What's happening this month in Virginia State Parks
January
Begin the new year at a Virginia State Park with a First Day Hike -- but don't stop there! Our relatively moderate winter temperatures make it easy to layer up and keep hiking all month long. January is a great month to enjoy the openness of the parks now that deciduous trees have lost their leaves. And there's plenty of winter wildlife to see.
Events Sampler:
Tundra Swans are known for their striking white plumage and long, graceful necks, making them a favorite among birdwatchers. Each year, these incredible birds undertake a remarkable migration from their breeding grounds in the Arctic tundra to warmer winter habitats. Meet rangers stationed at the observation decks at the Great Marsh Trail within the Elizabeth Hartwell Mason Neck National Wildlife Refuge.
Jan. 4, 11 & 18, 2026. 12-4 p.m.
False Cape State Park
Take a 4-hour guided tour through Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge and False Cape State Park. Spot winter wildlife from the Blue Goose Tram and learn the history of this spectacular area. Plus, enjoy a 1-mile round trip guided hike through pristine maritime forest to the historic Wash Woods church and cemetery site. Reservations are required.
Jan. 10 & 24, 2026. 1-2:30 p.m.
Sweet Run State Park
Join us for a guided winter hike to discover the hidden homes of park wildlife. Along the trail, we’ll look for squirrel dreys high in the trees, fox dens tucked into hillsides, and other clever shelters animals use to stay safe and warm through the season. Participants will learn how each animal prepares for winter and how to spot signs of their presence without disturbing their homes.
Jan. 10, 2026. 10 a.m.-12 p.m.
Caledon State Park
The bald eagle soars wild and free over the Potomac River. Come learn about the biology and history of this American icon, and find out why so many can be found at Caledon. We'll take a wagon ride to the river and walk along the beach, where we aim to watch eagles as they soar and perch along the shore.
Jan. 17, 2026. 9:30 - 11:30 a.m.
Sweet Run State Park
Join us in the park’s orchard for a special day of learning and community. Beth Sastre from the Virginia Cooperative Extension will guide us through the best pruning practices to help our orchard thrive.
Jan. 17, 2026. 10-11 a.m.
Powhatan State Park
Take a guided walk with a ranger alongside golden meadow and frosty forest to find out who is out and about!
Jan. 17 & 31, 2026. 2-3 p.m.
Claytor Lake State Park
Have you ever thought about making maple syrup at home? Are you simply curious about how maple syrup is made? Join us in the park for Sappy Saturday. We'll simplify the process from tree to treat and show you what you need to make and enjoy Virginia maple syrup, while we can.
Jan. 18, 2026. 1-3 p.m.
Caledon Lake State Park
Waterfowl are wonderful in winter! Meet a ranger inside the Visitor Center to identify birds that winter on the Potomac River and in the wetlands of Caledon State Park. An introduction to waterfowl identification will be followed by a wagon ride to the water to observe and identify these magnificent wintering wonders.
Jan. 19, 2026. 10 a.m.-1 p.m.
York River State Park
This hike honors the shared history of African, European and Native Americans who made their homes along the Mattaponi, Pamunkey and York rivers. We will stop at certain points along the trails, in particular those that highlight the history of Taskinas Plantation (the colonial name for where our park is located) and other areas of historic significance. Reservations required.
Jan. 24, 2026. 9 a.m.- 3p.m.
Grayson Highlands State Park
Join a Ranger on a frosty adventure that highlights three of Grayson Highlands State Park's crown jewels! Enjoy the park during winter in all of her crisp, cool beauty. This journey will start at Massie Gap and take adventurers through the frozen heights of the Twin Pinnacles to see great peaks in three different states, the ice formations in Cabin Creek Gorge and the frost coated alpine meadows of Wilburn Ridge.
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.
Stargazing events
Jan. 3 & 18, 2026. 5-9 8.m.
False Cape State Park
Jan. 16, 2026. 5:30 p.m. - 7:30 p.m.
Widewater State Park
Jan. 17, 2026. 5-8 p.m.
Sky Meadows State Park
Jan. 3 & 31, 2026. 4:30 p.m. - 6:00 p.m.
Widewater State Park
