Douthat Campsite Cook-off

Location of Douthat State Park in Virginia

Where

Douthat State Park, 14239 Douthat State Park Rd., Millboro, VA 24460.
Whispering Pines Campground

When

Oct. 4, 2025. 11:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m.

Join us on Oct. 4 for a mouth-watering day of friendly competition at our 10th annual Campsite Cook-off presented by Friends of Douthat State Park.

This cooking showdown is like no other as our competitors don’t know what they’ll have to prepare until the night before the cook-off, putting their creativity to the test. In the past, we’ve provided turkey breast, oxtail, pork loin, trout, frog legs, and even cauliflower. As a spectator, here’s what you can expect:

Cooking competition: 21 competing teams will have four meats to cook. They will turn in each meat at different times throughout the day. We’ll share the cooking schedule on Facebook the morning of the competition. Make sure to stay for the entire event so you have a chance to try each of the meats.

Voting: Each round, you vote for your favorite competitor. The team with the most votes at the end of the competition wins the People’s Choice Award. Meanwhile our judges will rank the teams each round, and the team with the most points at the end is named the Douthat Campsite Cook-off Champion. There’s also an award for Best Campsite Decoration.

Live music: Enjoy a variety of family-friendly music throughout the day.

Beer: A local brewery will be on site, serving delicious brews for guests 21+.

So, bring the whole family, set up your chairs and be prepared to eat. Admission is $15 per person and free for children 10 and younger. This fee includes all tastings.

Are you interested in competing? Registration opens on March 3 at 9 a.m. and cost $200. This fee is for a team of six and includes a campsite with water and electric hookups, all meats and paper goods for serving. Seasonings, sauces, grills, smokers, etc. are not provided. Registration is limited to 21 teams. For more information, please call 540-862-8114.

Whether you're a seasoned camper-chef or just enjoy good food, the Campsite Cook-off is a fantastic way to savor the flavors of fall in one of Virginia's most beautiful state parks.

Please note: Parking is not available for spectators at Whispering Pines Campground. A shuttle will be provided from Napa Auto Parts located at 2809 Douthat Rd, Clifton Forge, VA 24422.

cook off turn in

Other details

Standard parking or admission fee applies: Yes.
Extra fee: $15/adult; children 10 and under are free.
Registration required: No.
Children welcome: Yes.
Phone: 540-862-8100
Email Address: Douthat@dcr.virginia.gov