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 "Outdoor Activities"Clear results in following blogs.

The Importance of Vernal Pools

By Kim WellsPosted 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.
A small pool of water in a forest blanketed with leaves, with eggs floating on the surface

13 Spring Birding Adventures at Virginia State Parks

By Mary BishopPosted 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.
Listening is a key part of birding, and the best way to locate them. Red headed woodpecker at Sky Meadows State Park

New trail to explore at High Bridge Trail State Park

By Kim WellsPosted 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.
First Day Hikes at HBT

Winter activities at Powhatan State Park

By Kim WellsPosted 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.
Powhatan sign

10 ways to take on the Trail Quest challenge

By Christen McKeyPosted 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.
Master Hiker ceremony at False Cape State Park

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

Widewater welcomes winter with wonder

By Kim WellsPosted 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.
Widewater State Park sign

Where to wander this winter

By Kim WellsPosted 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.
Winter view at a Virginia State Park

5 ways to spend more time in nature in 2026

By Starr AndersonPosted 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.
Douthat State Park

Winter Wildlife Adventures at Virginia State Parks

By Kim WellsPosted 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.
Tundra Swans at Mason Neck

Great ways to welcome winter at Sky Meadows

By Guest BloggerPosted December 04, 2025
Come to Sky Meadows State Park to enjoy the outdoors, even during the winter months.
Winter at Sky Meadow

Trot the trails this Thanksgiving at Virginia State Parks

By Christen McKeyPosted November 10, 2025
A holiday weekend centered around the gathering of family and friends in gratitude beckons to be spent in the tranquility of Virginia’s outdoors. Trot over to a state park and make a few memories this Thanksgiving!
Cabin at Fairy Stone State Park

Eight great lakes at Virginia State Parks

By Kim WellsPosted October 16, 2025
Fall is the perfect time to check out these stunning lakes across the Commonwealth. See the colorful reflections of the trees, enjoy a nice hike around the lake or maybe do some fishing. Go have your next fall adventure today!
Buggs Island Lake at Occoneechee

Favorite Autumn Hikes in Virginia

By Guest BloggerPosted October 09, 2025
Leaf peepers are always looking for the best place to view the autumn leaves, here are some great suggestions from Virginia State Parks trails.
Experience the fall views from above the lake at Douthat State Park, Va

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

By Guest BloggerPosted October 01, 2025
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

6 reasons to visit Natural Bridge this fall

By Shellie LeetePosted September 30, 2025
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

The future of Virginia’s Mayo River State Park

By Starr AndersonPosted September 15, 2025
Along the Virginia–North Carolina border, the Mayo River winds through a landscape rich in natural beauty and cultural history. This scenic waterway is now the centerpiece of a growing conservation and recreation effort that spans two states. 
Mayo River State Park

5 great fall getaways to start planning now: Piedmont

By Shellie LeetePosted September 10, 2025
These amazing fall getaways include incredible nearby attractions like breweries, wineries and unique historic sites to explore.
Cabins are in a wooded location along the shores of Buggs Island Lake at Occoneechee State Park, Va

Seven September adventures

By Kim WellsPosted August 27, 2025
Summer isn't over yet and there is still plenty of time to enjoy the outdoors at a Virginia State Park. Cooler temperatures mean more outdoor activities for all so check out these seven activities you won't want to miss this September.
Pocahontas Premieres

Field trip and homeschooling opportunities at Virginia State Parks

By Starr AndersonPosted August 05, 2025
Virginia is home to a diverse array of state parks, each offering unique natural landscapes, rich history and hands-on educational experiences, making them perfect extensions of the classroom.
Douthat State Park


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