COVID-19 update: Please take a moment to read this important park update. Last Update: May 28, 2021

Between 06/27/2021 and 07/07/2021
(438) Events Found For All Event Types

     


Bear Creek Lake State Park
22 Bear Creek Lake Rd., Cumberland, VA 23040
Phone: 804-492-4410   Email Address: BearCreek@dcr.virginia.gov
Web Site: www.dcr.virginia.gov/state-parks/bear-creek-lake
DateEvent
06/04/2021
     To       
06/30/2021
June All Month Virtual Fishing Competition
Location: Bear Creek Lake only
From June 1 to 30, 2021, join in the park's virtual Fish 'n Photos contest. Every participant that submits a valid photo or video using the details and rules will be entered for a chance to win in the follow categories:
The Trifecta: Send a picture of 3 different fish species you caught during the month.
The Longest: Snap a picture of your catch next to a measuring tape from nose to tail.
The Shortest: Snap a picture of your catch next to a measure tape from nose to tail for a chance to win the honor of the shortest catch.
Best Fish Face: Submit a selfie of you and your catch with the best face.
The Reel Deal: Enter a video under 1 minute of your catch, your best cast, lake scenery or a fish eye view. The winner will be selected from the most creative.
Open to all ages. The winner in each category will receive a $50 Virginia State Parks gift certificate. The runner up in each category will receive a Bear Creek Lake State Park tee shirt. Individuals may win in only one category.
For contest rules, and to submit a photo, contact bcguide@dcr.virginia.gov
06/23/2021
     To       
06/30/2021
June All Month Virtual Fishing Competition
Location: Bear Creek Lake only
From June 1 to 30, 2021, join in the park's virtual Fish 'n Photos contest. Every participant that submits a valid photo or video using the details and rules will be entered for a chance to win in the follow categories:
The Trifecta: Send a picture of 3 different fish species you caught during the month.
The Longest: Snap a picture of your catch next to a measuring tape from nose to tail.
The Shortest: Snap a picture of your catch next to a measure tape from nose to tail for a chance to win the honor of the shortest catch.
Best Fish Face: Submit a selfie of you and your catch with the best face.
The Reel Deal: Enter a video under 1 minute of your catch, your best cast, lake scenery or a fish eye view. The winner will be selected from the most creative.
Open to all ages. The winner in each category will receive a $50 Virginia State Parks gift certificate. The runner up in each category will receive a Bear Creek Lake State Park tee shirt. Individuals may win in only one category.
For contest rules, and to submit a photo, contact bcguide@dcr.virginia.gov
07/01/2021
     To       
07/29/2021
11:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. Craft Time - Birdhouse Gourds
Location: Acorn Loop Shelter
Thursdays during the month of July, Bear Creek Lake State Park will host a craft themed on plants grown to support wildlife. Join a ranger for a talk about growing more nesting birds with birdhouse gourds while exploring the fascinating world of gourds and their history. After the talk, participants will clean and paint their very own gourd to take home to hang for a bird in their neighborhood. Supplies are limited and advance registration at the office is required either in person or by emailing bcguide@dcr.virginia.gov. If supplies of gourds are no longer available, the program craft will shift to seed starting by making a seed pot out of newspaper. Participants will take home a seed to grow their own birdhouse gourds at home.
07/03/202110:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m. Basic Archery
Location: Archery Range
This basic archery session provides instruction to those new to archery, and suggestions and shooting time to those already familiar with recurve and compound bows. Sessions are offered every Saturday morning beginning March 27 through September 4, 2021. All equipment is provided although our equipment is not suitable for youth under ten years of age. Advance registration is required. To meet health safety guidelines, registration is by target and only three people of the same family or group per target. For example, a group of four will need to reserve two targets. Three targets are available. The fee is by individual, $5/person.
Restrooms and water are not available at the range. Larger groups may request a session by emailing bcguide@dcr.virginia.gov
07/03/20211:00 p.m. - 2:00 p.m. Look and Learn Table
Location: Beach area
Each Saturday in July, visit our table to see items that represent the natural history of Bear Creek Lake State Park while conversing with a park ranger. The items will vary from week to week.
07/03/20213:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m. Bear Aware
Location: Legacy Wayside
A ranger show and tell about being in black bear country and how we can coexist with this amazing animal. Come and learn about keeping your picnic basket safe and being more bear aware. What can you do if you cross paths with a bear while hiking? Will burning trash while you are out camping attract bears? What if a bear wanders into your backyard?
Activities will adhere to the current Virginia COVID-19 guidelines as seen at:
http://www.virginia.gov/coronavirus.
07/03/20217:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m. Nocturnal Life
Location: Archery Range
Ever wonder what goes bump in the night? While we, the day shift, are going to bed, the night shift is just getting started. Meet a ranger at the Archery Range with a show and tell table about the nighttime wanderers of Bear Creek Lake State Park. Bring a flashlight and your camp chair to hear about their story.
