Open fires are prohibited throughout the park from midnight to 4 p.m., Feb. 15 through April 30. Learn more.
Read Our Blogs
10 ways to take on the Trail Quest challenge
Posted 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.
A legacy refreshed: Renovations at Douthat Lodge
Posted 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.
Spring Burning Restrictions February 15 through April 30
Posted 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.
5 Favorite Cozy Cabins for Winter
Posted December 18, 2025
A winter getaway is a great way to mentally clear out the year-end junk and prepare for a bright new year ahead. Fortunately, we have hundreds of cabins at Virginia State Parks for that needed escape.
5 activities for visiting Claytor Lake State Park this winter
Posted December 10, 2025
When most people think of visiting Claytor Lake State Park, they picture warm summer days filled with boating and swimming. But if you come during winter, you’ll experience a quieter side of the park that’s well worth the visit.
Planning a winter getaway to James River State Park
Posted December 08, 2025
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.
Winter fishing and more at Smith Mountain Lake State Park
Posted December 03, 2025
When you think of Smith Mountain Lake State Park, you probably think of summer boating and swimming. But the fun doesn’t stop at this 1,248-acre park just because it’s winter.
Eight great lakes at Virginia State Parks
Posted October 16, 2025
Fall is the perfect time to check out these stunning lakes across the Commonwealth. See the colorful reflections of the trees, enjoy a nice hike around the lake or maybe do some fishing. Go have your next fall adventure today!
Is There Glamping at Virginia State Parks? How About a Yurt
Posted October 15, 2025
Experience the park from a new perspective when you stay in a Virginia State Park Yurt.
Top 5 things to do at Fairy Stone State Park this fall
Posted October 01, 2025
Fairy Stone State Park is the perfect place to make memories this fall, here is our list of the top five things to make it happen.
5 great fall getaways to start planning now: Piedmont
Posted September 10, 2025
These amazing fall getaways include incredible nearby attractions like breweries, wineries and unique historic sites to explore.
Fishing at Virginia State Parks
Posted March 20, 2025
Whether you prefer fishing in lakes, rivers, creeks, oceans or the bay, there are plenty of places to cast your line at a Virginia State Park. To enjoy more time on the water be sure to book your stay in a cabin, campground, yurt or lodge.
5 parks to explore within an hour of Roanoke
Posted March 17, 2025
In addition to its own opportunities for connecting with nature, Roanoke provides you with easy access to five Virginia State Parks: Claytor Lake, Douthat, Fairy Stone, Smith Mountain Lake and Natural Bridge.
5 must-do activities at Claytor Lake State Park
Posted March 12, 2025
Claytor Lake State Park is a go-to destination for water enthusiasts. Its 4,500-acre lake offers roughly 4 miles of lake frontage, including a sandy beach. While the water draws many people in, it's not all this park offers.
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.
5 must-do activities at Occoneechee State Park
Posted July 31, 2024
Located along the shores of Buggs Island Lake, Occoneechee State Park is a treasure trove of natural beauty and outdoor adventure. The park offers a diverse range of activities that cater to nature lovers, explorers and those just looking to unwind.
Explore indoors at a Virginia State Park
Posted July 25, 2024
Don't let the rain, extreme heat or cold hinder your plans to visit a Virginia State Park. Here are five great ways to stay entertained at the park's indoor exhibits.
5 must-do activities at Staunton River State Park
Posted July 11, 2024
Staunton River State Park is a great place to escape to the great outdoors with family and friends. The park is open year-round, and you can make overnight reservations for camping and cabins up to 11 months in advance.
Lodges: Virginia State Parks' best kept secret
Posted May 07, 2024
Get inspired to book a lodge for a group at Virginia State Parks. Avid visitor and writer Jenna Conner-Harris gives you all the information you need to know for a group getaway.
How to make the most of a yurt stay at Virginia State Parks
Posted March 13, 2024
Staying in a yurt is a unique experience. At Virginia State Parks, we offer them as an alternative to camping, to immerse yourself into nature while enjoying some comforts of a cabin – some call this glamping.
































