Due to the expected impact of the winter storm, all Virginia State Park overnight facilities will be closed from Friday, Jan. 23 through Sunday, Jan. 25. This decision is based on the forecast for unsafe conditions and potential power outages. For updates click here.

Monarch Day

Location of Sky Meadows State Park in Virginia

Where

Sky Meadows State Park, 11012 Edmonds Ln., Delaplane, VA 20144.
Carriage Barn in the Historic Area

When

Aug. 12, 2023. 10:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.

Habitat loss has caused Monarch butterfly populations to reach dangerously low numbers, especially Migratory Monarchs. Join the Park Naturalist and Virginia Master Naturalists as they set out to collect milkweed, Monarch caterpillars and eggs to raise in the park's Visitor Center. Learn how to protect this species by raising Monarchs, improving their habitat and participating in citizen science projects for this at-risk pollinator.

The program will begin with a lecture on Landscaping for Monarch Butterflies by Virginia Master Naturalist, Paul Guay. Directly following, join in Monarch egg and caterpillar collection on an approximately 1.5-mile walk. Milkweed plants are located in high grassy areas; long pants and closed-toe shoes are highly encouraged. Water, snacks, sunscreen and bug spray are also recommended.

Monarch butterfly sits on a wildflower

Other details

Standard parking or admission fee applies: Yes.
Extra fee: No.
Registration required: No.
Children welcome: Yes.
Phone: 540-592-3556
Email Address: SkyMeadows@dcr.virginia.gov