07/04/202110:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m. Water World
Location: Meet at the Boathouse
Did you ever wonder what critters might call the lakeshore "home"? At this ranger-led activity, participants will use dip nets to collect the critters they find and place them in tubs of water where the ranger will help you to identify them. After learning of the important role of these critters, and how they can help determine the quality of the lake's water, we'll return them to their water world.
07/04/202110:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m. Basic Archery
Location: Archery Range
This basic archery session provides instruction to those new to archery, and suggestions and shooting time to those already familiar with recurve and compound bows. Sessions are offered every Saturday morning beginning March 27 through September 4, 2021. All equipment is provided although our equipment is not suitable for youth under ten years of age. Advance registration is required. To meet health safety guidelines, registration is by target and only three people of the same family or group per target. For example, a group of four will need to reserve two targets. Three targets are available. The fee is by individual, $5/person.
Restrooms and water are not available at the range. Larger groups may request a session by emailing bcguide@dcr.virginia.gov
07/06/202110:00 a.m. - 11:15 a.m. For Adults: Arrow Flight
Location: Archery Range
Tuesdays in July, try out recurve, compound and crossbow archery bows and techniques using games and challenges. The fee is $5 per person.
Adults only, minimum age 16 years old. The number of participants is limited to allow for Virginia covid 19 health safety guidelines. Registration is by target. Each target is limited to three persons of the same group or household. Three targets are available. Advance registration is required through the park office.
05/01/2021
     To       
09/30/2021
Girl Scout Opportunity/ OUTDOOR ADVENTURE
Location: Meet at the Lakeside Diner
Take some steps on a trail. After a talk about being prepared and trail etiquette, we'll follow our route with map and compass to explore, enjoy a game on the way, and come back safely leaving no trace. The walk will be about a mile and a half over moderate ground with some inclines. Participants will need to bring their own water and snack, and a journal or note pad and writing or drawing tool to record what we see or what inspired them. Compasses will be provided to use during the program if you don't have one of your own.
The activity will cover components of badge requirements for Brownie Outdoor Adventurer or Brownie Eco Friend. This activity will last about three hours.
The activity will adhere to all current Virginia Covid -19 guidelines. Please contact thomas.kneipp@dcr.virginia.gov to arrange your preferred time slot.
05/01/2021
     To       
10/30/2021
Field and STREAM Trips
Location: Various locations in the park
Students perform better with tactile reinforcement of lessons learned online or in classroom education. Our in-park sessions can give them an edge in comprehending environmental and STREAM concepts in their curriculum. Participants receive grade level activities supporting VA Standards of Learning. These activities are available by advance reservation of your family unit or group of less than 10 people. The presentations will adhere to all current Covid 19 guidelines, and all park equipment used is sanitized prior to the session. Sessions will be held outdoors. In the event of precipitation a session will be rescheduled or cancelled. Sessions can be modified to allow participation by students with mobility impairments. Students with special needs are welcome if they are accompanied by a qualified caregiver.
Please contact Thomas.kneipp@dcr.virginia.gov or leave a phone message at 804-492-5919 with your contact information and the grade level(s) of the student(s) and we will send you our menu of activities. An email contact is preferred.
05/01/2021
     To       
11/15/2021
Girl Scout Opportunity/ TREE TIME
Location: Meet at the Lakeside Diner
Bear Creek Lake became a Virginia State Park in 1963. In that year, Girl Scouts had an activity to earn their Trailblazer patch by learning the history of a place. On this walk we'll discover the past by talking to the trees. We'll learn something about them, and maybe something from them. Bring your own pencil and paper to make a rubbing, or to record your thoughts. The walk will be about a mile over moderate ground.
This 90 minute activity will cover some components of badge requirements for Brownie, Junior and Cadette scouts.
All activities will adhere to current Virginia COVID-19 guidelines.
Please contact Thomas.kneipp@dcr.virginia.gov to schedule a preferred time slot.
03/01/2021
     To       
12/05/2021
8:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m. Self-Guided Archery
Location: Archery Range
The park offers an archery range for use by visitors with their own archery equipment. The range design and layout is representative of ranges developed by the NFTA and the IBO.
Each of the ten lanes is in a wooded area and features a paper or 3D target. The lanes are connected by a mown grass pathway. The range fee for adults is $5 and $3 for youth aged 3 to 12, per person. The daily park-wide parking fee is required. Overnight guests do not pay an additional parking fee. Please follow the posted range safety rules. Archery equipment is not available for rent at the park.
The range is managed in cooperation with and sponsored by the Friends of Bear Creek Lake State Park.
Basic Archery instructional sessions are offered May through September. Please look for those events on our events page. For further information, contact the park office.
