys, I know how frustrated folks are with paper maps, and I am thrilled that our staff has worked hard to bring this new technology to our visitors. Did you know that getting lost in the woods is often touted as a park-goers biggest fear?

Geo-referenced PDFs save the day.

Map apps like Avenza use specially created PDFs to communicate with satellites. As you proceed through the park, you show up as a blue dot for a moving "You Are Here" map on your mobile device. You need a cell signal to download the map, but after that, all you need is battery life to help you find your way.

In addition to keeping you on the trail and not lost, if you have an emergency, you can contact help and let them know exactly where you are. Our search and rescue teams are thrilled by the possibilities. For instance, if you encounter a downed tree, see a bear, notice a blown-out section of trail, and discover a hazard? Mark it and let us know. We will be able to find the spot easily. You can also track how many miles you hike or bike.

Perhaps you have a map app you prefer. Many of them will let you upload your own maps, and we are providing the geo-referenced PDF files so you can do just that.

The Avenza Map app and our maps are completely free.

Avenza has a free version and several paid options. The free version allows unlimited downloads from their store. Some maps in their store have a fee, but all of the Virginia State Park maps are available at no cost. We added the links to the Avenza maps and the PDFs to the park trail maps webpage. Parks will also have flyers with the app download links and QR codes as well as the link and QR code for the park's map, but we recommend downloading the map before you leave, if possible.

Get Started Now

First, download Avenza from the Apple or Android stores.

                 https://vasp.fun/AvenzaApple          https://vasp.fun/AvenzaAndroid

Next, click the link or QR code for the map on their store and download it. If your cell signal is good, the download is fast. A quick link to all of the Virginia State Park maps, including some of our managed hunt maps, can be found here.

Avenza has some great how-to videos to show basic and advanced features. The basic training takes you through creating tracks and sharing maps you have saved with details with friends.

Know Before You Go

• Check the website of the park you intend to visit for any alerts. Have an alternate plan in case the park is at capacity when you arrive.
• Stay close to home. If you’re sick with any ailment, stay home.
• Guests should bring their own soap and hand sanitizer to use during visits.
• Groups and gatherings of more than 250 people are prohibited, and these restrictions will be enforced by park staff.
• Bring face coverings. Face coverings are required in all park facilities and in outdoor areas where social distancing is not possible.
• Respect social distance. Keep a distance of at least 6 feet from others at all times. While on trails, alert others of your presence and step aside to let others pass at a safe distance.
• Play it safe. Choose lower-risk activities. Injuring yourself puts medical providers at risk and places unnecessary strain on medical resources.
• Parking fees remain in place. If entrance contact stations are not staffed, self-pay is available, and we recommend you bring cash or check for the daily parking fees (PDF).
• To protect the park's natural resources, stay on designated trails - do not blaze your own.
• Do not litter; pack out what you bring in or deposit in the nearest trash can. This includes dog waste.