Open fires are prohibited throughout the park from midnight to 4 p.m., Feb. 15 through April 30. Learn more.
Read Our Blogs
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.
Mother and daughter become Virginia Master Hikers and Master Naturalists together in 1 year
Posted 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.
Welcome spring at Douthat State Park
Posted March 31, 2025
Spring is in the air, and adventure is calling! After the quiet of winter, Douthat State Park is coming back to life, offering visitors beautiful views, fresh mountain air and a range of outdoor activities.
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.
What's new at Sky Meadows State Park?
Posted March 14, 2025
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.
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 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!
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.
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.
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.
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.
