12/12/2020
     To       
12/12/2021
Lost Barr Trail
Location: West side of the park
Lost Barr Trail is a 1.75 mile loop trail of moderate difficulty which takes walkers around the cabin area of the park in upland forest and along the lakeshore. The trail path is fairly smooth with occasional roots. A half-mile section of the trail from Blue Heron Drive to Coyote Trail has six wayside signs that interpret the environmental history of the park as well as human connection with the land.
There is a small parking area and trailhead kiosk on Bear Creek Forest Road. Additional parking is available at the housekeeping facility located on Blue Heron Drive. A park-wide daily parking pass is required and available at the park office or campground honor safe.
Lakeside Trail, which leads around the lake headwaters and onto the beach area, is accessible from Lost Barr Trail.
01/01/2021
     To       
01/03/2022
8:00 a.m. - 8:00 p.m. Interpreted Trails
Location: Channel Cat Trail and Lost Barr Trail
Bear Creek Lake State Park has a great trail network. Two trails in particular that introduce you to the park are the Channel Cat Trail and Lost Barr Trail. On these loop trails, we have placed a series of signs to acquaint you with the park's unique piedmont environment.
The Channel Cat Trail is accessible from many points on the campground side of the Park, such as the beach area parking, the Cumberland Multi-use parking and the Acorn Loop Campground. The trail can be walked in either direction, one part at a time, or as a loop to bring you full circle. The entire loop is just under two miles long and the trail is of a moderate difficulty rating. There is one shallow creek crossing and unlevel terrain, but no long steep inclines.
The Lost Barr Trail is on the cabin side of the park The entire trail loop is of a moderate rating and is just under two miles in length. The half-mile interpreted section is only on the eastern half of the trail between Blue Heron Drive and Otter Trail.
Trail guides for all the trails in the park are available at the office.
01/01/2021
     To       
01/03/2022
8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. GPS Activities
Location: Throughout the park
Try Geocaching, a world-wide craze that uses hand-held Global Positioning Units along with satellite technology, to find objects hidden in the woods. Informational brochures about Geocaching, and some of our GPS activities, are located in an outdoor rack at the park office. Try our special park caches. You can also go to http://www.geocaching.com to get coordinates of the many caches hidden near the park in the Cumberland State Forest. If you don't have a GPS app on your phone, or your own GPS device, we have units available for rent by the day for $10.00 or half-day for $6.00. Simply stop in at the park office during scheduled open hours and we'll get you started.
01/01/2021
     To       
01/03/2022
8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Bear Creek Lake State Park a Gateway to Nearby Parks
Location: Bear Creek Lake, Sailor's Creek State Park, High Bridge Trail State Park
Bear Creek Lake is an ideal basecamp for exploring other parks in the central piedmont of Virginia. Four other Virginia State Parks are less than an hour's drive from Bear Creek Lake.
If you are interested in history, Sailor's Creek Battlefield Historical State Park, the scene of horrific fighting during the final days of the Civil War, is just a 40 minute drive. Or if trails are more your thing, you can experience the majesty of High Bridge Trail State Park, a 31-mile long rail-to-trail from Burkeville to Pamplin featuring the 2,422 long High Bridge, which can be accessed from several different parking areas.
Neither of those parks have overnight accommodations, but fit perfectly in your Bear Creek Lake experience. Contact the individual parks directly for information on their activities and event fees. Your valid Bear Creek Lake parking pass will be honored when you visit any other Virginia State Park.
To make an overnight reservation for a Bear Creek Lake cabin or campsite, contact the Customer Service Center at 1-800-PARK (7275).
12/15/2020
     To       
01/15/2022
Channel Cat Interpreted Loop Trail
Location: several trailheads within the park
One feature of our trail network is the Channel Cat Trail. On this loop trail, accessible from many points on the campground side of the park, we have placed a series of signs to acquaint you with the park's unique piedmont environment.
The section of Channel Cat Trail along the lake provides information on fish species and fishing techniques, and the conservation practices employed to maintain our forty acre recreational resource.
The section from the CMT parking lot southward to the Beach parking lot interprets how a forest grows in Virginia's piedmont, so that you can "see the forest for the trees"
A third section from the CMT parking northwestward back to the Lake's spillway is for your own reflections on the wonders of nature. The park's role in the Chesapeake Bay watershed is also noted.
These sections can be walked in either direction, one part at a time, or as a loop to bring you full circle.
The entire loop is just under two miles long and the trail is of a moderate difficulty rating. There is one shallow creek crossing and unlevel terrain, but no steep inclines.
Trail guides for all the trails in the park are available at the office.
12/15/2020
     To       
01/15/2022
Interpreted Trails
Location: Various trailheads within the park
Bear Creek Lake State Park has a great trail network. Two trails in particular that introduce you to the park are the Channel Cat Trail and Lost Barr Trail. On these loop trails, we have placed a series of signs to acquaint you with the park's piedmont environment.
