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.

Geminids Meteor Shower

Location of Staunton River State Park in Virginia

Where

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

When

Dec. 7, 2026 12:00 a.m. - Dec. 17, 2026 11:00 p.m.

The Geminids meteor shower is considered by many to be the best of the year, producing up to 120 multicolored meteors per hour at its peak. It is produced by debris left behind by an asteroid known as 3200 Phaethon, which was discovered in 1982. The shower runs annually from December 7-17. The peak in 2026 will be on the night of the 13th and morning of the 14th. The waxing crescent moon will set early in the evening leaving dark skies for what should be an excellent show. The best viewing will be from a dark location after midnight. Meteors will radiate from the constellation Gemini but can appear anywhere in the sky.

This year our Stories of the Stars observation session will run on the night of the peak of the Geminids meteor shower (December 13th)! Our astronomers will remain on the field longer than normal to help guide this event. There will be telescopes to view other objects during the formal session.

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 astronomers present for an extended period during this session.

meteor shower

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