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.
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Category "Hiking20Central"
results in following blogs.
results in following blogs.5 things to experience at Bear Creek Lake State Park
Posted April 08, 2026
Bear Creek Lake State Park is ideal for a day trip or a weekend getaway. The park offers seasonal programs that highlight nature and the wildlife that reside there. There is something for everyone to enjoy at this park, from the lake to the trails.
What does a Virginia State Park Maintenance Ranger do?
Posted April 07, 2026
Consider a job at a Virginia State Park such as maintenance ranger and you might be surprised at much you love it! These hardworking rangers face different adventures each day while gaining knowledge and building skillsets along the way.
Clinch River State Park: An update on Virginia's first blueway state park
Posted April 07, 2026
Clinch River State Park continues to make exciting steps as it develops into Virginia's first blueway state park, blending river-based recreation and land conservation in a way no other state park in the commonwealth has done before.
New merchandise coming to Virginia State Parks in 2026
Posted April 07, 2026
The annual Merchandise Vendor Gift Show is the perfect time for staff to stock up the gift shop for fun and meaningful souvenirs for our guests. Talking to the vendors to better understand their products made it easy to shop for merchandise ideas.
Bikepacking New River Trail State Park: Q&A with Misty Prewitt
Posted April 02, 2026
Bikepacking along New River Trail State Park offers an immersive outdoor experience for riders of all skill levels. If you're not sure how to get started with planning, check out our Q&A with experienced bikepacker Misty Prewitt.
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.
Trail etiquette on Virginia State Parks' rails-to-trails
Posted March 25, 2026
Virginia State Parks features four rail-to-trail systems, each offering accessible, scenic routes with gentle grades ideal for walkers, runners, cyclists, e-bike riders, and, except at Staunton River Battlefield, horseback riders.
Livelihood in the Fort
Posted March 24, 2026
Reenactors at Wilderness Road State Park built a fort structure using authentic 18th-century tools and methods, showcasing daily life, craftsmanship and the volunteers' deep dedication to preserving history.
Virginia’s bats: Hibernation, migration and how you can help them
Posted March 16, 2026
As spring arrives, Virginia’s bats are on the move. Some are waking from hibernation, while others are returning home. Whether they’ve spent winter in caves or stayed active in warmer regions, this season is critical for their survival.
Preserving a living landscape at Belle Isle
Posted March 12, 2026
Belle Isle State Park is a living landscape shaped by river, history and care. Its trails, oyster reefs and 1767 plantation house show how land, labor and ecology connect. Preservation helps visitors understand its layered past and evolving future.
Where community came before country: A love letter to New River Trail State Park
Posted March 12, 2026
New River Trail State Park follows the New River through forests and towns where early ideas of independence took shape. Preserving the trail protects these routes, connecting past and present as visitors reflect, travel and care for the landscape.
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.
Bears are waking up: What you need to know for a safe visit
Posted March 09, 2026
As winter fades and spring approaches, Virginia's black bears begin emerging from their winter dens. This seasonal shift is an exciting time in our parks, but it's also a time to be prepared and respectful of wildlife.
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.
6 Ways to Enjoy Great Camping in the Best Parks on the MidAtlantic
Posted February 10, 2026
In this article we'll explore six different ways to camp at award-winning Virginia State Parks. We think you'll agree, we've got some of the best camping around.
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.
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