What's happening this month in Virginia State Parks
November
Virginia State Parks offer many events in November to kick off the holiday season! Whether it’s recognizing indigenous peoples, celebrating the service of our veterans or learning about our night skies, there is something for visitors of all ages to enjoy. Plus, nothing says ‘holiday spirit’ quite like a turkey run or a parade of trees! And while you’re at it, be sure to celebrate with a hike on one of the state parks’ more than 700 miles of trails. Don't forget to Opt Outside Thanksgiving weekend! Check out the guided hikes along with all the other festive events below.
Events Sampler:
Nov. 1, 2025. 10 a.m. - 5 p.m.
Nov. 2, 2025. 10 a.m. - 4 p.m.
Nov. 2, 2025. 10 a.m. - 4 p.m.
Caledon State Park
Tantalize your senses with the tastes from local wineries and restaurants, the vision of beautiful art from local artists, and the sounds of great music - all in the relaxing and beautiful surroundings of Caledon State Park.
Nov. 1, 2025. 1 - 4 p.m.
Nov. 8 and 15, 2025. 12 - 4 p.m.
Nov. 8 and 15, 2025. 12 - 4 p.m.
Claytor Lake State Park
As the season's change and the leaves begin to turn, Claytor Lake State Park will be doing fall foliage hayrides around the park every Saturday through Nov. 15. An interpretive ranger will be on the trailer giving a tour of the park, discussing why the leaves change colors and other natural things we'll see as we ride around.
Nov. 6 and 20, 2025. 10 a.m. - 3 p.m. (South end)
Nov. 13, 2025. 10 a.m. - 3 p.m. (North end)
Nov. 13, 2025. 10 a.m. - 3 p.m. (North end)
New River Trail State Park
Want to experience the New River Trail State Park in a way few people get a chance to? Join us for a van tour. The tour will follow the trail that was once the rail line of the Norfolk and Western railroad. Pre-registration required.
Nov. 8, 2025. 8:30 a.m. - 3 p.m.
False Cape State Park
Back by Popular Demand! Join the Friends of False Cape for a magical day of creativity and nature at our Wreath-Making Workshop. Create your own handmade wreath craft using natural materials gathered from the park, guided by an expert wreath maker who will help you design a one-of-a-kind masterpiece.
Nov. 8, 2025. Tours start at 5:30, 6:30, 7 and 7:30 p.m.
Sailor's Creek Battlefield State Park
Veterans and their sacrifices are important to us at Sailor's Creek Battlefield.
Staff, volunteers, and period-dressed public historians will be hosting our 16th annual “Veterans Day Luminary” commemorative trail illumination. This year rangers will lead four tours of visitors down an illuminated path where historical vignettes will be recreated by public historians describing the scenes from the Battles of Sailor's Creek and its aftermath.
Nov. 9, 2025. 3 - 6 p.m.
Sweet Run State Park
Join us for an elemental evening at Sweet Run, inspired by fire and water. We’ll begin with a mindful walk along Piney Run, engaging the senses with the forest and stream. Then, gather around a meadow campfire to enjoy wild-foraged tea and community warmth. The night ends with a calming sound bath, echoing the flow of water and the glow of flames.
Nov. 9 - Dec. 31, 2025. 1 - 4 p.m.
Southwest Virginia Museum
A beloved holiday tradition, the Festival of Trees celebrates its 30th year. Get yourself in the mood for the holidays as you enjoy beautifully decorated trees, mantels, banisters and doorways. Each tree is decorated by volunteers representing families, churches, schools, businesses and civic groups around the region. We are also offering night viewings on certain dates.
Nov. 14 & 15, 2025. 6:00 p.m.
James River State Park
As a designated International Dark-Sky Park, we have been working with the International Dark-Sky Association to do our part in protecting our night skies from light pollution, and we invite you to celebrate this wonderful accomplishment with us. This is a unique, two-night opportunity that only comes once a year and will be the largest gathering of astronomers at the park.
Nov. 22, 2025. 10 a.m. - 5 p.m.
Sky Meadows State Park
Join professional outdoor instructor Tim MacWelch to learn about the remarkable seasonal wild edible and medicinal plants of the Blue Ridge Mountains. This full-day hike will cover native and non-native species of useful plants and will conclude with a sampling of the foods you gathered from the wild.
Nov. 22, 2025. 10 - 11 a.m.
Nov. 22, 2025. 11 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.
Occoneechee State Park
The Friends of Occoneechee bring you their second annual Turkey Trot 5K race and fun run/walk. This 5K will take place in the beautiful scenery of Occoneechee State Park, which borders Buggs Island Lake and the attractive lakefront town of Clarksville, VA. Strollers, well-mannered pets on a leash and costumes are also welcome.
Nov. 22, 2025. 8 - 10 a.m.
Caledon State Park
Join the Friends of Caledon for the final race in the 2025 series, the Turkey Chase! This is a non-profit event allowing runners to enjoy a challenging race with varying terrain. Races include 1 mile for all ages and 5K for runners age 13+. This is a dog-friendly event; your leashed furry running partner can run along side you.
Nov. 22, 2025. 12 - 1 p.m.
High Bridge Trail State Park
High Bridge has long stood at the crossroads of technology, war, and community life. Join a ranger at High Bridge Station Visitor Center to uncover the history, engineering, and human stories that have shaped High Bridge and carried it into the modern day. We hope to see you on the trail!
Nov. 28, 2025. 1 - 2 p.m.
Clinch River State Park
Join a ranger for our annual after thanksgiving hike! Come enjoy the end of fall with a guided hike before the winter season arrives! Meeting for this program will be at the Sugar Hill Trail Head.
Nov. 29, 2025. 10 a.m. - 3 p.m.
Fairy Stone State Park
Come join us for Fairy Stone State Park's 4th Annual Holiday Market during small business Saturday. Enjoy local crafts, food and more!
Nov. 28-30, 2025 and dates in December.
Wilderness Road State Park
Join us for a magical and entertaining view of one of our most treasured holidays at the Karlan Mansion. Browse trees uniquely decorated by the local community while enjoying classic holiday music.
Nov. 29, 2025. 5 - 8 p.m.
Southwest Virginia Museum State Park
Visitors will be offered an opportunity to view the museum in a different light. With overhead lights turned off, glowing luminaries and flickering candles guide the way through more than 80 differently decorated trees and displays. It’s a unique way to enjoy one of the longest running holiday traditions in the area.
