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.
Becoming a B.A.R.K. Ranger at Staunton River State Park
Posted March 03, 2026
R.M. Roosevelt recently packed up his pup and headed to Staunton River for a cabin getaway. While checking out the visitor center, Roosevelt spotted a pamphlet about the B.A.R.K. Ranger program, a fun way for dogs to explore Virginia State Parks.
What's new at Culpeper Battlefields State Park
Posted February 24, 2026
Visit Virginia's 43rd State Park and see why this land is important to preserve for future generations. Whether you are a local or have to travel to this location, this park is definitely worth the visit to experience history and nature in harmony.
Wintertime at Pocahontas State Park
Posted February 02, 2026
Bundle up and explore Pocahontas State Park! From winter hikes and Jr. Ranger fun to stargazing and archery, there’s something for everyone. Check “Know Before You Go” for updates and make the most of the season outdoors.
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.
How to enjoy Virginia State Parks in winter
Posted December 31, 2025
How can we make the most of the winter season? Whether at home or in a park, we can explore nature! By taking a hike, creating a nature craft or playing in the snow, we can experience winter to the fullest.
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.
Great ways to welcome winter at Sky Meadows
Posted December 04, 2025
Come to Sky Meadows State Park to enjoy the outdoors, even during the winter months.
An Array of Colors at First Landing State Park
Posted November 19, 2025
A morning hike led to this magical discovery in Virginia Beach.
Trot the trails this Thanksgiving at Virginia State Parks
Posted November 10, 2025
A holiday weekend centered around the gathering of family and friends in gratitude beckons to be spent in the tranquility of Virginia’s outdoors. Trot over to a state park and make a few memories this Thanksgiving!
Favorite Autumn Hikes in Virginia
Posted October 09, 2025
Leaf peepers are always looking for the best place to view the autumn leaves, here are some great suggestions from Virginia State Parks trails.
Grayson Highlands State Park: A unique mountain ecosystem
Posted October 09, 2025
Grayson Highlands is the highest state park in Virginia, with elevations topping 5,089 feet. This altitude creates an environment more like what you’d find hundreds of miles north in New England than what’s typical of the southern Appalachians.
An iconic southwest Virginia State Parks road trip
Posted October 06, 2025
Consider your next incredible scenic road trip by connecting door to door state parks in Virginia's mountains.
Top 5 things to do at Fairy Stone State Park this fall
Posted 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.
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.
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.
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.
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 things to experience at Mason Neck State Park
Posted March 13, 2025
Located in Northern Virginia with recreational access to the water as well as seasonal programs. This park is perfect for adventure or for a quiet getaway from the daily grind
First Master Paddler of Virginia State Parks: Colleen Renderos
Posted December 04, 2024
We asked the first person to complete our Wandering Waters Paddle Quest program to tell us about her experience wandering the waters of 31 Virginia State Parks. For completing the program, Colleen Renderos received her Master Paddler certificate.
































