You are probably all master Googlers by now, but sometimes we just need a simpler solution, like a point in the right direction to finding great things to see and do at Virginia State Parks.

That is where this blog comes in, I will call it the ultimate guide to fun, well at least an introductory to fun, let's explore.

SAND BETWEEN YOUR TOES

Spectacular sunsets over the Chesapeake Bay from First Landing State Park in Virginia Beach

Kiptopeke State Park has two beaches with a fishing pier on the Eastern Shore of Virginia

We have two Virginia State Parks located on the Chesapeake Bay, and "guarded swimming" is unavailable at the beach, but swimmers using these areas can do so at their own risk. Beachcombing, fishing, crabbing, kitesurfing, and more can be done here. Visit the beach just before sunset with friends, family or just the one you love and you may even see a pod of dolphins.

• First Landing
• Kiptopeke

New this year and worth noting: Kiptopeke State Park now offers overnight accommodations in two and three bedroom cabins, as well as the family lodges and campground. 

Swimming is available in pools, lakes and rivers at Virginia State Parks, most with lifeguards in the summer season. Click here for the full list.

EAT YOUR HEART OUT

There are two neat lakefront restaurants open seasonally that you are sure to enjoy while visiting the park overnight at a cabin or campground, or just spending the day at the park:

Douthat State Park's Lakeview Restaurant

Dine at Douthat State Park's seasonal waterfront restaurant

Catch a colorful sunset over the lake from the deck of the Lakeview Restaurant

Douthat's Lakeview Restaurant is an original CCC facility, is a full-service restaurant that overlooks the lake and has recently been renovated. It features a glass enclosed porch overlooking the lake, and central heat and air. A deck at the restaurant seats up to 32 people and can be rented for private parties. Here is the restaurant's menu (PDF).

Hungry Mother State Park's The Restaurant

The Restaurant at Hungry Mother State Park is waterview and extra delicious

Hungry for inside or outdoor seating at The Restaurant at Hungry Mother State Park

Be sure to enjoy an another original CCC facility, the park's full-service, park-operated The Restaurant. Dine inside or outside on the deck with big umbrellas and views of the paddleboats as they cruise around the lake. Hours vary seasonally. See the restaurant's menus: brunch (PDF), lunch (PDF), and dinner (PDF).

Call ahead if you are making a special trip to enjoy these great eateries, Douthat State Park 540-862-8100, or for Hungry Mother State Park 276-781-7400.

LIFE'S A PICNIC

Picnic tables in the fall near the boat launch at Smith Mountain Lake State Park

Who doesn't love eating in the great outdoors? Parks are perfect places to dine outside with a packed picnic or cook out. Whether you're looking to have a romantic picnic for two, or for a large group, we have something to fit the bill. Most parks have picnic areas with shelters and playgrounds, and restrooms, but they also provide picnic tables scattered near waterways and scenic areas.

If you want to find something more intimate than a playground picnic area, ask the park staff, they will be happy to share their favorite place to enjoy lunch. Trust me when I say, they all have them. They love Virginia State Parks beautiful outdoor settings as much as we do.

Click here to learn more about picnicking at Virginia State Parks.

PONIES RUNNING WILD

Hike to see the wild ponies at Grayson Highlands State Park

Hike to see the wild ponies at the state park with the highest elevation, Grayson Highlands State Park. Pick wild blueberries, take in the breathtaking scenery, tackle a short section of the Appalachian Trail, go bouldering and observe the wild ponies as they forage along the balds and bluffs. Ask the other Park'rs where they saw the ponies as they come back to the main arteries of the park, or ask staff, so they can point you in the best direction.

Most see them by going up on the Rhododendron Trail to Wilburn Ridge, but the ponies are free to roam about, so if you really want to see them ask someone. Park recreational info here.

CABINNING

The awesome view of the Blue Ridge foothills from two bedroom cabin 12 at James River State Park

Take in the sunsets over the meadow from the deck and covered porch

Cabin 12 at James River State Park is neither close to the water, nor really on a mountain, but the view will still knock your socks off. You have to drive down to the river to go tubing, or to visit the Discovery Center, but that is okay. Being set apart, sitting single file along the edge of a meadow, with the far off sound of a train whistle in the distance as it rounds the curve of the river make it extra special. 

I don't think cabinning is really a word, but in my book it means getting away from the daily grind, and escaping to the wilds of Virginia State Parks. My favorite parks feature cabins in the woods, with decks and fireplaces, and some even have views.

Virginia State Parks provide affordable overnight accommodations with over 300 cozy, climate-controlled cabins throughout the state.

ULITMATE HELPFUL HINT

Park'rs if you can't make plans until the last minute, remember the last minute discount where you call the reservation center on the Thursday or Friday for that coming weekend and save 25% off any available cabin. Click here to check on availability and to reserve online or call 800-933-7275 Monday through Friday, 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. 

WHAT DO YOU WANNA DO?