The Channel Cat Trail is accessible from parking areas near the beach area, the Cumberland Multi-use Trailhead and the Acorn Loop Campground. The trail can be walked in either direction, one part at a time, or as a loop to bring you full circle. The entire loop is just under two miles long of a moderate difficulty rating. There is one shallow creek crossing and unlevel terrain, but no long steep inclines.
The Lost Barr Trail is on the cabin side of the park The entire trail loop is of a moderate rating and is just under two miles in length. The half-mile interpreted section is only on the southern half of the trail between Blue Heron Drive and Otter Trail. This section focusses on the human relationship with the land and the park's unique geology. Access is from parking areas on Bear Creek Forest Rd., and the maintenance facility in the cabin area.
Trail guides for all the trails in the park are available at the office and trailhead kiosks.
01/01/2021
     To       
01/15/2022
8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Junior Ranger booklet
Location: Park Office
Our Junior Ranger brochures allow kids the option of achieving a badge on their own through supervised self-guided activities, or by attending a few park activities, such as nature programs, when scheduled. The brochures are available at the park office during office hours. See the brochure for details.
01/01/2021
     To       
01/15/2022
8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Channel Cat Interpreted Trail
Location: Several locations in the park
One feature of the our trail network is the Channel Cat Trail. On this loop trail, accessible from many points on the campground side of the park, we have placed a series of signs to acquaint you with the park's unique piedmont environment.
The section of Channel Cat Trail along the lake provides information on fish species and fishing techniques, and the conservation practices employed to maintain our forty acre recreational resource.
The section from the CMT parking lot southward to the Beach parking lot interprets how a forest grows in Virginia's piedmont, so that you can "see the forest for the trees"
A third section from the CMT parking northwestward back to the Lake's spillway is for your own reflections on the wonders of nature. The park's role in the Chesapeake Bay watershed is also noted.
These sections can be walked in either direction, one part at a time, or as a loop to bring you full circle.
The entire loop is just under two miles long and the trail is of a moderate difficulty rating. There is one shallow creek crossing and unlevel terrain, but no steep inclines.
Trail guides for all the trails in the park are available at the office.

Belle Isle State Park
1632 Belle Isle Rd., Lancaster, VA 22503
Phone: 804-462-5030   Email Address: BelleIsle@dcr.virginia.gov
Web Site: www.dcr.virginia.gov/state-parks/belle-isle
DateEvent
06/27/202111:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. Tending the Garden: Oysters
Location: Motor Boat Launch
Many people plant gardens to provide fresh veggies and fruits. Our garden is a bit different; we've "planted" oysters. Join a ranger to see what critters live amongst the oysters, weed out any bad seeds, and clean up the garden.
Oysters filter water, create habitat, and provide food for both humans and animals. Come learn all about these important bi-valves, and get an up close and personal look at what makes them so unique.
06/27/20211:00 p.m. - 2:00 p.m. Critter Creations
Location: Picnic Area
You never know what critters you will see around Belle Isle, there's dozens to pick from. Keep your ears and eyes open for the flash of a bushy tail, or the slap on the water as animals take shelter.
Join a ranger and learn about the critters we see and don't see; explore their habitat; and make a craft to take home and share with friends and family.
07/02/20215:00 p.m. - 6:00 p.m. Ask a Ranger
Location: Lawn Next to Campground Bathhouse
Let us keep the kids entertained while the adults set up, or take a break from setting up and stop by for a quick craft; a quick discussion of Belle Isle's history; or a quick lesson on critters. It's ranger's choice, so every week is different.
Registration is not required, but Ranger's will limit the number of guests as needed to maintain social distance requirements. Masks are required.
Meet the ranger near the bathhouse in the Campground.
07/02/20217:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m. Classic Campfire
Location: Amphitheater
Friends, family, and fun can be found at our weekly ranger-led campfire. Meet your neighbors and enjoy a sweet treat. This is a great place to find out more about what is going on at the park during your stay. You can also test your marshmallow roasting skills. We will have all the fixin's for s'mores.
07/03/20219:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m. Pick Your Paddle
Location: Camp Store
Explore the waters surrounding Belle Isle as a Ranger guides you through the marsh. You never know who, or what you'll run into on the water, but our Rangers will be glad to discuss. All paddlers welcome from beginner to expert. We'll provide the the gear, and help you find the right fit for an enjoyable morning paddle.
Space is limited, and registration is recommended. Call the Camp Store, or stop by the Park Office to sign up. Children must be at least 8 years old. Please dress appropriately for the weather, and wear closed-toe shoes. $11 per person.
