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.

Homeschool: Spooky Species

Location of Widewater State Park in Virginia

Where

Widewater State Park, 101 Widewater State Park Road, Stafford, VA 22554.
Visitor Center

When

Oct. 27, 2025. 11:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.

"What can be more curious than that the hand of a man...and the wing of the bat, should be constructed on the same pattern, and should include the same bones, in the same relative positions." - Charles Darwin

This October, homeschoolers will delve into the world of shadows and mystery, unveiling the truth behind some of nature's spookier subjects. Owl pellet dissections, bone-yard puzzles, and myth-busting facts that will drive you batty, are some of the themes for the month's programs.

*Note: The same program is offered twice a week, on Monday morning and Wednesday afternoon.

Mondays, 11AM-12PM

10/6 : Owls

10/13 : Skeleton Crew

10/20 : Bats

10/27 : Haunted Hike

Wednesdays, 1PM-2PM

10/8 : Owls

10/15 : Skeleton Crew

10/22 : Bats

10/29 : Haunted Hike

As the days are getting shorter and the weather becomes cooler, make sure to wear weather-appropriate clothing and bring a bottle of water to stay hydrated. Hikes and other outdoor activities should be anticipated for any of these programs.

Deer skull sitting on a brown bench with autumn leaves in the background.

Other details

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