You know you need some of this, you can't go on the same way every day without getting it, with your batteries drained. Relax, recharge and rekindle that love for the great outdoors at a Virginia State Park.

Here are ten reasons why you need to escape the madness and come see us this fall: 

1. Sometimes you have to lose yourself to discover who you are

Douthat State Park has 43 miles of trails, bring your mountain bike, or pack a picnic. There are waterfalls, scenic views and a plethora of wildlife to enjoy. This is the ideal place to find yourself again.

2. Life is better at the beach

When the beaches are closed a soft hush falls over the landscape welcoming the next season. Lake Anna State Park has trails that meander around the water and the coves. Or you can bring a kayak or canoe and gently paddle this beautiful lake.

3. You will cross that bridge when you get to it

Just behind picnic shelter 1 along the shores of the Dan River you will find this little footbridge covered in fallen leaves at Staunton River State Park. It crosses a seasonal creek, and makes for the perfect place to plant a kiss.

4. Listen with your heart

You will find Holliday Lake State Park deep within the Appomattox-Buckingham State Forest in central Virginia. A quiet walk in the woods at this woodsy retreat is just what the doctor ordered, and a tonic for your heart and soul.

5. Mama told me there'd be days like this

It is less than an hour's drive to escape the mad city life found in Richmond and encounter the much slower pace of Bear Creek Lake State Park. Sit on the dock surrounded by autumn scenery and peep at the leaves while the stress tenderly drips away.

6. I can see for miles and miles

Your worries will fade far away and will become smaller and smaller in the grandiose mountains of Grayson Highlands State Park. You will ask yourself why you do not come here more often.

7. Enjoy life now, this is not a rehearsal

It takes a place to get away from it all to remember what is truly important, and Fairy Stone State Park has just the spot. At times we cannot see the forest through the trees and all we have is now. Since we are not promised a tomorrow, we need to grab the bull by the horns and enjoy it.

8. Take time to smell the coffee

Pack an overnight bag and escape to a Virginia State Park cabin. Fall is the perfect time to light a crackling fire in the fireplace, and enjoy a hot cup of morning coffee outside in the crisp fall air with family or friends. If you don't do it now, when will you? 800-933-PARK.

9. You're in my heart you're in my soul

Take the slow road at Westmoreland State Park and allow the outside in. Watch the soaring bald eagles, hunt for sharks' teeth on the fossil beach, or walk a trail or two. You will say "Be still my beating heart" as you breathe deeply and quietly look around this lovely park. This place is chicken soup for the soul.

10. Because everybody should fall in love...with Virginia State Parks

Beloved woodlands, mountains and a placid lake make Hungry Mother State Park the perfect fall destination. It is about as far away from the madness of the day to day grind of life as you can get. One of the crown jewels in the Virginia State Parks system, will warmly welcome you home.

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