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Category "Hiking"Clear results in following blogs.

5 must-do activities at Natural Tunnel State Park

By Starr AndersonPosted March 05, 2025
Located in the scenic Appalachian Mountains, Natural Tunnel State Park is a hidden gem. Many people come here for the 100-foot-tall Natural Tunnel, but they discover quickly that the more than 1,000-acre park has much more to offer.
Natural Tunnel

5 must-do activities at Hungry Mother State Park

By Starr AndersonPosted March 03, 2025
Hungry Mother State Park is a go-to destination for nature lovers. With 3,334 acres of scenic woodlands, a 108-acre lake and abundant activities for visitors of all ages, it's easy to see why this park has been a favorite since 1936.
Molly

5 must-do activities at Smith Mountain Lake State Park

By Starr AndersonPosted February 26, 2025
Smith Mountain Lake State Park has something for every kind of outdoor enthusiast. From water sports to peaceful nature trails, its array of adventures makes it a perfect destination for families, couples and solo explorers.
Boat rentals at Smith Mountain Lake State Park

Colorful winter woods at Virginia State Parks

By Guest BloggerPosted February 24, 2025
Master Naturalist Kelly Roach encourages you to embrace winter on the trail, challenging you to look for color along the way. Learn what evergreen plants to look for, what marcescence is, colorful birds you may see and why the sky is bluer in winter.
Rainbow swamp at First Landing State Park by Katherine Scott.

5 must-do activities at Grayson Highlands State Park

By Starr AndersonPosted February 19, 2025
Tucked away in the Blue Ridge Mountains, Grayson Highlands State Park is a true gem. It's adjacent to two of Virginia's highest mountains, Mount Rodgers and Whitetop, so it offers unforgettable views, challenging trails and a serene atmosphere.
Grayson Highlands

What it's like to do an adventure race at a Virginia state park

By Haley RodgersPosted February 04, 2025
Park regulars participated in an all-women's adventure race at Occoneechee State Park. Read what an adventure race is, what it's like to participate, what you get out of it and how it helps you explore the park system.
Race team and longtime ”bike-buddies” Betty Saxman (left), Veronica Salazar (middle) and Incy Teoh (right).   Photo courtesy of Incy Teoh.

5 ways to spend more time in nature in 2025

By Starr AndersonPosted December 26, 2024
If your New Year's resolution is to spend more time outside this year, look no further than Virginia State Parks. With 43 unique parks from the Cumberland Gap to the Atlantic Ocean, the opportunities for outdoor adventures are endless.
Douthat State Park

B.A.R.K. Ranger Program puts the wow in bow wow

By Kim WellsPosted December 10, 2024
The B.A.R.K. Rangers Program is a fun way to enjoy responsible recreation with your dog while creating lasting memories. You also get a reward for completing the program. While rewards vary by park, adventures exist at all locations.
Bruno and Kim by Twin Lakes sign

Where to wander this winter

By Kim WellsPosted December 09, 2024
Wintertime is around the corner 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.
Winter view at a Virginia State Park

Trail running through Trail Quest: Q&A with Master Hiker, Jessica Hairfield

By Haley RodgersPosted October 29, 2024
Interviewing Master Hiker Jessica Hairfield on her experience with Trail Quest. Jessica is a trail runner who ran on the trails during most of her park visits. She shares her experiences, her favorite parks to trail run at and advice for new runners.
Park ranger presents a certificate that says Master Hiker on it to Jessica who is holding a snake, in front of a sign that reads "Welcome to Pocahontas State Park"

Top 5 things to do at Fairy Stone State Park this fall

By Starr AndersonPosted October 01, 2024
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.
Fairy Stone

5 things to do in the forest for fall break

By Maggi TinsleyPosted 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.
forest setting at Seven Bends State Park

6 reasons to visit Natural Bridge this fall

By Starr AndersonPosted September 16, 2024
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.
Natural Bridge

4 Virginia State Parks within 1 hour of Charlottesville

By Starr AndersonPosted September 10, 2024
Whether you enjoy hiking, boating, biking, fishing or simply relaxing, Bear Creek Lake, James River, Lake Anna and Powhatan state parks are all within an hour's drive of Charlottesville, making them perfect for day trips or weekend getaways.
Virginia State Parks

5 things to experience at Sailor's Creek Battlefield State Park

By Kim WellsPosted August 22, 2024
Sailor's Creek Battlefield State Park offers so much more than just a history lesson. This location is perfect for enjoying plants, flowers and viewing birds and wildlife as well as taking in the many programs and events offered throughout the year.
Hillsman House at Sailor

3 must-do activities at Clinch River State Park

By Starr AndersonPosted August 13, 2024
Clinch River State Park is a hidden gem perfect for immersing yourself in nature. While it is under development, that doesn't mean this 640-acre, and growing, day-use park shouldn't be on your list of places to explore.
Clinch River State Park

5 must-do activities at Wilderness Road State Park

By Starr AndersonPosted August 06, 2024
Whether you're exploring the historical Martin's Station, hiking through beautiful trails, picnicking with family or friends or camping under the stars, Wilderness Road State Park promises a memorable experience.
Martin

5 things to experience when visiting Holliday Lake State Park

By Kim WellsPosted 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.
Fishing at HL

A Tidewater road trip: Machicomoco, York River and Chippokes

By Christen McKeyPosted 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!
The interpretive area at Machicomoco State Park. Photo: Christen McKey

5 ways to explore parks after dark

By Starr AndersonPosted July 11, 2024
While Virginia's state parks are known for their daytime activities, they offer a new world of adventure after dark. From stargazing and firefly watching to owl prowls and moonlit kayaking tours, there's something for everyone.
Fireflies


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