Open fires are prohibited throughout the park from midnight to 4 p.m. through April 30 per the 4 p.m. Burning Law. This includes wood and charcoal. Gas is permissible. Campground fires are allowed during the restricted time if a camp host is on duty and signage to that effect is posted in the campground. Failure to observe the 4 p.m. Burning Law can result in a fine. Contact the Park Office for additional information.

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Top 6 Reasons to Visit Virginia State Parks for Spring Break

By Nancy HeltmanPosted March 09, 2022, Original Publish Date March 18, 2021

 

Last updated on February 27, 2024

We're excited that it's nearly time for spring break, because that means it's the perfect time to take the family outdoors.

We're all jumping for joy that it's spring break in Virginia State Parks
Jumping for joy that spring is nearly here! (First Landing State Park)

Here are six reasons to visit one or more Virginia State Parks, and take advantage of this time together. 

1. SPECIAL PROGRAMMING

Not sure what to do at the park? Let us help! All 42 Virginia State Parks offer self-guided or ranger-led programming to make it easy to get outdoors and enjoy the beginning of spring. Find a list of programs here.

Panning for Gold at Lake Anna State Park, Va
Ranger-guided panning for gold program.

2. ENDLESS TRAILS TO EXPLORE

With 600 miles of trails to choose from, spend time in the woods or along the major waterways of Virginia for pleasure and/or exercise. Did you know you can track your visits to each Virginia State Park and earn pins along the way? Do this online through our Trail Quest program. Sign up and start logging parks you have already visited now. Once you hike at each state park you earn the coveted title of Master Hiker. This quest is a great motivator to get the whole family outdoors regularly!

3. SPRING BRINGS OUT THE BLOOMS, BIRDS & BEES

Spring is a great time to observe wildlife and plants as nature wakes up after its winter sleep.

Cherry blossoms close up with a path in the background leading to a pavillion on the edge of Claytor Lake
Blossoming tree at Claytor Lake State Park.

4. GO FOR A FAMILY PHOTO SHOOT

There are so many natural picturesque backdrops throughout our state parks. Bring your smart phone or camera to take pictures with your family. Post to Instagram using #vastateparks to share your spring break experiences. Sometimes the random family photos taken in our parks are the most treasured.

Taking a selfie at Natural Tunnel State Park
Selfie in front of the tunnel at Natural Tunnel State Park.

5. VISIT FOR FREE - THANKS TO THE LIBRARY

Many libraries in Virginia offer nature backpacks to check out. In addition to some handy tools to investigate the natural world, the backpacks include a parking pass for no cost entrance to the park. Find participating libraries here.

6. A GREAT PLACE TO STAY

Most Virginia State Parks offer campsites or cabins that can be reserved to make your visit last longer than a day. Contact our customer service center at 800-933-7275 or book online.

Claytor Lake Camping
Consider a family camping trip for spring break. Photo by Kenton Steryous.

You can even stay in one park and visit other state parks in the surrounding area. The communities around our Virginia State Parks also feature attractions to visit during your stay. Each park's web page has a section that includes ideas of what to do in the local area.

FIND A PARK

Your family will thank you for the memories!

“When families and friends spend moments together in Virginia State Parks, those moments become lifetime memories that are cherished forever. Spring break is the perfect time to get outdoors to shed those winter blues and enjoy what parks have to offer."  - Craig Seaver, former Virginia State Parks Director

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If you have read the article and have a question, please email nancy.heltman@dcr.virginia.gov.

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