07/03/20211:00 p.m. - 2:00 p.m. Survival Bracelets 101
Location: Visitor Center
The survival bracelet is the superhero utility belt of the outdoors. With endless uses, designs, and accessories, it is a must have on any adventure. Learn the basics and make one of your own. $5 per bracelet.
Registration is recommended; please stop by the Camp Store or call the Park Office to sign up.
07/03/20213:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m. Seine n' Splash
Location: Picnic Area
We are on an expedition to have some fun, make a splash, and discover some of the tiny creatures that inhabit the shoreline of the Rappahannock River. Join a ranger at the beach near the picnic area and use a seining net to round up some interesting specimens. You never know what we will find.
07/04/20219:00 a.m. - 10:00 a.m. Colonial Classic Games
Location: Picnic Area
Past and present, friends and families have enjoyed getting together for some friendly competition. Virginians of the past often used their imagination and some everyday objects to play games very similar to many traditions that continue today. Try your hand at the classic colonial games.
07/04/202111:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. When Oysters Strike!
Location: Motor Boat Launch
Help us tend a whole new type of garden - an oyster garden. Discover this easy (and delicious) past time, and learn how this humble bivalve nourishes our bodies and our tidal waters. This is your chance to get a hands-on, up-close look at oysters and all of the interesting critters that call an oyster garden home.
03/27/2021
     To       
12/31/2021
8:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. Jr Rangers
Location: Camp Store
Belle Isle State Park is looking for the next generation of ranger, are you ready to give it a try? Stop by the Camp Store during operational hours, or visit the Park Office, to pick up your own Jr Rangers Activity Book.
Choose one of three levels to complete, or complete them all, and earn a Jr Rangers certificate. Each activity can be done on your own, or with a friend or family member. You can even do them at home in your own backyard.
Each activity book is free of charge for participants. For more information please stop by the Camp Store, or call the Park Office.
01/29/2021
     To       
01/29/2022
8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Explore Belle Isle
Location: Information at Camp Store
Belle Isle State Park has some great activities that you can do on your own schedule. Stop by the camp store for more information about any of the following.
-Borrow one of our park packs. Each one includes field guides and equipment to help you explore. Choose from Wetlands Exploration, Insects, and Nighttime.
-Complete a scavenger hunt and earn a prize.
-Bring your fishing pole and try your luck on our fishing pier. Bait and fishing licenses are available for purchase.
-Bring a picnic lunch and enjoy cool river breezes at the picnic area while the kids play on the playground.
-Pick up a list of Geocaches at the Camp Store and bring your own GPS unit or rent one from the park. The park's units have the geocache coordinates pre-programmed to make your search easier. GPS rental is $6 for half day or $10 for a full day rental.
-Explore the park by bicycle. $3 per hour.
-Boat Rentals: Canoes, kayaks, and paddleboards are available during seasonable weather. Please call the park for more information about rental fees, reservations, and requirements.

Caledon State Park
11617 Caledon Rd., King George, VA 22485
Phone: 540-663-3861   Email Address: Caledon@dcr.virginia.gov
Web Site: www.dcr.virginia.gov/state-parks/caledon
DateEvent
07/02/202110:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. Eagle Tour
Location: Visitor Center
One of America's greatest comeback stories, the bald eagle, soars free over the Potomac. The tour begins with a brief talk on the biology and history of the eagle and why so many can be found at Caledon. At the river, we aim to watch eagles as they soar and perch over the shoreline.
$3/person or $8/family. Masks are required for the wagon ride. Paid reservations are required as space is limited. Please call 540-663-3861 to reserve your spot. Parking Fee is $5.
07/03/202110:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. Ecosystem Explorers - Marsh Session
Location: Visitor Center
Discover how different organisms and environments create the various ecosystems found at Caledon State Park. Each session will explore a different ecosystem and the life within it. This session specifically investigates a marsh ecosystem.
$3 per person and $8 per family. Masks are required for the wagon ride. To register call 540-663-3861. Paid reservations are required as space is limited. Parking Fee is $5.
Difficulty: easy. Standing in sun, walking, climbing in and out of wagon. Terrain includes grass and gravel path.
07/03/20212:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m. Fossil Find
Location: Visitor Center
Did you know Caledon was once on the ocean floor? Find out how fossils are formed and what types can be found here before we ride down to scour the Potomac shoreline for these clues to the past.
$3 per person and $8 per family. Masks are required for the wagon ride as distancing is not possible. Please dress appropriately for the weather and wear shoes that can get wet. To register call 540-663-3861. Paid reservations are required as space is limited. Parking Fee is $5.
Difficulty: easy. Bending, standing in the sun, walking, climbing in and out of the wagon. Terrain includes sand, grass, and gravel path. Benches available.
07/04/202110:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. Eagle Tour
Location: Visitor Center
One of America's greatest comeback stories, the bald eagle, soars free over the Potomac. The tour begins with a brief talk on the biology and history of the eagle and why so many can be found at Caledon. At the river, we aim to watch eagles as they soar and perch over the shoreline.
