Open fires are prohibited throughout the park from midnight to 4 p.m., Feb. 15 through April 30. Learn more.
Read Our Blogs
5 things to experience at Bear Creek Lake State Park
Posted April 08, 2026
Bear Creek Lake State Park is ideal for a day trip or a weekend getaway. The park offers seasonal programs that highlight nature and the wildlife that reside there. There is something for everyone to enjoy at this park, from the lake to the trails.
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.
5 must-do activities at Claytor Lake State Park
Posted May 26, 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.
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.
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.
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.
5 things to do at Chippokes State Park
Posted October 17, 2023
Chippokes State Park is a beautiful location and contains the oldest continually farmed land in the country. The rich history and lovely views of the James River make for a perfect day visit or an overnight getaway.
2 Virginia State Parks complete phase 1 of cabin renovations
Posted May 31, 2023
Douthat and Fairy Stone State Parks have reopened 29 cabins to the public after completing the first phase of their nearly three-year renovation project.
































