Virginia State Parks offer numerous programs throughout the year, even during winter. Scenic day and evening hikes, birdwatching, stargazing and going on scavenger hunts are just a few fun things to consider this season.

Winter sunrise at Smith Mountain Lake State Park

I have compiled a list of some events and programs at various park locations that people of all ages can enjoy. There are numerous locations that offer seasonal programs and showcase wonderful light displays and decorations, so visit our events page for the full list.

Enjoy your winter park adventures!

Self-guided programs

For those looking for a solo adventure or plan to travel in a small group, Virginia State Parks offer many self-guided experiences that you can participate in at your own leisure during the winter season. Visit the web page for more details on self-guided activities.

Hiker explores the trails at First Landing State Park

Free Battlefield Museum and Gallery Tours are available at Sailor’s Creek Battlefield State Park year-round at the visitor center from 9 a.m. until 4 p.m. Rare artifacts include a variety of weapons, artillery shells, bullets, buttons, personal items, flags and equipment. Detailed maps offer views of the armies as they crisscrossed the countryside trying to outmaneuver one another until they clashed at a small stream called Sailor's Creek. Park staff and education specialists are always available to answer any questions that arise. A Self-Guided Battlefield Driving Tour is free and available to guests from sunrise to sunset. You can also hike the Battlefield Trails.

Junior Ranger Programs are a great way to get kids more aware of their surrounding while they learn about nature, farming, parks and so much more. Junior Ranger Booklets are available at the park office during office hours.  When the booklet is completed, stop by the park office and a park ranger will check your work, administer the Junior Ranger Pledge and present the official Junior Ranger badge. Parks that offer this program year-round include Kiptopeke, Sky Meadows, Bear Creek, Pocahontas, Smith Mountain Lake and Staunton River State Park. Visit the Junior Ranger webpage for more details and the full list of free downloadable pdf versions of the park booklets.

Civilian Conservation Corps Geocaching Adventure is available at Hungry Mother State Park. Visit the Discovery Center to grab a booklet that will take you and your kids on adventure through time in Hungry Mother State Park. As you will learn, Hungry Mother is one of Virginia's six original state parks that was constructed by the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC). Bring a global positioning device or cell phone with location services and embark into the park to see what you can learn about its history. If you find all 10 geocaches and make a rubbing of the tool in the booklet, bring it back to the Discovery Center for a special prize. 

Tundra Swans at Mason Neck State Park

Birdwatching is another great way to spend time outdoors while watching the migratory patterns of these magnificent creatures. Consider visiting Mason Neck State Park to view the seasonal Tundra Swans. Check out the wildlife residents at the park as well as those that stop by during winter migration. Visit the birdwatching events page for winter wildlife activities at more park locations.

Ranger-led programs

If you are looking for an outdoor adventure and want to learn about the park or trail environment, then check out the many ranger-led activities this season. Check out the web page for the full list of activities

Twin Lakes State Park offers ranger-led hikes with the theme Journey Though Time; one on February 10, 2024,  and the other on February 24, 2024. During this one-mile trek, a ranger will guide you on a journey through time on Goodwin Lake Trail telling stories about the trees, sticks, stones and the park land. Be sure to dress for cold weather. T

Embark on a winter wonderland adventure with a Snow Moon Hike at Pocahontas State Park on February 24, 2024, from 6 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. at the visitor center. Reservations are required. Please call 804-796-4472 or email Rebecca.Whalen@dcr.virginia.gov.

Winter guided hike at Pocahontas State Park

Powhatan State Park will host a ranger-led hike on February 24 from 10 a.m. until 12 p.m. Learn about the park and its terrain as well as the wildlife that live in and visit the area.

Stars out at Hungry Mother State Park

Stargazing is another way to enjoy the winter sky and spend some time outdoors. Parks usually host local astronomy clubs and provide experts along with equipment to view the stars and planets. Consider visiting York River, High Bridge Trail, Staunton River or Sky Meadows State Park for some unique sky viewing opportunities. Check out the full list of events for you to check out the star-filled winter sky.

Shopping at Virginia State Parks

Join us in the new year for the annual First Day Hikes where you are encouraged to spend time outdoors at a Virginia State Park as you kickoff a new year. All park locations will have something for everyone to enjoy whether you fly solo or plan to have adventures with a small groups of friends and family.

Be sure to stop by the park’s gift shop to purchase a memento from your outdoor adventure.

Merchandise at Seven Bends State Park

Remember that gift giving for holidays, birthdays and any special occasion are a unique chance for you to express your admiration for someone. Consider giving the special gift of making lasting memories together at a Virginia State Park. Rent cabins, campsites, picnic shelters, or buy annual passes and merchandise with a gift certificate. You can purchase a gift certificate online or by phone at 800-933-7275 and select option 5. Check online here for more details.

Whatever activities you decide to partake in, we wish you Happy Winter Wanderings!