$3/person or $8/family. Masks are required for the wagon ride. Paid reservations are required as space is limited. Please call 540-663-3861 to reserve your spot. Parking Fee is $5.
07/04/20212:00 p.m. - 4:30 p.m. Eagle Kayak Tour
Location: Visitor Center
One of America's greatest comeback stories, the bald eagle, soars free over the Potomac. The tour begins with a brief talk on the biology and history of the eagle and why so many can be found at Caledon. At the river, we aim to watch eagles as they soar and perch over the shoreline.
$19 for a solo kayak, $25 for a tandem kayak. Masks are required for the van ride. Be sure to wear clothes that can get wet and close-toed shoes. Must be at least 16 years or older for a solo kayak and 8 years or older (accompanied by an adult) for tandem kayak. Call for reservations at 540-663-3861.

Chippokes Plantation State Park
695 Chippokes Park Rd., Surry, VA 23883
Phone: 757-294-3728   Email Address: Chippokes@dcr.virginia.gov
Web Site: www.dcr.virginia.gov/state-parks/chippokes-plantation
DateEvent
06/27/202110:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m. Pasture Pals
Location: Farm and Forestry Museum Parking Lot
Meet our furry, and feathered, pasture friends as we discover how animals have been used on the farm. You will get a chance to come up and close to some of our animals and even hand feed the goats. We'll also find out why some of our animals act and look the way they do. Do you know why a donkey's ears are so big? Are rabbits rodents? Join us to find out.
06/27/20211:00 p.m. - 2:00 p.m. River House Tour
Location: Meet in the parking lot of the Farm and Forestry Museum
Take a peek inside this mesmerizing structure. The program will guide visitors through the rooms inside the River House, and will focus on how the dwelling fit into the property's history. Participants will discover how the things left behind in the River House reveal details about the people who inhabited it. Meet at the Farm and Forestry Museum Parking Lot.
06/27/20211:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m. Jones-Stewart Mansion Tours
Location: Back porch of the Jones-Stewart Mansion
The Jones-Stewart Mansion is a stunning example of an antebellum plantation house, built in 1854. The home offers a fascinating glimpse into the lives of the Jones and Stewart families. Enjoy the antique furniture, books, light fixtures, and domestic wares that are on display. Upstairs closed for renovations. Tours take 30-45 minutes. If tour is ongoing, wait on the back porch for the next one.
06/28/20211:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m. Jones-Stewart Mansion Tours
Location: Jones-Stewart Mansion Back Porch
The Jones-Stewart Mansion is a stunning example of an antebellum plantation house, built in 1854. The home offers a fascinating glimpse into the lives of the Jones and Stewart families. Enjoy the antique furniture, books, light fixtures, and domestic wares that are on display. Upstairs closed for renovations. Tours take 30-45 minutes. If tour is ongoing, please wait on the back porch for the next one.
07/02/20211:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m. Jones-Stewart Mansion Tour
Location: Back Porch of the Jones-Stewart Mansion
The Jones-Stewart Mansion is a stunning example of an antebellum plantation house, built in 1854. The home offers a fascinating glimpse into the lives of the Jones and Stewart families. Enjoy the antique furniture, books, light fixtures, and domestic wares that are on display. Upstairs closed for renovations.
07/02/20215:00 p.m. - 6:00 p.m. History of Chippokes Tram Tour
Location: Meet in front of Bath House A in the Campground
Enjoy a relaxing tram ride as we explore the history of Chippokes. The tram ride will focus on the park's historic buildings along Quarter Lane. Space very limited, reservations required. Meet in front of Bath House A in campground. Call the Visitor Center at 757-294-3625 to reserve a space.
07/03/202110:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m. Piggin Out
Location: Quayle Classroom at the Farm and Forestry Museum
Meet our ambassador animal Tazewell and make a craft to take home. Meet at the Farm and Forestry Museum.
07/03/202112:00 p.m. - 1:00 p.m. Insane for Seining
Location: Meet at the College Run Trail on the Farm and Forestry Museum Side
Take a closer look at what swims in the James River.
Meet on the Farm and Forestry Museum side of College Run Trail.
07/03/20211:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m. Jones-Stewart Mansion Tour
Location: Back Porch of Jones-Stewart Mansion
The Jones-Stewart Mansion is a stunning example of an antebellum plantation house, built in 1854. The home offers a fascinating glimpse into the lives of the Jones and Stewart families. Enjoy the antique furniture, books, light fixtures, and domestic wares that are on display. Upstairs closed for renovations.
