Open fires are prohibited throughout the park from midnight to 4 p.m., Feb. 15 through April 30. Learn more.
Read Our Blogs
The Importance of Vernal Pools
Posted March 30, 2026
Do you know what a vernal pool is and what animals live there? Vernal pools are important for some species survival. I highly recommend checking out a Vernal Pool Program at a Virginia State Park to learn more about these pools first-hand.
13 Spring Birding Adventures at Virginia State Parks
Posted March 27, 2026
Whether you're new to birding or an old hat, you will want to learn more about these fun spring birding adventures at Virginia State Parks.
A journey preserved: Southwest Virginia Museum's Fidel Socin Accordion on exhibit in Richmond
Posted March 26, 2026
The Southwest Virginia Museum Historical State Park is proud to share that one of its significant artifacts, a rare Fidel Socin accordion, is currently on loan to the Virginia Museum of History and Culture through September 2026.
New trail to explore at High Bridge Trail State Park
Posted March 11, 2026
High Bridge Trails State Park opened a new trail at the beginning of the year that gives guests a unique look underneath the majestic High Bridge.
Count Birds for Science: The Great Backyard Bird Count
Posted February 06, 2026
Every year, the Cornell Ornithology Lab asks the public to count birds in the name of science. Join us in the Great Backyard Bird Count at a park near you!
Winter activities at Powhatan State Park
Posted 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.
Where to wander this winter
Posted January 19, 2026
Wintertime is here and Virginia State Parks have numerous things for you to do despite the cold weather. Check out the many activities you can do solo or with friends and family to enjoy this winter season.
Virginia State Parks' Ranger Conservation Corps
Posted December 29, 2025
If you’ve ever thought, “I wish I could get paid to hang out in a state park,” then guess what? You can. Virginia State Parks is accepting application for its new internship program, Ranger Conservation Corps.
Virginia birds in "The 12 Days of Christmas"
Posted December 23, 2025
Winter is a great time for birding in Virginia. Participate in the Christmas Bird Count or simply go looking for winter wildlife on your own. Find out which Virginia birds you should be on the look out for this time of year.
Winter Wildlife Adventures at Virginia State Parks
Posted 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.
New River Trail State Park opens first Kids TRACK Trail
Posted November 24, 2025
New River Trail State Park has opened a Kids in Parks TRACK Trail in Fries, with support from the Friends of New River Trail and the GW and Gail Catron Family. This is the first of many TRACK Trail installations planned throughout the 57-mile park.
6 reasons to visit Natural Bridge this fall
Posted September 30, 2025
When you think of Natural Bridge State Park, the first thing that comes to mind is probably the 200-foot-tall Natural Bridge. This iconic Virginia landmark is truly awe-inspiring, but if you haven't explored the rest of the park, you're missing out.
15 fall festivities at Virginia State Parks
Posted September 11, 2025
With cooler temperatures approaching, this is the perfect time to enjoy the foliage and fall festivities at a Virginia State Park. There are numerous events throughout the Commonwealth for the whole family to enjoy. Get outside and enjoy the season.
Experience a Star Party at Staunton River State Park
Posted 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.
Seven September adventures
Posted 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.
5 things to experience at Caledon State Park
Posted 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.
Field trip and homeschooling opportunities at Virginia State Parks
Posted August 05, 2025
Virginia is home to a diverse array of state parks, each offering unique natural landscapes, rich history and hands-on educational experiences, making them perfect extensions of the classroom.
A Shenandoah road trip: Shenandoah River, Seven Bends and Sky Meadows
Posted 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.
Saving the eastern hellbender and how to see one at a Virginia State Park
Posted July 14, 2025
The eastern hellbender is North America's largest salamander. Unfortunately, the future of the this aquatic giant is uncertain due to habitat loss from damming, sedimentation from logging and mining, agricultural runoff, pollution and flooding.
Reel in the fun fishing at a Virginia State Park
Posted June 06, 2025
Do you want to learn how to fish or experience a refresher course to build your skills? Virginia State Parks provide a wide variety of fishing spots and programs that help you learn the best ways to enjoy your water adventures this summer.
































