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 "Wildlife20Viewing"Clear results in following blogs.

Natural Bridge installs RightHear Accessibility system for guests who are blind or have low vision

By Starr AndersonPosted August 21, 2024
Natural Bridge State Park, home to the iconic 200-foot Natural Bridge, has become the first state park in the U.S. to install the RightHear Accessibility system, taking a pioneering step toward inclusivity.
RightHear

Echoes of Valor: The Civil War Combat at Farmville, VA in 1865

By Guest BloggerPosted August 15, 2024
Virginia State Parks offer so much history in addition to the recreational activities. High Bridge Trail is known for its High Bridge, but it also contains a rich history that the rangers are always looking to share with the public.
Modern day High Bridge

A group camping conversation: How to organize a trip that everyone will love

By Christen McKeyPosted August 12, 2024
Interested in planning a camping trip for a large group but not sure where to begin? This conversation with a group leader who recently organized a James River State Park trip may inspire you to pull off an epic outdoor adventure for your group.
Group camping at James River State Park

EnChroma-adapted viewfinders have been installed at all Virginia State Parks

By Starr AndersonPosted August 07, 2024
Virginia State Parks has become the first park system in the nation to install EnChroma-adapted viewfinders for colorblind guests at each of its locations.
Chief Ranger Ethan Howes uses the EnChroma viewfinder

Explore indoors at a Virginia State Park

By Kim WellsPosted July 25, 2024
Don't let the rain, extreme heat or cold hinder your plans to visit a Virginia State Park. Here are five great ways to stay entertained at the park's indoor exhibits.
People indoors on a rainy day

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

Birds nesting in unexpected spots at Machicomoco State Park

By Guest BloggerPosted July 10, 2024
Machicomoco State Park provides the perfect location for birding. AmeriCorps member Grayson Nelson shares his experience seeing birds and their nests in unexpected places at the park.
Eastern Bluebird. Photo courtesy of Cornell Lab

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

10 summer bucket list parks for family adventure

By Christen McKeyPosted May 15, 2024
Are you planning a summer bucket list of activities for your family? Set a goal of experiencing fun outdoor adventures together and find something the whole family can enjoy at these ten Virginia State Parks!
A group canoeing Hungry Mother lake

8 parks with waterfront campsites

By Christen McKeyPosted May 10, 2024
Pitch your tent or park your RV at one of these eight Virginia State Parks for a picturesque overnight stay. Campsites with water views provide a serene spot to relax after a day of outdoor adventure!
A campsite with a lake view in Lakeside Campground

Lodges: Virginia State Parks' best kept secret

By Guest BloggerPosted May 07, 2024
Get inspired to book a lodge for a group at Virginia State Parks. Avid visitor and writer Jenna Conner-Harris gives you all the information you need to know for a group getaway.
“Typical” lodge and six-bedroom floor plan used with most Virginia State Park lodges; this one is at Shenandoah River State Park.

High Bridge Trail State Park completes extension into Pamplin

By Kim WellsPosted April 24, 2024
High Bridge Trail now connects to Pamplin City after many years in the making and DCR is excited to be a part of the town's story. This new western terminus is a great place to start your trek on High Bridge Trail State Park.
Ribbon cutting at High Bridge Trail new extension

Family-friendly tips for backcountry camping

By Christen McKeyPosted April 08, 2024
Planning a hike-in or bike-in primitive camping trip with kids doesn't have to be intimidating. Experience the unique features of these Virginia State Parks with a few backcountry camping tips for a fun family adventure!
Hiking and biking to the backcountry campground from the overnight parking lot at Sky Meadows State Park

How to make the most of a yurt stay at Virginia State Parks

By Haley RodgersPosted March 13, 2024
Staying in a yurt is a unique experience. At Virginia State Parks, we offer them as an alternative to camping, to immerse yourself into nature while enjoying some comforts of a cabin – some call this glamping.
Yurt #1 at Machicomoco State Park in the fall. Photo by Haley Rodgers.

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

A conversation with James, The Ethnic Explorer

By Haley RodgersPosted February 15, 2024
James, The Ethnic Explorer, joins us for a conversation about diversifying the outdoors, Black history, his favorite Virginia State Parks and more!
A collage of three pictures showing 1) a Black man on a mountain biking going through a trail full of fall foliage, 2) a Black man facing the camera on a long bridge wearing a black sweater that says Virginia, and 3) a camper van open showing the set up and a paddle board leaning against the van.

What does a Virginia State Park Interpretive Ranger do?

By Kim WellsPosted January 24, 2024
Being a Virginia State Park interpreter ranger is so much more than just guiding programs and interacting with the public, but it is a big part of the job. If you are passionate about conservation and enjoy working outside, consider this job.
Ranger and volunteers inspect oyster cages.

A Legacy Fulfilled: Sky Meadows receives funding to make Lost Mountain Trail more sustainable.

By Laura SchliesskePosted January 10, 2024
The Friends of Sky Meadows Trail Legacy Campaign has been an ongoing fundraiser since 2019. We have reached the goal of raising $28,000 to make trail improvements that will reduce erosion so that our trails can be enjoyed by future generations.
Four smiling park rangers showing thumbs up and presenting a sign that reads "Friends of Sky Meadows Trail Legacy Campaign" with a painted picture of a red thermometer topped up at $28,000


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