Open fires are prohibited throughout the park from midnight to 4 p.m., Feb. 15 through April 30. Learn more.

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Wintertime at Pocahontas State Park

By Kim WellsPosted 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.
Pocahontas sign in the snow

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

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

5 things to do when you visit Staunton River Battlefield State Park

By Kim WellsPosted June 10, 2024
Virginia State Parks are full of history and Staunton River Battlefield is no different, but this park offers so much more than just a history tour. Located along the Staunton River, this location provides visitors with many recreational activities.
Battlefield view at Staunton River Battlefield

How to have the best stargazing adventure in Virginia State Parks

By Haley RodgersPosted February 22, 2024
Looking for the best places to stargaze in Virginia State Parks? A good place to start is to visit one of our four state parks that are designated as International Dark Sky Parks. Let us give you tips to make it a great experience!
A dark black sky filled with stars and a dense spot in the middle that glows orange

Natural Tunnel becomes first in state to install special viewfinder for colorblind visitors

By Starr AndersonPosted July 07, 2023
We are proud to be the first location in Virginia to offer the EnChroma colorblind viewfinder. It's equipped with special lenses from EnChroma designed to help those with red-green Color Vision Deficiency (CVD) experience colors.
Ethan Howes

3 state parks to see in south central Virginia

By Haley RodgersPosted March 30, 2023
An itinerary for you to see three state parks in three days in south central Virginia: Occoneechee, Staunton River and Staunton River Battlefield State Parks. Find out the best way to experience these parks and get closer to completing Trail Quest.
Photo collage of Staunton River trailhead with tall pines in background, a standup paddleboard at the shores of Buggs Island Lake at Occoneechee State Park, and a view of the Staunton River Battlefield Bridge while standing at the end

Seven Stroller Friendly Places to Walk

By Kim WellsPosted August 31, 2022
Seven stroller-friendly places to walk in a Virginia State Park that provide a nice outdoor adventure for you and your family. Short and long scenic walks are available, and all strolls are a great way to connect with nature and the family.
Mulberry Creek Boardwalk at Belle Isle State Park

A Ranger's Favorite Hike

By Guest BloggerPosted February 10, 2019
Working for Virginia State Parks, Ranger Blevins gets to hike many trails, but here is her favorite.
Sunrise in the mountains at Hungry Mother State Park

Hiking with Kids: 3 Trails for Beginners at Virginia State Parks

By Shellie LeetePosted November 19, 2018
Start your kids out on the right foot by hiking and enjoying the great outdoors found at Virginia State Parks. Here are three trails with some extra tips to help you out.
Hiking provides fresh air, exercise and a great natural change of scenery and you


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