Due to the expected impact of the winter storm, all Virginia State Park overnight facilities will be closed from Friday, Jan. 23 through Tuesday, Jan. 27. This decision is based on the forecast for unsafe conditions and potential power outages. For updates click here.

Free Parking Days for Virginia State Park License Plate Holders

Location of Widewater State Park in Virginia

Where

Widewater State Park, 101 Widewater State Park Road, Stafford, VA 22554.
Throughout the Park

When

May 16, 2026. 8:00 a.m. - 8:30 p.m.

Virginia State Park license plate owners will receive free parking on the following dates, as well as special discounts and offers provided throughout the year.

2026 Dates

Earth Day : Wednesday, April 22nd

Arbor Day :Friday, April 24th

Kids to Parks Day : Saturday, May 16th

Virginia State Parks Anniversary Day : Monday, June 15th

Veterans Day : Wednesday, November 11th

Opt-Outside Day : Friday, November 27th

Take advantage of these free parking dates to go hike the trails, participate in programs offered at your local state park, and enjoy the outdoors! Please note that different parks will have varying opening/closing hours depending on the location and time of year.

Revenue from the sale of these plates will be used to improve, maintain, and conserve Virginia State Parks.

Virginia State Parks license plate

Other details

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

Event types

Kids/Family | Outdoor/Nature/Natural History | Special Event

Additional dates

Free Parking Days for Virginia State Park License Plate Holders - April 22, 2026. 8:00 a.m. - 8:00 p.m.
Free Parking Days for Virginia State Park License Plate Holders - April 24, 2026. 8:00 a.m. - 8:00 p.m.
Free Parking Days for Virginia State Park License Plate Holders - June 15, 2026. 8:00 a.m. - 9:00 p.m.
Free Parking Days for Virginia State Park License Plate Holders - Nov. 11, 2026. 8:00 a.m. - 5:30 p.m.
Free Parking Days for Virginia State Park License Plate Holders - Nov. 27, 2026. 8:00 a.m. - 5:30 p.m.