Merchandise sales locations will be closed state-wide for the required annual inventory beginning Wednesday, April 15 and will reopen when completed on April 16.
Open fires are prohibited throughout the park from midnight to 4 p.m., Feb. 15 through April 30. Learn more.
Read Our Blogs
Reel in the fun fishing at a Virginia State Park
Posted June 06, 2025
Do you want to learn how to fish or experience a refresher course to build your skills? Virginia State Parks provide a wide variety of fishing spots and programs that help you learn the best ways to enjoy your water adventures this summer.
First B.A.R.K. Ranger Ambassador Percy models the principles at Machicomoco State Park
Posted June 05, 2025
The B.A.R.K. Ranger program is a self-guided activity that encourages visitors to safely explore parks while protecting the natural environment. Learn about Machicomoco's first ambassador, Percy.
10 Cool Things for Kids to Do This Summer: Teens
Posted June 04, 2025
School break and graduation are here, so let's find some cool things for young adults to do this summer at Virginia State Parks. This is part 2 and we'll explore fun stuff to do for teens, age 13-18.
6 trails less traveled
Posted June 03, 2025
Add these six less-traveled trails to your weekday plans for a peaceful outdoor adventure at Virginia State Parks.
Discovering Natural Bridge State Park's visitor center
Posted May 27, 2025
Located just 2 miles off Interstate 81, Natural Bridge State Park draws visitors from near and far. While the iconic limestone bridge and breathtaking scenery are the main attractions, the visitor center is an essential part of the park experience.
Camaraderie on the trail with Girls Who Hike Virginia
Posted May 27, 2025
Hiking can be more enjoyable with larger groups, and the Girls Who Hike Virginia demonstrated this while completing the Trail Quest program. Achieving Master Hiker status after visiting all the state parks is one of many milestones for this group.
Water safety at Virginia State Parks
Posted May 23, 2025
Virginia State Parks offer many opportunities for water recreation. Follow these water safety guidelines to get the most out of your experiences!
What's new at Holliday Lake State Park
Posted May 20, 2025
Holliday Lake State Park has undergone a few changes over the past year. These changes are positively noticeable, and it is worth taking a trip to the park to see what's new. You can camp here or stay at a nearby park to enjoy the area longer.
Mosquito Fish: Natural Pest Control
Posted May 15, 2025
The mosquito fish is a native and natural means of controlling pesky mosquitoes. They are also related to popular aquarium pets.
A birder's top 5 Virginia State Parks for birding
Posted May 07, 2025
Discover insights from a birder about her favorite Virginia State Parks for birdwatching. Get recommendations on specific trails or areas within the parks that are ideal for seeing birds.
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.
Birding festival 1st weekend in May at Hungry Mother honors longtime volunteer Randy Smith
Posted April 29, 2025
Hungry Mother State Park is hosting a birding festival. Life's Extras Birding Celebration will honor the life of long-time volunteer and Virginia Master Naturalist Randy Smith. It will be held annually the first weekend in May.
5 must-do activities at Sky Meadows State Park
Posted April 28, 2025
Rich in history, Sky Meadows State Park can be your gateway to adventurous recreation. Situated in the Crooked Run Valley on the eastern side of the Blue Ridge Mountains, this spot provides a multitude of options for exploring nature.
Hiking Molly's Knob at Hungry Mother as a Master Naturalist
Posted April 25, 2025
What a Virginia Master Naturalist sees along the trail while hiking to Molly's Knob at Hungry Mother State Park.
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.
5 must-hike trails to overlooks at Sky Meadow State Park
Posted April 04, 2025
Sky Meadows State Park is known for its panoramic vistas of the surrounding pastoral landscape and offers several hiking trails that take you to some of these famous overlooks.
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.
4 women in law enforcement at Virginia State Parks
Posted March 28, 2025
DCR's law enforcement rangers go beyond traditional policing; they serve to protect people and Virginia's natural and cultural resources. Among these professional are women breaking barriers in a historically male-dominated field.
A state park wedding: Naturally beautiful, naturally budget-friendly
Posted March 26, 2025
Get an inside look into a state park wedding as Courtney Raihall shares insights from her special day. Whether it's a simple outdoor elopement or an elaborate event, Virginia State Parks offer breathtaking backdrops for any style or budget.
6 ways to spend Earth Day
Posted March 20, 2025
Get inspired to give back on Earth Day! Virginia State Parks are hosting events across the commonwealth for you to attend.
































