Read Our Blogs
5 ways to experience High Bridge Trail State Park
Posted April 30, 2025
High Bridge Trail State Park follows an old railroad bed with little incline which makes it perfect for walking, biking and horseback riding. There are several trailheads to start your journey through numerous towns and across Central Virginia.
Welcome spring at Douthat State Park
Posted March 31, 2025
Spring is in the air, and adventure is calling! After the quiet of winter, Douthat State Park is coming back to life, offering visitors beautiful views, fresh mountain air and a range of outdoor activities.
5 parks to explore within an hour of Roanoke
Posted March 17, 2025
In addition to its own opportunities for connecting with nature, Roanoke provides you with easy access to five Virginia State Parks: Claytor Lake, Douthat, Fairy Stone, Smith Mountain Lake and Natural Bridge.
5 must-do activities at Claytor Lake State Park
Posted March 12, 2025
Claytor Lake State Park is a go-to destination for water enthusiasts. Its 4,500-acre lake offers roughly 4 miles of lake frontage, including a sandy beach. While the water draws many people in, it’s not all this park offers.
5 must-do activities at Hungry Mother State Park
Posted March 03, 2025
Hungry Mother State Park is a go-to destination for nature lovers. With 3,334 acres of scenic woodlands, a 108-acre lake and abundant activities for visitors of all ages, it’s easy to see why this park has been a favorite since 1936.
What it’s like to do an adventure race at a Virginia state park
Posted February 04, 2025
Park regulars participated in an all-women’s adventure race at Occoneechee State Park. Read what an adventure race is, what it's like to participate, what you get out of it and how it helps you explore the park system.
5 ways to spend more time in nature in 2025
Posted December 26, 2024
If your New Year’s resolution is to spend more time outside this year, look no further than Virginia State Parks. With 43 unique parks from the Cumberland Gap to the Atlantic Ocean, the opportunities for outdoor adventures are endless.
5 must-do activities at Douthat State Park
Posted September 25, 2024
Nestled in the heart of the Allegheny Mountains, Douthat State Park is one of Virginia’s original six state parks. It offers year-round adventures with its 4,500 acres of forested wilderness, a 50-acre lake and more than 40 miles of trails.
5 things to do in the forest for fall break
Posted September 19, 2024
Whether or not you are a student, taking a fall break is good for mind, body and spirit! And Virginia State Parks are filled with green spaces that can help you refresh and enjoy the autumn season to the fullest.
5 things to experience when visiting Holliday Lake State Park
Posted July 24, 2024
Holliday Lake State Park is a hidden gem in Appomattox that offers a variety of activities and scenery for all to enjoy. Whether you want a self-guided adventure or ranger-led activity, this park is a must visit destination.
High Bridge Trail State Park completes extension into Pamplin
Posted April 24, 2024
High Bridge Trail now connects to Pamplin City after many years in the making and DCR is excited to be a part of the town's story. This new western terminus is a great place to start your trek on High Bridge Trail State Park.
Family-friendly tips for backcountry camping
Posted April 08, 2024
Planning a hike-in or bike-in primitive camping trip with kids doesn’t have to be intimidating. Experience the unique features of these Virginia State Parks with a few backcountry camping tips for a fun family adventure!
A conversation with James, The Ethnic Explorer
Posted February 15, 2024
James, The Ethnic Explorer, joins us for a conversation about diversifying the outdoors, Black history, his favorite Virginia State Parks and more!
Top 5 things to do at Seven Bends State Park
Posted September 28, 2023
Find five fun activities for you to enjoy at Seven Bends State Park, in the heart of the Shenandoah Valley.
Hungry Mother State Park builds new mountain bike trail system
Posted September 07, 2023
Mountain bikers have a new riding opportunity in Southwest Virginia. Hungry Mother State Park has opened 3 miles of its new Raider’s Run Mountain Bike Trail System. The remaining 2 miles are under construction and will open in the spring of 2025.
5 must-do activities at New River Trail’s Foster Falls
Posted July 12, 2023
There is no shortage of activities for visitors at New River Trail. The 57-mile linear park has more than 10 different access points; however, the Foster Falls area serves as a great activity hub no matter your interest.
5 day itinerary to explore the Farmville Five
Posted August 04, 2022
There are five Virginia State Parks located in Farmville and each one offers a unique look at the area while providing a variety of recreational activities that can be experienced in a fun 5-day trip.
9 Great Rail Trails in Virginia
Posted March 25, 2021
Take in the beautiful Virginia countryside as you ride the former rails on our state's rail-trails. Two of the longest are scenic Virginia State Parks.
Ode to a Winter Beach
Posted December 05, 2020
Enjoy having 6 miles of pristine Atlantic coastline all to yourself when you visit False Cape State Park in the winter.
Don't Get Lost in the Woods
.... Unless You Want To
Posted October 08, 2020
New Virginia State Parks maps use GPS technology and the Avenza Map app to help with way-finding.