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.

Perseid Meteor Shower Viewing Party

Location of New River Trail State Park in Virginia

Where

New River Trail State Park, 116 Orphanage Dr., Max Meadows, VA 24360.
Shelter 1 - Foster Falls Playground and Picnic Area - 116 Orphanage Dr. Max Meadows, Va. 24360

When

Aug. 11, 2024. 9:30 p.m. - 11:00 p.m.

The Perseid meteor shower (also known as the Perseids) is active every year from mid-July to late August. The annual shooting star display will peak on the mornings of August 11, 12, and 13. The Perseids is one of the best meteor showers to observe, producing up to 60 meteors per hour at its peak. It is produced by comet Swift-Tuttle, which was discovered in 1862. Meteors will radiate from the constellation Perseus, but they can appear anywhere in the sky.

Be sure to bring something comfortable to sit on, warm clothes/blankets, snacks and drinks, and a red-light flashlight if you have one; it will help preserve your night vision as opposed to a standard white light flashlight. So, sit back, relax, and enjoy one of nature's best shows!

The program is open to all and will be on the grass lawn outside of Shelter #1 near the playground at Foster Falls. This event is weather dependent; please check the website for a cancellation.

meteor shower

Other details

Standard parking or admission fee applies: Yes.
Extra fee: No.
Children welcome: Yes.
Phone: 276-699-6778
Email Address: NewRiverTrail@dcr.virginia.gov