Read Our Blogs
5 things to do in the forest for fall break
Posted September 19, 2024
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.
7 campgrounds for beginner campers
Posted September 18, 2024
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.
A group camping conversation: How to organize a trip that everyone will love
Posted August 12, 2024
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.
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.
5 things to experience when visiting Holliday Lake State Park
Posted July 24, 2024
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.
A Tidewater road trip: Machicomoco, York River and Chippokes
Posted July 17, 2024
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!
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.
8 parks with waterfront campsites
Posted May 10, 2024
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!
Family-friendly tips for backcountry camping
Posted April 08, 2024
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!
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.
Planning a winter getaway to James River State Park
Posted December 18, 2023
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.
5 things to do at Machicomoco State Park
Posted October 24, 2023
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.
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.
Youngest Master Hiker to complete Trail Quest
Posted July 19, 2023
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.
5 must-do activities at New River Trail's Foster Falls
Posted July 12, 2023
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.
3 state parks to see in south central Virginia
Posted March 30, 2023
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.
How to be prepared outdoors when severe weather happens
Posted March 07, 2023
Camping and hiking are fun recreational activities on any regular day, but do you know how to stay safe when severe weather happens? Here are some safety tips that can help save your life if you encounter bad weather during your travels.
Experience a Star Party at Staunton River State Park
Posted March 01, 2023
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.
Getting Ready for the Frozen Foot Adventure Race at Sky Meadows State Park
Posted February 13, 2023
Sky Meadows State Park hosted an Adventure Race in the 2023 Virginia State Parks Adventure Series. Learn what it takes to prepare and hear from a participant on their experience in this blog.
Winter Wildlife Adventures at Virginia State Parks
Posted January 11, 2023
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.