Merchandise sales locations will be closed state-wide for the required annual inventory beginning Wednesday, April 15 and will reopen when completed on April 16.
Open fires are prohibited throughout the park from midnight to 4 p.m., Feb. 15 through April 30. Learn more.
Read Our Blogs
Category "Get20Outside"
results in following blogs.
results in following blogs.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.
10 ways to take on the Trail Quest challenge
Posted February 04, 2026
After seven years, my family recently completed our Trail Quest journey. Whether you are well on your way to the goal or have not yet joined the challenge, here are ten ways to get the most out of your quest.
A legacy refreshed: Renovations at Douthat Lodge
Posted February 03, 2026
The Douthat Lodge, built by the Civilian Conservation Corps in the 1930s, will welcome visitors once again this spring following extensive renovations. The work was part of a three-phase project to upgrade Douthat's CCC-era log cabins.
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.
Spring Burning Restrictions February 15 through April 30
Posted January 29, 2026
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.
Widewater welcomes winter with wonder
Posted January 23, 2026
Widewater State Park is more than just a summer destination as this park's location is ideal for winter birdwatching and hiking adventures. Located on a peninsula, the park is designed for fun adventures all year long.
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.
Give your Christmas tree a second life
Posted December 30, 2025
Hungry Mother and Fairy Stone state parks can help you get rid of your live Christmas tree after the holidays and help the fish!
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.
5 ways to spend more time in nature in 2026
Posted December 22, 2025
If your New Year's resolution is to spend more time outside this year, look no further than Virginia State Parks. With 44 unique parks from the Cumberland Gap to the Atlantic Ocean, the opportunities for outdoor adventures are endless.
5 Favorite Cozy Cabins for Winter
Posted December 18, 2025
A winter getaway is a great way to mentally clear out the year-end junk and prepare for a bright new year ahead. Fortunately, we have hundreds of cabins at Virginia State Parks for that needed escape.
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.
5 activities for visiting Claytor Lake State Park this winter
Posted December 10, 2025
When most people think of visiting Claytor Lake State Park, they picture warm summer days filled with boating and swimming. But if you come during winter, you’ll experience a quieter side of the park that’s well worth the visit.
Empowering tomorrow’s rangers: A Q&A with 5 former interns
Posted December 09, 2025
We caught up with former interns whose experiences helped shape their careers and whose stories highlight the lasting impact of Virginia State Parks’ commitment to developing future outdoor professionals.
Planning a winter getaway to James River State Park
Posted December 08, 2025
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.
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.
Winter fishing and more at Smith Mountain Lake State Park
Posted December 03, 2025
When you think of Smith Mountain Lake State Park, you probably think of summer boating and swimming. But the fun doesn’t stop at this 1,248-acre park just because it’s winter.
Visiting Grayson Highlands State Park in the off-season
Posted December 02, 2025
As temperatures drop and snow begins to fall in the Blue Ridge Mountains, Grayson Highlands State Park transforms into a winter wonderland, offering unique cold-weather adventures.
Search for blogs
By Park
Categories
Cabins
Camping
Fishing
History and Culture
Other
Programs and Events
Trails
Volunteers
Water Fun
Archive
2026
2025
2024
2023
2022
2021
2020
2019
2018
2017
2016
2015
2014
2012
