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.

Dark Sky Night: Stargazing Under a New Moon

Location of Natural Bridge State Park in Virginia

Where

Natural Bridge State Park, 6477 South Lee Highway, Natural Bridge, VA 24578.
Skyline Trailhead Parking Lot

When

April 13, 2024. 8:00 p.m. - 10:00 p.m.

When the moon is totally hidden, we have the darkest nights and some of the best stargazing! Join park rangers for an exploration of our night sky at this International Dark Sky Park. Pick out constellations, observe planets and nebula through a telescope, and take in the silhouette of the star-lit Blue Ridge Mountains.

Be sure to bring something comfortable to sit on and a red-light flashlight if you have one; it will help preserve your night vision as opposed to a standard white light flashlight. Meet rangers at the Skyline Trail parking lot. A moderate 10-minute hike will be necessary once the program begins.

A haywagon with seats for 20 people leaves at the program's start time to reach the viewing location. Pre-registration for the wagon ride is required (and is not required if you are not taking the wagon); only one wagon runs per night and space is limited. To reserve, please call (540) 254-0795. Tickets for the wagon ride are $2 per person.

All programs are weather dependent. If a program is cancelled due to weather, we will have alternative Dark Sky programs offered indoors. Monitor our website or call the park to receive real-time information at (540) 254-0795.

photo of the park sign at night

Other details

Standard parking or admission fee applies: Yes.
Extra fee: $2/person for wagon ride.
Children welcome: Yes.
Phone: 540-291-1326
Email Address: NaturalBridge@dcr.virginia.gov