Due to the expected impact of the winter storm, all Virginia State Park overnight facilities will be closed from Friday, Jan. 23 through Sunday, Jan. 25. This decision is based on the forecast for unsafe conditions and potential power outages. For updates click here.

Girl Scouts Love State Parks

Location of Claytor Lake State Park in Virginia

Where

Claytor Lake State Park, 6620 Ben H. Bolen Dr., Dublin, VA 24084.
Claytor Lake State Park

When

Sept. 12, 2025 4:00 p.m. - Sept. 14, 2025 8:00 p.m.

Explore our park and learn something new with some special programming:

Friday, Sept. 12:

4 p.m. Survival 101: Fire Starting @ the Interpretive Campfire Circle in Campground D
What does fire mean to you? For our ancestors, fire often meant survival. Today's emphasis will be on fire-starting. All participants will get a chance to start a fire without the assistance of matches or lighters and then receive their fire-starting certificate. Everyone attending will get a copy of Claytor Lake State Park's Survival Guide and a wide variety of survival skills can be discussed

7 p.m. Friday Night Fishing @ the Meeting Facility
Where's the best place to fish? Join the rangers for a short discussion of fishing techniques. This event is for beginners as well as accomplished fisherman. A valid Virginia fishing license is required for those 16 years old or older.

Saturday, Sept. 13:

2 p.m. Survival 101: Survival Bracelets @ the Interpretive Campfire Circle in Campground Dogwood
What is paracord and what is it used for? Make your own paracord survival bracelet and learn how it can be used in a survival situation.

4 p.m. Predator vs. Prey @ the Interpretive Campfire Circle in Campground Dogwood
Are you predator or prey? Join the rangers for a fun game of cat and mouse to see which one you are.

7 p.m. Camping 101 @ the Campfire Circle in Campground Dogwood
Can you pitch a tent? Do you have all your gear? How do you stay warm at night? Join us with a campfire and s'mores for all kinds of primitive camping tips to make your stay more enjoyable!

Self-guided Opportunities:

Girl Scouts Love State Parks Patch Program: As part of this year's national Girl Scouts Love State Parks weekend, activity booklets are available through your council website. Show the cover page for free parking.

Virtual Tree Tour: Learn how to identify trees as you hike from the Howe House to the beach. For more information check out the detailed event listing here.

Track Trails: Find our track trail opportunities at the Shady Ridge Trailhead (near Shelter 2) and go on a fun an interactive hike for all ages! Don't forget to visit to track your hike when you're done for free prizes.

photo of a park trail

About Girl Scouts Love State Parks

Every September, during Girl Scouts Love State Parks weekend, Virginia State Parks offers a variety of programs to connect Girl Scouts with nature while earning badges. From guided hikes and plant identification to campfire building and backpacking basics, this special weekend helps Girl Scouts learn outdoor skills, build confidence and become advocates for the environment.

Other details

Standard parking or admission fee applies: Yes.
Extra fee: No.
Registration required: No.
Children welcome: Yes.
Phone: 540-643-2500
Email Address: ClaytorLake@dcr.virginia.gov