Open fires are prohibited throughout the park from midnight to 4 p.m., now through April 30. Learn more.

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Category "Learning Opportunities"Clear results in following blogs.

Exploring the new additions to New River Trail State Park

By Starr AndersonPosted April 07, 2025
New River Trail State Park has expanded its offerings with two exciting new features: the Ivanhoe Birding Trail and the Foster Falls Self-Guided Tour.
Ivahoe Birding Trail

5 must-do activities at Raymond R. "Andy" Guest, Jr. Shenandoah River State Park

By Starr AndersonPosted March 24, 2025
Shenandoah River State Park is a hidden gem. With stunning river views, diverse trails and a variety of educational programs, this 1,600-acre park is a perfect destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers of all ages.
Kayaking on the Shenandoah River

Fishing at Virginia State Parks

By Kim WellsPosted 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.
Kayak fishing at Bear Creek Lake

5 parks to explore within an hour of Roanoke

By Starr AndersonPosted March 17, 2025
In addition to its own opportunities for connecting with nature, Roanoke provides you with easy access to five Virginia State Parks: Claytor Lake, Douthat, Fairy Stone, Smith Mountain Lake and Natural Bridge.
Virginia State Parks

Kid-friendly programs: Q&A with kids who love Virginia State Parks

By Christen McKeyPosted February 28, 2025
Ever wonder what activities your kids or grandkids may enjoy during a Virginia State Parks visit? Hattie (age 12) and Cam (age 11) share their favorite experiences over the years. Spoiler alert: there are fun opportunities for all ages!
Earning Junior Ranger badges at Machicomoco State Park

3 must-do activities at Southwest Virginia Museum Historical State Park

By Starr AndersonPosted February 24, 2025
While every Virginia State Park is unique, Southwest Virginia Museum Historical State Park stands out from the rest. It primarily focuses on history and culture; however, you don't have to be a history buff to fall in love with this park.
Southwest Virginia Museum Historical State Park

A resource management career at Virginia State Parks: Kerry O’Neil

By Amy AtwoodPosted February 11, 2025
Kerry O’Neil serves as the Piedmont Region Resource Specialist with Virginia State Parks. She initially dreamed of various careers but found her passion for resource management through her experiences visiting Virginia State parks.
Kerry O

A Virginia State Parks road trip for Black History Month

By Christen McKeyPosted February 01, 2025
February is Black History Month. Take a trip across the state with a focus on the history to learn, honor and celebrate Black Americans and their stories in Virginia State Parks.
Map of parks along the road trip for Black History

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

Everything you need to know about James River’s Roof Top Tent Rally

By Starr AndersonPosted October 02, 2024
James River State Park is teaming up with Blue Ridge Overland Gear again for its annual Roof Top Tent Rally. The special event provides a unique opportunity to connect with fellow overlanders or explore the overlanding lifestyle for the first time.
Roof Top Tent Rally


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