Due to the expected impact of the winter storm, all Virginia State Park overnight facilities will be closed from Friday, Jan. 23 through Tuesday, Jan. 27. This decision is based on the forecast for unsafe conditions and potential power outages. For updates click here.

Read Our Blogs

Category "Bird Watching"Clear, Search "Virginia Outdoors"Clear results in following blogs.

Where to wander this winter

By Kim WellsPosted January 19, 2026
Wintertime is here 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.
Winter view at a Virginia State Park

How to enjoy Virginia State Parks in winter

By Guest BloggerPosted December 31, 2025
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.
A branch covered in icicles with a mountain overlook out of focus in the background and a bright blue sky above

5 ways to spend more time in nature in 2026

By Starr AndersonPosted December 22, 2025
If your New Year's resolution is to spend more time outside this year, look no further than Virginia State Parks. With 44 unique parks from the Cumberland Gap to the Atlantic Ocean, the opportunities for outdoor adventures are endless.
Douthat State Park

5 things to experience at Mason Neck State Park

By Kim WellsPosted March 13, 2025
Located in Northern Virginia with recreational access to the water as well as seasonal programs. This park is perfect for adventure or for a quiet getaway from the daily grind
Aerial view of Mason Neck State Park

Colorful winter woods at Virginia State Parks

By Guest BloggerPosted 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.
Rainbow swamp at First Landing State Park by Katherine Scott.

Slowing down to see the signs of spring

By Adam DanielPosted March 16, 2023
Spring break is a great time to get outside and see the returning wildlife. Hike a few trails and see what life is budding outside at a state park.
Hike with friends during spring break

Fall Activities at Virginia State Parks

By Kim WellsPosted October 06, 2022
Festivals, pumpkin painting, tree decorating, birdwatching, stargazing, water adventures and many more activities are available at Virginia State Parks this fall. Get some new ideas on how to make the most of your park visit.
Kids painting pumpkins at a fall festival

Life is Full of Options: Top Reasons to Choose Virginia State Parks

By Shellie AnnePosted May 08, 2019
Many of you might be new to Virginia or may have just discovered Virginia State Parks and are wondering what to do there. You've come to the right place!
Paddling is great fun for families, couples, friends and even groups at James River State Park

By Park