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.

Messages from the Miocene

Location of Chippokes State Park in Virginia

Where

Chippokes State Park, 695 Chippokes Park Rd., Surry, VA 23883.
Quayle Classroom

When

Feb. 7, 2026. 10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.

Join us as we learn more about the prehistoric history of Chippokes State Park through fossils that can be found right on our beaches! This program will begin in the Quayle Classroom near the Farm & Forestry Museum and will be followed by a hike down to the James River to find and identify fossils. All ages welcome.

All guests are welcome and encouraged to collect shark teeth...yes, this does in fact include if you find a Megalodon tooth (finders keepers). If you find a Megalodon tooth, please do not be afraid to share your findings with a ranger, as we would love to celebrate your scientific discovery.

The walk to beach is approximately 0.3 miles.

A mollusk and shell fragments on the banks of the James River.

Other details

Standard parking or admission fee applies: Yes.
Extra fee: No.
Registration required: No.
Children welcome: Yes.
Phone: 757-294-3728
Email Address: Chippokes@dcr.virginia.gov