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.

2024 Solar Eclipse Pinhole Viewers

Location of Widewater State Park in Virginia

Where

Widewater State Park, 101 Widewater State Park Road, Stafford, VA 22554.
Picnic Shelter 1

When

April 7, 2024. 1:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m.

When was the last time you viewed a solar eclipse in the USA? Perhaps is was back in 2017, years before then, or maybe never! No matter your eclipse viewing expertise, it is important to follow specific safety guidelines to fully enjoy the experience. The eclipse on April 8th, 2024 is a partial eclipse with only an 88% coverage at the Widewater Peninsula, and so eye protection is required to see it safely.

The next solar eclipse that can be viewed in the lower 48 is not until August 2044! Don't miss out this year because you don't have a safe way to look at the event as it is happening. Come join our park rangers to learn about what a solar eclipse is, how to safely view the eclipse, and craft a pinhole viewer to admire this rare astronomical event.

*If there is inclement weather, this program will be inside the Visitor Center.

A young boy looks into a pin hole eclipse viewer made from a shoebox.

Other details

Standard parking or admission fee applies: Yes.
Extra fee: No.
Children welcome: Yes.
Phone: 540-288-1400
Email Address: widewater@dcr.virginia.gov