Shared by Joe Cutright, as Guest Blogger.

Do you love Virginia State Parks, but crave a new challenge?

One weekend remains in our winter camping season, so whether you are a seasoned camper or an adventurous beginner, the time has come to experience your favorite parks from a new perspective.

Developed campgrounds at Douthat, Hungry Mother, Pocahontas, and Shenandoah River state parks remain open through the winter.

But False Cape, Belle Isle, Caledon, Powhatan, James River, Sky Meadows, Shenandoah River, and New River Trail all feature year-round primitive camping if you prefer to rough it.

Take advantage of the opportunity to camp year-round in four developed campgrounds

MORE TO SEE

While spring, summer, and fall are all fantastic times to visit, a stay during the chillier months can often be a more intimate experience. As our Visitor Services Director Nancy Heltman says:

"When the leaves are off the trees, there can be more wildlife to see."

Because there are fewer visitors from December to March, winter is the prime time to commune with great Virginia nature.

Wintertime skies are a stargazers delight at Pocahontas State Park

BURN BAN

It is important to remember that our parks observe the annual spring state burn ban from February 15 through April 30.* 

Open fires, which include charcoal and wood fires, are prohibited between midnight and 4:00 p.m. each year from February 15 through April 30 in all of our parks. The law permits gas grills or propane stoves during that period and visitors are encouraged to bring them to use while camping or picnicking. Open fires are allowed after 4 p.m. and until midnight.

*Exception: during this period, campfires are only permitted when a camp host is in attendance. To verify that a camp host is present during your planned stay, please call the park directly.

Nightly campfires are only allowed when a camp host is present at

the campground from February 15 through April 30

BE PREPARED

Here are a few important tips to help you make the best of your stay:

1) Check the forecast

While snowfall provides the quintessential wintertime backdrop, you will want to make sure you are prepared for whatever Mother Nature sends your way.

2) Verify local roads are open and safe

Do not let ice or floodwaters derail your plans.  Contact the park office in advance to ensure your path is clear.

3) Remember the essentials

Even though the temperature is lower it is important to remember to pack items such as sunblock and lip balm, and please do not forget to hydrate.

Be prepared for anything when you winter camp, you might wake up to this

Visit these other great DCR blogs for more information: 

• 5 Awesome Primitive Campgrounds in Virginia,
• Winter Hiking Tips: Enjoying the off-season at Virginia State Parks,
• Top Ten Random Camping Tips
• Outdoor Safety: Got Any Good Tips?

MAKE PLANS

Book your winter stay today; become a year-round camper and see all that Virginia State Parks have to offer. To reserve your campsite, or learn more about camping at Virginia State Parks here, or call 800-933-7275.

Remember, if winter camping is not for you, most campgrounds are open from the first Friday in March through the first Monday in December.

Be sure to sign up for the Customer Loyalty Program to earn points that may be used for free overnight stays.

#THINKOUTSIDE