Events in Virginia State Parks

Do you enjoy being creative, or do you prefer science?

With over two thousand acres, the park has a wide variety of life in the wetlands and woods.  Meet with our naturalist/ranger who will help you discover the aquatic, insect, mammal, and plant life in the park’s ecosystems.

How many influential people of Appalachia can you name?

Discover the art of crafting your own paracord bracelet while learning how this versatile tool can prepare you for the unexpected.

Join our costumed interpreters for a demonstration of historical cooking methods in the Jones-Stewart Mansion's original brick kitchen.

Did you know that January 21st is National Squirrel Appreciation Day?

Slither on down and join the Park Ranger for an in depth look into the fascinating lives of some local reptiles.

Murders over moonshine rocked the town of Fayerdale in the 1920s and 30s, leaving a dying town remembered for tragedy rather than the mining operations that once made it a boomtown. Moonshining (illegal whiskey making) was quite prevalent in and around the Fairy Stone State Park area in the early 1900s. Jealousy, greed, and competition often led to feuds, brawls, and even killings.

I'm immune to snake venom, who am I?

How much do you know about Douthat State Park's past?

Every January, during National Hobby Month, folks all over the United States try new hobbies and celebrate their old ones, and Pocahontas State Park is the perfect place to do both.

Walk in the footsteps of moonshiners of decades gone by.

Tundra Swans are known for their striking white plumage and long, graceful necks, making them a favorite among birdwatchers.

Westmoreland State Park invites you to learn about the different fossil types that you can find here along the shoreline, and why, as you create your very own shark tooth necklace keepsake.

It's time for a change.

Join the Rangers each week for story time!

During the winter, deciduous trees make it difficult to tell them apart due to the changing seasons.

On his birthday, the Sailor's Creek Battlefield interpretive team will uncover General Robert E.

Over 80% of waste in America is not recycled.

How many influential people of Appalachia can you name?

Join a ranger on this one-mile trek and discover the different flora and fauna that can be found in the winter. Be sure to wear warm, comfortable shoes and clothes, and bring a water bottle if possible.

Ready, set, crawl, to join General Raphael, our non-releasable rescue eastern box turtle, as we explore more about her and the animal friends she shares her habitat with.

Did you know there was once a thriving "boom town" located where our lake is today?

Everybody needs a chance to unwind and relax while spending time in nature.

Winter Trams at False Cape State Park and Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge offer the unique opportunity to observe and experience the incredible migration of waterfowl.

This hike honors the shared history of African, European, and Native Americans who made their homes along the Mattaponi, Pamunkey, and York Rivers.

Calling all homeschoolers to join the rangers at Pocahontas State Park for monthly programs on the third Monday of the month.

Calling all homeschoolers to join the rangers at Pocahontas State Park for monthly programs on the third Monday of the month.

To brumate, or not to brumate?

Join a Ranger to learn about science and nature at Leesylvania State Park!

Explore the natural and historic world of Twin Lakes State Park with a ranger. This program is part of a homeschool series, but all curious kids are welcome.

Designed to introduce young participants to the wonders of the natural world and foster an appreciation for the environment.

Explore the natural and historic world of Twin Lakes State Park with a ranger. This program is part of a homeschool series, but all curious kids are welcome.

This series of homeschool programs for students aged 8-12 will meet at the Visitor Center at Lake Anna State Park from 10am - 1pm on multiple dates.

Just as caterpillars grow and change, our Caterpillar Club programs are designed to help your little one grow and change.

Do YOU know what the Great Conjunction is?

Looking for something fun and educational to do while you're at the park?

Join a Ranger to learn about science and nature at Leesylvania State Park!

With over two thousand acres, the park has a wide variety of life in the wetlands and woods.  Meet with our naturalist/ranger who will help you discover the aquatic, insect, mammal, and plant life in the park’s ecosystems.

Join a Ranger to learn about science and nature at Leesylvania State Park!

Meet Gertie and Birdie, our Educational Ambassadors, and interact with our knowledgeable rangers while they care for these beloved critters.

Who-who-whooooo's calling?

Grab your binoculars and get outside.  Loudoun Wildlife Conservancy will lead these monthly hikes to discover and identify birds at Sweet Run State Park. We will explore parts of this beautiful 900-acre preserve to see what lives in it and visit its diverse habitats.

Visiting the park and looking for a ranger-led activity?

The bald eagle soars wild and free over the Potomac River.

Discover the wonders of Phenology, the study of the seasonal and cyclical changes in nature, and create your own work of art.

Join us on January 25 at Princess Anne Recreation Center from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. for the Festival Kickoff!

Would you like to have the chance to explore the trails in Powhatan State Park and meet new people?

Enjoy a winter birding adventure to discover duck species and habitats.  In less than a mile we will look for waterfowl from a shallow pond, tidal creek, and the river.  Bald eagles are also frequently found in the area.

There are many stories to tell about Sweet Run State Park.

Create a hand-made, nature-inspired souvenir to take home.

Join a park ranger on a hike to the waterfall and back.

Fishing is a hobby and professional that has passed down from generation to generation.

Join us on January 25 at Princess Anne Recreation Center from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. for the Festival Kickoff!