07/03/20212:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m. Fossil Walk
Location: Meet in the parking lot of the Farm and Forestry Museum
Calling all fossil seekers. Join an interpreter for an adventure through the abundant fossil beds at Chippokes. Discover the creatures that lived here long ago and how the habitats at Chippokes have gone through drastic changes. Please dress appropriately for the weather. Plan on a one mile walk with some steep grades on pavement and flat sandy surfaces along the James River shoreline. Meet in the Farm and Forestry Museum parking lot.
07/04/202110:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m. Pasture Pals
Location: Farm and Forestry Museum Parking Lot
Meet our furry, and feathered, pasture friends as we discover how animals have been used on the farm. You will get a chance to come up and close to some of our animals and even hand feed the goats. We'll also find out why some of our animals act and look the way they do. Do you know why a donkey's ears are so big? Are rabbits rodents? Join us to find out.
07/04/20211:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m. Jones-Stewart Mansion Tour
Location: Back Porch of Jones-Stewart Mansion
The Jones-Stewart Mansion is a stunning example of an antebellum plantation house, built in 1854. The home offers a fascinating glimpse into the lives of the Jones and Stewart families. Enjoy the antique furniture, books, light fixtures, and domestic wares that are on display. Upstairs closed for renovations.
07/04/20211:00 p.m. - 2:00 p.m. River House Tour
Location: Meet in the Farm and Forestry Museum Parking Lot
Take a peek inside this mesmerizing structure. The program will guide visitors through the rooms inside the River House, and will focus on how the dwelling fit into the property's history. Participants will discover how the things left behind in the River House reveal details about the people who inhabited it.
07/05/20211:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m. Jones-Stewart Mansion Tour
Location: Back Porch of Jones-Stewart Mansion
The Jones-Stewart Mansion is a stunning example of an antebellum plantation house, built in 1854. The home offers a fascinating glimpse into the lives of the Jones and Stewart families. Enjoy the antique furniture, books, light fixtures, and domestic wares that are on display. Upstairs closed for renovations.
01/08/2021
     To       
12/31/2021
9:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m. Park Packs
Location: Visitor Center
Want a little more fun on your day trip or overnight stay at Chippokes? Then a Park Pack is what you need to help you explore the park on your own. Each pack contains binoculars, guide books, story books, birdsong players, and more. Park Packs come in a few different themes including Birding, History, Wetlands, and Wildlife. These fee-free packs can be checked out for up to three days.
02/05/2021
     To       
12/31/2021
9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Big Adventures with Little Luna: Pasture Pals
Location: Farm and Forestry Museum
Take a self-guided adventure with Luna, Chippokes Plantation's cat with Big Adventures with Little Luna. Luna will help you explore and learn about the Farm and Forestry Museum's ambassador animals.
Download a copy here https://www.dcr.virginia.gov/state-parks/document/CP-Big-Adventures-Pasture-Pals.pdf

Claytor Lake State Park
6620 Ben H. Bolen Dr., Dublin, VA 24084
Phone: 540-643-2500   Email Address: ClaytorLake@dcr.virginia.gov
Web Site: www.dcr.virginia.gov/state-parks/claytor-lake
DateEvent
06/27/202111:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. Outdoor History Tour
Location: Howe House front porch
Enjoy a morning stroll while learning the history of this land and its inhabitants. A wide variety of topics can be covered. Please join us and ask a lot of questions!
06/27/20212:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m. Roaming Ranger Mini-Program
Location: Throughout the Park
Watch for a roaming ranger with something interesting for show and tell. It could be Cherokee cultural artifacts, how to build a campfire, how to talk to owls, or a quick story about possums. You never know what the topic of the day will be and how much fun you'll have!
07/01/202112:00 p.m. - 1:00 p.m. Critter Question and Answer Time
Location: Beach Building
Meet with a ranger by the beach to learn about some of our local critters. What animal is considered an architect? Which bird flies the fastest? Who in the park eats skunks? What about possums? And much more. There will be a different topic each day!
07/01/20212:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m. Roaming Ranger
Location: throughout the park
Watch for a roaming ranger with something interesting for show and tell. It could be Cherokee cultural artifacts, how to build a campfire, how to talk to owls, or a quick story about possums. You never know what the topic of the day will be and how much fun you'll have!
07/02/202111:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. What's your Wingspan?
Location: Beach Building
Join the ranger for a talk about hawks, eagles, and other birds of prey that live around our lake. Then you can compare yourself to our large feathered friends. Are you a red-tailed hawk, an osprey, a falcon, or maybe even an eagle? Join us to find out!
07/02/20213:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m. Roaming Ranger
Location: throughout the park
Watch for a roaming ranger with something interesting for show and tell. It could be Cherokee cultural artifacts, how to build a campfire, how to talk to owls, or a quick story about possums. You never know what the topic of the day will be and how much fun you'll have!
