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.

For a park that has been a part of the Virginia State Parks system for more than 40 years and a working farm for more than 200 years, Sky Meadows State Park is keeping things fresh with a new trail and an addition to the campground.

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.

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.

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.

Whether or not you are a student, taking a fall break is good for mind, body and spirit! And Virginia State Parks are filled with green spaces that can help you refresh and enjoy the autumn season to the fullest.

Whether you're a camping beginner or just beginning to consider camping, the pleasant fall season is a great time to give it a try. Check out these Virginia State Park campgrounds and learn how to make a first-time camping trip less intimidating.

Interested in planning a camping trip for a large group but not sure where to begin? This conversation with a group leader who recently organized a James River State Park trip may inspire you to pull off an epic outdoor adventure for your group.

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.

Holliday Lake State Park is a hidden gem in Appomattox that offers a variety of activities and scenery for all to enjoy. Whether you want a self-guided adventure or ranger-led activity, this park is a must visit destination.

Whether you're working on your Trail Quest journey or ready for the next camping excursion, this three-park itinerary offers a “choose your own adventure” road trip. Summer is a great time to enjoy these state parks in the Tidewater area!

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.

Pitch your tent or park your RV at one of these eight Virginia State Parks for a picturesque overnight stay. Campsites with water views provide a serene spot to relax after a day of outdoor adventure!

Planning a hike-in or bike-in primitive camping trip with kids doesn't have to be intimidating. Experience the unique features of these Virginia State Parks with a few backcountry camping tips for a fun family adventure!

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.

Machicomoco State Park is Virginia's 40th state park and is truly a special place to visit. The park has a unique history and is surrounded by diverse wildlife habitats that provide a perfect place to anyone to enjoy.

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.

At only 4 months old, Ezra Hernandez is the youngest person to earn his Master Hiker certificate for completing the Trail Quest Program. His mother Kaylee used her maternity leave to bond with her newborn son through outdoor experiences together.

There is no shortage of activities for visitors at New River Trail. The 57-mile linear park has more than 10 different access points; however, the Foster Falls area serves as a great activity hub no matter your interest.

An itinerary for you to see three state parks in three days in south central Virginia: Occoneechee, Staunton River and Staunton River Battlefield State Parks. Find out the best way to experience these parks and get closer to completing Trail Quest.