Virginia State Parks has a simple philosophy when asking about cook-outs and picnics at our parks, focus on what is important:

"Don't tell me what you ate. Tell me who you ate with."

A couple enjoy dinner together at the Lakeview Restaurant in Douthat State Park

Great American Campout at Mason Neck State Park with cook-out

Grilling outside a cabin after a long day exploring the park is always fun

There can also be a lot of planning and prep in cooking out

Eating out is a multi-generational event and a tradition at Virginia State Parks

Dutch Oven Cooking classes are a neat way to cook outside at Powhatan State Park

Good times always involve good food like this Women's Wellness Weekend

Festivals offer special regional foods like hand-pies or barbeque

The most requested Virginia State Parks food item is of course s'mores

Virginia State Parks offer the perfect picnic and cookout locations with playgrounds, pedestal grills, tables and shelters, with scenery like lakes, rivers, mountains, and seashores for you to explore as a couple, family or group. You can learn more about renting picnic shelters here for larger gatherings or call 800-933-PARK.

There are also two seasonal restaurants, besides snack bars and concessions to purchase food at Virginia State Parks, Hungry Mother State Park and Douthat State Park.

LET'S EAT OUT!