National Kids to Parks Day

Location of Douthat State Park in Virginia

Where

Douthat State Park, 14239 Douthat State Park Rd., Millboro, VA 24460.
Discovery Center

When

May 17, 2025. 11:30 a.m. - 6:00 p.m.

Celebrate National Kids to Parks Day with us and experience the wonders of Douthat State Park from a whole new perspective: through the eyes of a child.

11:30 a.m. Douthat Dwellers: Frogs: What animal inspired a popular children’s game? You guessed it, it’s a frog. We have many native frogs, and each have unique qualities that make it special.

1 p.m. Fish Printing: Douthat’s lake is home to some big, beautiful trout. Lucky enough to reel one in but you don’t have a camera? How would you record this catch for proof? Catch us to learn the ancient Japanese art of Gyotaku. We will make fish prints that you can take home with you.

3 p.m. Insect Detectives: Put on your detective hat and uncover the secret world of bugs. Discover how these tiny creatures play a big role in our ecosystems as we search for insects. Then, take a closer look under magnification to see their incredible details up close.

6 p.m. Frog Slog: Hop on over for a hands-on adventure into the world of frogs. Join park staff as we search for some of Virginia’s native frog species and their tadpoles. We'll explore their watery habitats, listen closely for their unique calls, and try our hand at catching and identifying these amazing amphibians. Along the way, you'll learn about their behaviors, life cycle, and the important roles they play in our ecosystem. Be sure to wear closed-toed shoes; you’ll be wading into frog territory!

These programs are conducted in accordance with Virginia state law; park staff possess the proper training and permits to briefly collect and handle wildlife.

Kids looking under a rock

About National Kids to Parks Day

Virginia State Parks celebrates National Kids to Parks Day on the third Saturday in May by offering a variety of fun, family-friendly activities, from nature scavenger hunts and ranger-led hikes to fishing clinics and flora and fauna wagon rides. This annual event encourages kids to explore the outdoors while learning about wildlife and engaging in hands-on environmental education.

Other details

Standard parking or admission fee applies: Yes.
Extra fee: No.
Registration required: No.
Children welcome: Yes.
Phone: 540-862-8100
Email Address: Douthat@dcr.virginia.gov