Open fires are prohibited throughout the park from midnight to 4 p.m. through April 30 per the 4 p.m. Burning Law. This includes wood and charcoal. Gas is permissible. Campground fires are allowed during the restricted time if a camp host is on duty and signage to that effect is posted in the campground. Failure to observe the 4 p.m. Burning Law can result in a fine. Contact the Park Office for additional information.

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Whether you’re an experienced backpacker or looking for an introduction to backcountry camping, the hike-in campground at Sky Meadows State Park might be just the place to unwind and unplug in the coming new year. As always, when embarking on an overnight camping trip, we ask our visitors to recreate responsibly and to know before you go. Visitors to outdoor spaces, especially overnight visitors, should take the time to plan and prepare for your visit. In fact, "plan ahead and prepare" is the very first principle of the Seven Leave No Trace Principles that everyone should learn as part of their camping trip preparation.

Plan ahead and prepare for your camping trip by making site-specific reservations. Photo credit: Charles Price
Plan ahead and prepare for your camping trip by making site-specific reservations. Photo credit: Charles Price

Making site-specific reservations

Another important way to plan ahead and prepare for camping, is to make your reservations in advance. New in 2022, reservations at all Virginia State Parks will be site-specific. Fans of our hike-in campground at Sky Meadows State Park, will know that the procedure has long been to select your individual campsite upon arrival to the campground. Starting with the New Year, this procedure will change so that you will reserve a specific numbered site. Much like making a reservation for one of our group sites, campers will now be required to set up camp only on the individual site that matches their reservation.

It is always a good idea to orient yourself to the layout and “know before you go.”
It is always a good idea to orient yourself to the layout and “know before you go.”

Choosing your campsite

Of course, the natural next question is going to be “which campsite should I reserve?” Great question, and the answer is “it depends.” The biggest determining factor, of course, will be availability. Our campground has 15 individual sites designated by red signs numbered 1 through 15. It is quite common for all 15 sites to be reserved on fair-weather weekends.

Campsite number two has some large rocks that can double as “furniture.”
Campsite number two has some large rocks that can double as “furniture.”

Keep in mind that you can make reservations up to 11 months in advance. You are likely to have more choices, the further you plan ahead. If you do have the advantage of selecting among several sites, you might choose a site based on convenience to the privies, water source or trails. Although each of the campsites are separate enough from the others to provide for ample privacy, they do vary in their distance from the trail.

The campground bathroom facilities have vault toilet privies and are stocked with toilet paper and hand sanitizer. Photo credit: Charles Price
The campground bathroom facilities have vault toilet privies and are stocked with toilet paper and hand sanitizer. Photo credit: Charles Price

You can rest assured that, even if you do not get your favorite campsite, each site has access to the same campground amenities including privy-style bathrooms, a non-potable water source (come prepared to purify the water) and pre-cut firewood for sale. It is “primitive” camping due to the fact that it is an approximate one-mile hike from the designated parking and unloading spot, and the campground has no electricity, flush toilets, or Wi-Fi.  However, the campsites do provide some backcountry camping luxuries. Each individual site is equipped with a level 16' x 16' tent pad, picnic table, bear-proof locker, lantern hook and fire pit with a small grate. You will have to plan ahead and prepare to bring everything else you’ll need.

Each campsite has a bear-proof locker, to help our campers “Leave No Trace” and respect our wildlife. Photo credit: Charles Price
Each campsite has a bear-proof locker, to help our campers “Leave No Trace” and respect our wildlife. Photo credit: Charles Price

Recreate responsibly

Just remember those Leave No Trace Principles including “pack it in, pack it out” also known as disposing of waste properly. Bear-proof garbage receptacles are provided outside of the campground restrooms; however, it is always best practice to pack out your trash when visiting any outdoor space. Another thing to consider when planning your camping trip is the comfort level and ability of each member of your party. Sky Meadows State Park offers a unique camping experience for those who are looking to rest and rejuvenate away from the pressures of modern life and modern conveniences. The trail to the campground is easy and even bike-accessible. It is a great place for families with children, novice backpackers and experienced outdoor enthusiasts alike. If you “know before you go,” you’ll be sure to enjoy your stay.

Campers of all ages will enjoy the luxury of pre-cut firewood for sale and other campground amenities at Sky Meadows State Park.
Campers of all ages will enjoy the luxury of pre-cut firewood for sale and other campground amenities at Sky Meadows State Park.

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If you have read the article and have a question, please email nancy.heltman@dcr.virginia.gov.

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