Read Our Blogs
Ranger Yate's path to Hungry Mother
Posted March 07, 2025
Every ranger at Virginia State Parks has a different story on how they came to work here. Check out this story from Hungry Mother State Park Ranger Yates and why he loves working for parks.
5 must-do activities at Natural Tunnel State Park
Posted March 05, 2025
Located in the scenic Appalachian Mountains, Natural Tunnel State Park is a hidden gem. Many people come here for the 100-foot-tall Natural Tunnel, but they discover quickly that the more than 1,000-acre park has much more to offer.
Kid-friendly programs: Q&A with kids who love Virginia State Parks
Posted February 28, 2025
Ever wonder what activities your kids or grandkids may enjoy during a Virginia State Parks visit? Hattie (age 12) and Cam (age 11) share their favorite experiences over the years. Spoiler alert: there are fun opportunities for all ages!
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.
A resource management career at Virginia State Parks: Kerry O'Neil
Posted February 11, 2025
Kerry O'Neil serves as the Piedmont Region Resource Specialist with Virginia State Parks. She initially dreamed of various careers but found her passion for resource management through her experiences visiting Virginia State parks.
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.
Spring Burning Restrictions February 15 through April 30
Posted February 01, 2025
Per state law, open fires are prohibited in all Virginia State Parks from midnight until 4 p.m., February 15 through April 30. Find out about the one exception in this blog.
A Virginia State Parks road trip for Black History Month
Posted February 01, 2025
February is Black History Month. Take a trip across the state with a focus on the history to learn, honor and celebrate Black Americans and their stories in Virginia State Parks.
B.A.R.K. Ranger Program puts the wow in bow wow
Posted December 10, 2024
The B.A.R.K. Rangers Program is a fun way to enjoy responsible recreation with your dog while creating lasting memories. You also get a reward for completing the program. While rewards vary by park, adventures exist at all locations.






















