Open fires are prohibited throughout the park from midnight to 4 p.m. through April 30 per the 4 p.m. Burning Law. This includes wood and charcoal. Gas is permissible. Campground fires are allowed during the restricted time if a camp host is on duty and signage to that effect is posted in the campground. Failure to observe the 4 p.m. Burning Law can result in a fine. Contact the Park Office for additional information.


Fall in Virginia State Parks


Autumn abounds

Get ready to experience fall in Virginia. Whether it be on foot, by bike or on the water, find your favorite colors at a park near you.

All across Virginia this fall, you can enjoy the autumn landscape as the foliage of deciduous trees responds to the changing season. Thanks to our commonwealth’s varying elevations from mountains to shore, we have a long fall foliage season, starting earliest in the higher elevations and moving eastward. Fall colors generally peak between October 10 and October 31; however, these dates can vary from year to year, based on factors such as temperature and rainfall.

Here at Virginia State Parks, we are happy to clue you in to the progress with our annual Fall Foliage Report. Participating parks will share the color changes they’re observing that week. For example, beeches turn from yellow to orange, dogwoods move from red to maroon, and hickory trees transition from gold to bronze. They’ll recommend the best places within their park to see color, and let you know of any special events that make it a great park to visit that week. 

Share Your Shots

This fall season, find new ways to connect with nature and get outdoors for some fresh air. Whatever adventure you choose, be sure to share your Virginia State Park photos on social media by using the hashtag #VaStateParks and #FallinVirginia. We want you to join the online conversation!

Remember to visit our Know Before You Go page for the most up-to-date information on recreational opportunities. Help us by doing your part to #RecreateResponsibly.

Sign up for our enewsletter to receive the weekly reports.

Fall eventsCabins are economicalFall Foliage



Here are some of the dramatic leafy trees you may see changing in Virginia

  • Ash turns yellow and maroon
  • Beech turns yellow to orange
  • Dogwood turns scarlet to purple
  • Hickory turns golden bronze
  • Oak turns red, brown or russet
  • Poplar turns golden yellow
  • Red Maple turns brilliant scarlet

FACT: According to the Virginia Department of Forestry about 15.72 million acres, or 62 percent, of Virginia is forested. Hardwood forests make up 79% of all Virginia timberland; softwood forests make up 21%.
See the Department of Forestry's fall report.


Did you know: The Blue Ridge Parkway has more variety of leafy trees that turn color in the fall than Japan?


If you are interested in additional routes for your scenic fall foliage road trip, learn more about fall in Virginia from the Virginia Tourism Corporation.

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