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.

Quadrantids Meteor Shower

Location of Staunton River State Park in Virginia

Where

Staunton River State Park, 1170 Staunton Trail, Scottsburg, VA 24589.
Observation Field

When

Jan. 1, 2026 12:00 a.m. - Jan. 5, 2026 11:00 p.m.

The Quadrantids meteor shower is an above average meteor shower with up to 40 meteors per hour at its peak. It is thought to be produced by dust grains left behind by an extinct comet known as 2003EH1, which was discovered in 2003. The shower runs annually from January 1-5 with the peak this year being the night of the 3rd and morning of the 4th. The full moon will hide all but the brightest meteors. The best viewing will be after midnight and meteors will radiate from the constellation Bootes, but can be seen anywhere in the sky.

Guests are welcome to gather on the Observation Field during this event and watch for meteors. We recommend chairs or blankets for stargazing during this event because of the wide-open space. Telescopes and binoculars are not necessary. Parking is available in the Visitor Center parking lot, and the restrooms will be open. There will be no ranger facilitating the program during this self-guided event.

meteor in night sky

Other details

Standard parking or admission fee applies: Yes.
Extra fee: No.
Registration required: No.
Children welcome: Yes.
Phone: 434-572-4623
Email Address: StauntonRiver@dcr.virginia.gov