We know that spending time outside is an important part of a healthy lifestyle, but how does Virginia State Parks fit into that equation?

We know we need food, water and shelter, and we are relational human beings, so we also need each other. But is too much of this a good or bad thing?

Recent studies show that a whopping 60 percent of American adults and more than a third of America's youth don't get enough physical activity or exercise. This has a negative effect on our health. And this means, as a result that 35 percent of adults are overweight, have physical ailments and disease. The numbers for children are not far behind that of adults.

But what about Indoor vs Outdoor

WHICH DO YOU REALLY NEED?

Frisbee on a warm winter's day at Bear Creek Lake State Park

As the saying goes, the time you enjoy wasting is not wasted time. Find out how going outside to a Virginia State Park is good for mind, body, spirit.

Do we need more of this?

Or more of this:

Time together outside is a winning combination (hard hat optional) Natural Bridge State Park

 

GET YOUR OUTSIDE ON

AT A VIRGINIA STATE PARK

 

Visitor Centers, Discovery Centers and gift shops are great amenities at Virginia State Parks, but they are just that, amenities there with facilities and programming to enhance your visit.

Click here to search our events database for a fun program or event at your favorite Virginia State Park, this is a good reason to get here.

 

THE REAL DEAL IS FOUND OUTSIDE

Volunteers make a difference at Mason Neck State Park for the MLK Day of Service

Volunteerism

Volunteering at your favorite Virginia State Park as an individual or part of a group is a great way to go outdoors and get some of the good stuff. Being active outside in this way is being part of something greater. Conservation is the other part of the recreation we love to promote at Virginia State Parks. Part of that conservation is managing our natural resources and being good stewards of the land.

Volunteers can staff contact stations and visitor centers, conduct environmental educational programs, help beautify the parks, develop and maintain park trails. Volunteers can also help visitors find what they need and make neighboring communities more aware of park offerings and recreational activities. 

A few of the ways you can help:

• Volunteer Host
• Youth Conservation Corps
• Alternative Spring Break
• Friend Groups
• Natural Heritage Internships
• AmeriCorps
• Virginia Association for Parks

Learn more about volunteering here, and you can even search for volunteering opportunities here.

The view is part of the reward, you can see for miles and miles at Grayson Highlands State Park

 

THE AIR IS FRESHER OUT HERE

Why go outside?

Besides the fresh air that is found outside, there is sunshine, there is rain, there are seasons, temperature changes, all of which make natural things grow. We are also a part of that cycle, as we also need fresh air, sunshine, rain, temperature changes and seasons to make us grow. This is an important tonic for our mind, body and soul.

Studies have shown that spending time outside and a physically active lifestyle can:

• Enhance overall health and personal quality of life, it can even add up to two years to average life expectancy
• Improve your mood, reduce depression and help alleviate harmful stress
• Being active outside can substantially reduce the risk of developing or dying from cardiovascular disease
• Will help make you more independent, prolong independent living for seniors
• Boost your self-esteem and positive self-image
• Healthwise it can help lower blood pressure and cholesterol, also help prevent site-specific cancers, particularly in the colon, breast and lungs
• Boost strong bones and teeth by being in the sunshine and metabolizing Vitamin D to its fullest.  It can slow down and even combat osteoporosis
• Empower youth by helping to reduce self-destructive behaviors and negative social activity in youth
• Spending time moving outside can help combat type-two diabetes
• Help to reduce both the incidence and severity of illness and disability
• Let you become more active overall as it helps you with an increased productivity. You will be healthier and use up less sick days (unless you want to play hooky and visit us for a “wellness day” at the park.)
• Accept you as you are, with no pretense
• Last but not least, it can soothe your soul

Virginia State Parks is a tonic for the mind, body and soul by providing plenty of space outside to play in nature, which is a vital role for all of us.

There is no doubt that Virginia State Parks can play an essential part in a healthy lifestyle, and they are:

AVAILABLE FOR EVERYONE TO ENJOY

A walk outdoors in the fresh air at Smith Mountain Lake State Park

Accessibility

Virginia State Parks strive to make each park as barrier-free as possible for those with limited mobility. Facilities continue to be upgraded for everyone's enjoyment.

Each state park page has information on the availability of facilities and trails for people with disabilities, just click on the section titled “OTHER” to learn more. Feel free to contact Virginia State Parks Customer Service Center at 800-933-7275 or the individual park for more information on accessibility before your visit.

This is why outside is better than inside, it is a simple formula:

Me + outside = healthier 

You + me + outside = happier

Click here to find a Virginia State Park near you to get started. To spend more time at the park, you can learn more about overnight accommodations in cabins here, and campgrounds here, or call 800-933-PARK.

OUTSIDE IS GOOD, REAL GOOD