The Visitor Center is home to two freshwater Red-Eared Slider turtles, Jennika and Venus, and it is time for them to eat.

It's feeding time for two of our ambassador reptiles, Stevie the King Snake and Reba the Corn Snake, and we welcome you to attend this demonstration and learn about these snakes as they prepare to feed on a frozen mouse! .

Douthat State Park is home to many fascinating mammals, including black bears.

Meet a Ranger at the Visitor Center for a guided hike to see if you can spot any of our winter birds.

Calling all naturalists!

Although our compound bows are not made of yew wood like traditional English longbows, they can still help you aim for new goals this year!

Come discover the world of self-publishing!

Keeping up with New Year's resolutions can be stressful.

Join the Northern Virginia Association of Rocketry (NOVAAR) Club as their model rockets go up, up, and away.

Join a ranger to create adorable DIY oyster shell ornaments, using paper napkins, oyster shells from the Potomac River, and a touch of decoupage.  Make a memorable piece to hang on the tree this coming year or a charm to remember your visit to Westmoreland State Park.  There are 10 available spots for this program.  Please register and pay for your spot in-advance by calling or visiting the Visitor Center.

With over two thousand acres, the park has a wide variety of life in the wetlands and woods.  Meet with our naturalist/ranger who will help you discover the aquatic, insect, mammal, and plant life in the park’s ecosystems.

Discover the art of crafting your own paracord bracelet while learning how this versatile tool can prepare you for the unexpected.

This special craft program involves making fun edible ornaments that will serve winter birds as a dependable food source during the cold winter months.  Participants will make a natural bird feeder using pine cones, peanut butter, string, and birdseed.  While creating your bird feeder, learn about some of our common Virginia backyard winter birds.

Have you ever thought about making maple syrup at home?

Waterfowl are wonderful in winter!

Slither on down and join the Park Ranger for an in depth look into the fascinating lives of some local reptiles.

You can help restore the health of the Chesapeake Bay and Virginia’s rivers by participating in Mason Neck's Grasses for the Masses program.

Murders over moonshine rocked the town of Fayerdale in the 1920s and 30s, leaving a dying town remembered for tragedy rather than the mining operations that once made it a boomtown. Moonshining (illegal whiskey making) was quite prevalent in and around the Fairy Stone State Park area in the early 1900s. Jealousy, greed, and competition often led to feuds, brawls, and even killings.

Join us for "Tree Topia" as we uncover the magical realm of trees and their incredible role as habitats!

How much do you know about Douthat State Park's past?

Discover our International Dark-Sky Park!

Come join the storytellers from CHAOS (Chapel Hill Astronomical and Observational Society) on the Observation Field to share the stories of the stars.

Join us for a presentation by guest speaker Bob Sutherland on "Navigating the Night Sky” and learn how to use key constellations to unlock the winter sky and reveal hidden gems he has photographed among the stars.

This special introductory program is designed to provide an in depth look at the fossils that have been found along the Potomac River.  We will explore the world of fossils and the ones that occur here.

Join a ranger, enjoy Big Meadow Trail, and learn about the natural history of Westmoreland State Park.

Experience the charm of winter on the farm!

Every January, during National Hobby Month, folks all over the United States try new hobbies and celebrate their old ones, and Pocahontas State Park is the perfect place to do both.

Walk in the footsteps of moonshiners of decades gone by.

Join the Rangers each week for story time!

Some of Virginia's coolest mammals are rarely seen by humans.

Utilize the magical colors of the swamp during this arts and craft workshop!

Although our compound bows are not made of yew wood like traditional English longbows, they can still help you aim for new goals this year!

Ready, set, crawl, to join General Raphael, our non-releasable rescue eastern box turtle, as we explore more about her and the animal friends she shares her habitat with.

Did you know there was once a thriving "boom town" located where our lake is today?

You can help restore the health of the Chesapeake Bay and Virginia’s rivers by participating in Mason Neck's Grasses for the Masses program.

With over two thousand acres, the park has a wide variety of life in the wetlands and woods.  Meet with our naturalist/ranger who will help you discover the aquatic, insect, mammal, and plant life in the park’s ecosystems.

Bring your current project, plans, or patterns, and work with others doing the same.  If you don’t have a project but would like to contribute, we are looking for some clothing items that we can either wear or display at the park for special events.

Join a Ranger to learn about science and nature at Leesylvania State Park!

Just as caterpillars grow and change, our Caterpillar Club programs are designed to help your little one grow and change.

Join a Ranger to learn about science and nature at Leesylvania State Park!

With over two thousand acres, the park has a wide variety of life in the wetlands and woods.  Meet with our naturalist/ranger who will help you discover the aquatic, insect, mammal, and plant life in the park’s ecosystems.

Bring your canine companion and join the B.A.R.K.

Join a Ranger to learn about science and nature at Leesylvania State Park!

Meet Gertie and Birdie, our Educational Ambassadors, and interact with our knowledgeable rangers while they care for these beloved critters.

Did you know January 31st is National Hot Chocolate Day?

Explore an enchanting evening amidst the rolling Blue Ridge Mountains as the sun sets and the world transitions from day to night!