Read Our Blogs
Mother and daughter become Virginia Master Hikers and Master Naturalists together in 1 year
Posted April 22, 2025
Kelly and her daughter decided to take on Trail Quest with a goal of completing it in one year. Along the way they decided to both become Master Naturalists, too. Learn about their adventurous year, how they planned it out and her recommendations.
Colorful winter woods at Virginia State Parks
Posted February 24, 2025
Master Naturalist Kelly Roach encourages you to embrace winter on the trail, challenging you to look for color along the way. Learn what evergreen plants to look for, what marcescence is, colorful birds you may see and why the sky is bluer in winter.
5 must-do activities at Grayson Highlands State Park
Posted February 19, 2025
Tucked away in the Blue Ridge Mountains, Grayson Highlands State Park is a true gem. It’s adjacent to two of Virginia’s highest mountains, Mount Rodgers and Whitetop, so it offers unforgettable views, challenging trails and a serene atmosphere.
Virginia birds in The 12 Days of Christmas
Posted December 19, 2024
Winter is a great time for birding in Virginia. Participate in the Christmas Bird Count or simply go looking for winter wildlife on your own. Find out which Virginia birds you should be on the look out for this time of year.
Where to wander this winter
Posted December 09, 2024
Wintertime is around the corner and Virginia State Parks have numerous things for you to do despite the cold weather. Check out the many activities you can do solo or with friends and family to enjoy this winter season.
How to have the best stargazing adventure in Virginia State Parks
Posted February 22, 2024
Looking for the best places to stargaze in Virginia State Parks? A good place to start is to visit one of our four state parks that are designated as International Dark Sky Parks. Let us give you tips to make it a great experience!
Winter Hiking Tips: Enjoying the off-season at Virginia State Parks
Posted January 09, 2024
Hiking offers challenges and opportunities to enjoy the off-season at Virginia State Parks!
Planning a winter getaway to James River State Park
Posted December 18, 2023
Whether you're an avid outdoor enthusiast or someone seeking a peaceful escape, James River State Park has something to offer everyone during the winter months. So, bundle up, pack your sense of adventure and head to James River.
December Kayaking at Fairy Stone State Park
Posted December 12, 2023
Guest blogger Glen Mitchell shares the view from his kayak during a trip to Fairy Stone in December, 2019 with his wife.
Hiking Through the Eyes of a City Girl
Posted February 10, 2023
Growing up in the city gave me a different perspective on nature and the great outdoors. I didn't go hiking or even want to be outdoors, but joining the Americorps program at a Virginia State Park changed that perspective.
How to enjoy Virginia State Parks in winter
Posted January 13, 2023
How can we make the most of the winter season? Whether at home or in a park, we can explore nature! By taking a hike, creating a nature craft or playing in the snow, we can experience winter to the fullest.
Winter Wildlife Adventures at Virginia State Parks
Posted January 11, 2023
Wintertime is the perfect time to view wildlife at a Virginia State Park. Enjoy a ranger-led or self-guided program that showcases the birds and wildlife that reside at the park. Bring your binoculars so you can better view these stunning animals.
Wildlife Surviving Winter
Posted January 11, 2022
Have you ever wondered how our favorite little creatures survive winter in the wild? Guest blogger Monica shares her findings with us and invites you to Virginia State Parks to learn more.
Making the Most of Our Trail Quest Adventure
Posted December 28, 2021
Debra Ryder shares her experiences of completing Trail Quest with her partner RJ Meade. They started 2021 by going on a First Day Hike which kicked off their journey to visiting all 41 Virginia State Parks in under one year.
Exploring the Winter Wildlife
Posted December 08, 2020
Guest Blogger Monica Hoel shares some tips and tricks on how to spot wildlife in the colder months.
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.
Virginia Is For Wildlife Photography Lovers
Posted November 23, 2020
Barbara J. Saffir, Author of "Walking Washington, DC," Virginia Master Naturalist, and founder of Nature Photography DC/MD/VA discusses the natural treasures that lie within Virginia State Parks.
5 Reasons to visit Twin Lakes this Winter
Posted December 23, 2019
Whether you're looking for a little solitude or a new perspective, winter is a great time to rediscover Twin Lakes.
7 reasons to go winter birding at Mason Neck State Park
Posted November 29, 2019
Mason Neck State Park offers winter birding at its best.
My Favorite Time of Year for Sunsets at Virginia State Parks
Posted October 29, 2019
Incredible sunsets at a Virginia State Park near you!