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

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Category "Camping"Clear results in following blogs.

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

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

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

Winter Wildlife Adventures at Virginia State Parks

By Kim WellsPosted December 15, 2025
Wintertime is the perfect time to view wildlife at a Virginia State Park. Enjoy a ranger-led or self-guided program that showcases the birds and wildlife that reside at the park. Bring your binoculars so you can better view these stunning animals.
Tundra Swans at Mason Neck

Planning a winter getaway to James River State Park

By Starr AndersonPosted 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.
Tye River Overlook

Eight great lakes at Virginia State Parks

By Kim WellsPosted 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!
Buggs Island Lake at Occoneechee

Is There Glamping at Virginia State Parks? How About a Yurt

By Shellie LeetePosted October 15, 2025
Experience the park from a new perspective when you stay in a Virginia State Park Yurt.
Experience the park from a new perspective when you stay in a Virginia State Park Yurt - this is at Powhatan State Park, Va

Top 5 things to do at Fairy Stone State Park this fall

By Guest BloggerPosted 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.
Fairy Stone

6 favorite fall camping spots at Virginia State Parks

By Shellie LeetePosted September 09, 2025
When the temperatures drop, it signals the perfect time for camping in my book. If you're like me, we love to say bye-bye to the heat of summer, the insect repellent and sunscreen.
Overlooking the dock and Lakeside Campground at Douthat State Park, va

Experience a Star Party at Staunton River State Park

By Guest BloggerPosted September 09, 2025
Find out what it's like to attend a star party and why you should plan to attend one at Virginia State Parks. Staunton River State Park is one of our four Dark Sky Parks that host star parties that are out of this world.
A nighttime photo with stars shining above an half orange sky as the sunsets over Staunton River State Park

Seven September adventures

By Kim WellsPosted August 27, 2025
Summer isn't over yet and there is still plenty of time to enjoy the outdoors at a Virginia State Park. Cooler temperatures mean more outdoor activities for all so check out these seven activities you won't want to miss this September.
Pocahontas Premieres

A Potomac road trip: Westmoreland, Caledon, Widewater, Leesylvania and Mason Neck

By Christen McKeyPosted August 22, 2025
Explore five Virginia State Parks along the Potomac River: Westmoreland, Caledon, Widewater, Leesylvania, and Mason Neck. Enjoy camping, hiking, birdwatching and paddling in these scenic and historic locations.
Campsite at Caledon State Park

5 things to experience at Caledon State Park

By Kim WellsPosted August 05, 2025
Caledon State Park is the perfect place to enjoy some peace and quiet just outside of Northern Virginia. The trails are ideal for hiking, biking and birdwatching and the scenic overlook of the Potomac is something you will want to experience.
Caledon aerial

A Shenandoah road trip: Shenandoah River, Seven Bends and Sky Meadows

By Christen McKeyPosted July 29, 2025
With the Shenandoah River as a centerpiece and three state parks within an hour’s drive from one another, there are many reasons to make a trip to this northwestern part of the state. Learn how to enjoy all three of these state parks.
View from Cullers Overlook

How to make the most of a camping cabin stay at Virginia State Parks

By Christen McKeyPosted July 01, 2025
Camping cabins at Virginia State Parks are the perfect blend of rustic simplicity and comfortable convenience. Find out how to make the most of this fun type of overnight stay.
Camping Cabin 42 at Shenandoah River State Park

Camping and paddling at Machicomoco State Park

By Guest BloggerPosted June 30, 2025
Ralph Heimlich is an experienced paddler and member of Chesapeake Paddlers Association who is sharing his adventures during his trip to Machicomoco State Park. He and his group camped at the park and enjoyed some time on the water.
Camp site with bathhouse in background

Honoring lifelong campers: Johnny and Diane Hottle's love for Douthat State Park

By Starr AndersonPosted June 18, 2025
As one of the original six Virginia State Parks to open in 1936, Douthat State Park has long been a go-to destination for nature lovers, families and thrill seekers. Among its most loyal visitors are Johnny and Diane Hottle.
Johnny and Diane Hottle

5 must-do activities at Sky Meadows State Park

By Laura SchliesskePosted 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.
Sky Meadows view behind the visitor center

Mother and daughter become Virginia Master Hikers and Master Naturalists together in 1 year

By Guest BloggerPosted 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.
Left: Mother and daughter pose with their Master Hiker certificates after completing Trail Quest. Right: Daughter lays in between all their trail maps and car tags from park visits.


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