Open fires are prohibited throughout the park from midnight to 4 p.m., Feb. 15 through April 30. Learn more.

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The Importance of Vernal Pools

By Kim WellsPosted March 30, 2026
Do you know what a vernal pool is and what animals live there? Vernal pools are important for some species survival. I highly recommend checking out a Vernal Pool Program at a Virginia State Park to learn more about these pools first-hand.
A small pool of water in a forest blanketed with leaves, with eggs floating on the surface

13 Spring Birding Adventures at Virginia State Parks

By Mary BishopPosted March 27, 2026
Whether you're new to birding or an old hat, you will want to learn more about these fun spring birding adventures at Virginia State Parks.
Listening is a key part of birding, and the best way to locate them. Red headed woodpecker at Sky Meadows State Park

A journey preserved: Southwest Virginia Museum's Fidel Socin Accordion on exhibit in Richmond

By Guest BloggerPosted March 26, 2026
The Southwest Virginia Museum Historical State Park is proud to share that one of its significant artifacts, a rare Fidel Socin accordion, is currently on loan to the Virginia Museum of History and Culture through September 2026.
Ranger Greear Standing Next to Fidel Socin accordion

Trail etiquette on Virginia State Parks' rails-to-trails

By Starr AndersonPosted March 25, 2026
Virginia State Parks features four rail-to-trail systems, each offering accessible, scenic routes with gentle grades ideal for walkers, runners, cyclists, e-bike riders, and, except at Staunton River Battlefield, horseback riders.
High Bridge Trail State Park

Livelihood in the Fort

By Emily PricePosted March 24, 2026
Reenactors at Wilderness Road State Park built a fort structure using authentic 18th-century tools and methods, showcasing daily life, craftsmanship and the volunteers' deep dedication to preserving history.
Working on the fort

Virginia’s bats: Hibernation, migration and how you can help them

By Starr AndersonPosted March 16, 2026
As spring arrives, Virginia’s bats are on the move. Some are waking from hibernation, while others are returning home. Whether they’ve spent winter in caves or stayed active in warmer regions, this season is critical for their survival.
Tri-colored bat

Preserving a living landscape at Belle Isle

By Guest BloggerPosted March 12, 2026
Belle Isle State Park is a living landscape shaped by river, history and care. Its trails, oyster reefs and 1767 plantation house show how land, labor and ecology connect. Preservation helps visitors understand its layered past and evolving future.
Boardwalk along the river at Belle Isle State Park.

Where community came before country: A love letter to New River Trail State Park

By Guest BloggerPosted March 12, 2026
New River Trail State Park follows the New River through forests and towns where early ideas of independence took shape. Preserving the trail protects these routes, connecting past and present as visitors reflect, travel and care for the landscape.
The New River

New trail to explore at High Bridge Trail State Park

By Kim WellsPosted March 11, 2026
High Bridge Trails State Park opened a new trail at the beginning of the year that gives guests a unique look underneath the majestic High Bridge.
First Day Hikes at HBT

Bears are waking up: What you need to know for a safe visit

By Starr AndersonPosted March 09, 2026
As winter fades and spring approaches, Virginia's black bears begin emerging from their winter dens. This seasonal shift is an exciting time in our parks, but it's also a time to be prepared and respectful of wildlife.
American black bear at Sky Meadows State Park

Becoming a B.A.R.K. Ranger at Staunton River State Park

By Guest BloggerPosted March 03, 2026
R.M. Roosevelt recently packed up his pup and headed to Staunton River for a cabin getaway. While checking out the visitor center, Roosevelt spotted a pamphlet about the B.A.R.K. Ranger program, a fun way for dogs to explore Virginia State Parks.
Staunton River State Park

What's new at Culpeper Battlefields State Park

By Kim WellsPosted February 24, 2026
Visit Virginia's 43rd State Park and see why this land is important to preserve for future generations. Whether you are a local or have to travel to this location, this park is definitely worth the visit to experience history and nature in harmony.
Culpeper Battlefields State Park Fleetwood Hill

6 Ways to Enjoy Great Camping in the Best Parks on the MidAtlantic

By Mary BishopPosted February 10, 2026
In this article we'll explore six different ways to camp at award-winning Virginia State Parks. We think you'll agree, we've got some of the best camping around.
Tent camping brings the outside in - like here at Pocahontas State Park, Virginia

Count Birds for Science: The Great Backyard Bird Count

By Mary BishopPosted February 06, 2026
Every year, the Cornell Ornithology Lab asks the public to count birds in the name of science. Join us in the Great Backyard Bird Count at a park near you!
A Painted Bunting at Kiptopeke State Park, Virginia.

Winter activities at Powhatan State Park

By Kim WellsPosted February 06, 2026
Powhatan State Park is more than just a summer destination as it offers several activities during the wintertime and into the transition to spring. Birdwatching, art programs and fun hikes are all great ways to get outside and make winter memories.
Powhatan sign

10 ways to take on the Trail Quest challenge

By Christen McKeyPosted February 04, 2026
After seven years, my family recently completed our Trail Quest journey. Whether you are well on your way to the goal or have not yet joined the challenge, here are ten ways to get the most out of your quest.
Master Hiker ceremony at False Cape State Park

A legacy refreshed: Renovations at Douthat Lodge

By Starr AndersonPosted February 03, 2026
The Douthat Lodge, built by the Civilian Conservation Corps in the 1930s, will welcome visitors once again this spring following extensive renovations. The work was part of a three-phase project to upgrade Douthat's CCC-era log cabins.
Douthat State Park

Wintertime at Pocahontas State Park

By Kim WellsPosted February 02, 2026
Bundle up and explore Pocahontas State Park! From winter hikes and Jr. Ranger fun to stargazing and archery, there’s something for everyone. Check “Know Before You Go” for updates and make the most of the season outdoors.
Pocahontas sign in the snow

Spring Burning Restrictions February 15 through April 30

By Nancy HeltmanPosted January 29, 2026
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.
We obey the law when it comes to burn bans at Virginia State Parks to help prevent wildfires

Widewater welcomes winter with wonder

By Kim WellsPosted January 23, 2026
Widewater State Park is more than just a summer destination as this park's location is ideal for winter birdwatching and hiking adventures. Located on a peninsula, the park is designed for fun adventures all year long.
Widewater State Park sign


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