07/02/20217:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m. Welcome Campfire with Live Reptiles
Location: Interpretive Campfire Circle in Campground D
Join us at our weekly Welcome Campfire to meet your camping neighbors as you relax by the fire. You will also get to meet two of our reptilian park volunteers, Henry and Firefly. They are both family-friendly reptiles who are looking forward to meeting you as well!
07/03/202111:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. Independence Day Weekend Fun
Location: Beach Building
Rangers will be on hand with a variety of games, educational activities, a wildlife display, and more as we celebrate Independence Day weekend. Each day will feature different activities.
07/03/20213:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m. Roaming Ranger
Location: throughout the park
Watch for a roaming ranger with something interesting for show and tell. It could be Cherokee cultural artifacts, how to build a campfire, how to talk to owls, or a quick story about possums. You never know what the topic of the day will be and how much fun you'll have!
07/03/20217:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m. Live Music Campfire
Location: Interpretive Campfire Circle in Campground D
Join the rangers as we welcome you to the park for a relaxing evening of live music featuring the Groove Houndz. Bench seating is available, but limited. Please feel free to bring blankets and chairs. Donations are accepted for our performers.
07/04/202111:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. Outdoor History Tour
Location: Howe House front porch
Enjoy a morning stroll around the Howe House grounds while learning the history of this land and its inhabitants. A wide variety of topics can be covered. Please join us and ask a lot of questions!
07/04/202112:00 p.m. - 2:00 p.m. Independenece Day Fun
Location: Beach Building
Rangers will be on hand with a variety of games, educational activities, a wildlife display, and more as we celebrate Independence Day weekend. Each day will feature different activities.
07/04/20213:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m. Roaming Ranger
Location: throughout the park
Watch for a roaming ranger with something interesting for show and tell. It could be Cherokee cultural artifacts, how to build a campfire, how to talk to owls, or a quick story about possums. You never know what the topic of the day will be and how much fun you'll have!
11/05/2020
     To       
12/01/2021
6:00 a.m. - 10:00 p.m. Wild About Water Geocache
Location: Park at Campground B/C Overflow Lot
For this Geocaching Adventure you'll find a collectable card that will highlight a water feature in the park you may not know much about.
For GPS coordinates and to log your find visit: tinyurl.com/y5y4qo6m
07/28/2020
     To       
12/31/2021
Little Free Library
Location: Campground D Bathhouse
Take a walk with words, recreate your mind, and enjoy a divergent adventure in the park. Feel free to grab a book or leave one behind for someone else.
Our Little Free Library is easily accessible March-November. December-February the campground is closed so access is limited to hike-in use. Find our park's library online or a library near you at https://littlefreelibrary.org
02/25/2021
     To       
12/31/2021
Claytor Lake State Park Virtual History Tour
Location: Various.
Take a hike back in time by visiting our tour points located at the same location as our collection of photos and videos from past years at Claytor Lake State Park and Claytor Lake. Enjoy our tour in person or from the comfort of your campsite, cabin, or yurt by visiting https://tinyurl.com/yxffovme on your smartphone, tablet, or computer.
01/01/2021
     To       
12/31/2021
6:00 a.m. - 10:00 p.m. TRACK Trail Adventures
Location: Shady Ridge Trail from Picnic Area
TRACK Trail Adventures are designed to help kids explore nature through the use of self-guided brochures. Within the pages of each brochure a different story unfolds. Claytor Lake State Park's adventure brochures include: Animal Athletes, Bug Out, Flower Power, and Fun with Fungi. Remember to log your visit to get free prizes online at http://www.kidsinparks.com
01/01/2021
     To       
12/31/2021
6:00 a.m. - 10:00 p.m. 5K Cross Country Trail
Location: Trail starts in front of the Meeting Facility.
Within the trail system lies the Troop 244 5K Cross Country Trail. This designated 5K Trail is the perfect resource for both new and seasoned runners to enjoy. The 5K Trail starts on the Lakeview Trail in front of the Water's Edge Meeting Facility and finishes on Lakeview in front of the lodges. 5K trail maps are available at the start of the trail.
Interested in hosting a 5K or a race here at the park? Contact the park office for additional information.
01/01/2021
     To       
12/31/2021
6:00 a.m. - 10:00 p.m. Claytor Lake State Park Virtual Tree/Plant Tour
Location: Tour begins at the Howe House.
Open your eyes to the diversity of plant life at Claytor Lake by joining us on this virtual plant tour. Open the link on your smartphone or tablet, and head over to the Howe House where the tour begins. Follow along for a 2 mile hike to get a closer look and learn some interesting things about some of the beautiful plants and trees in the park.
Here's the link to start the plant tour: https://tinyurl.com/yavr84ah
01/01/2021
     To       
12/31/2021
8:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. Historic Haven B. Howe House Audio Tour
Location: Haven B. Howe House.
Download the free UniGuide app and begin listening to the fascinating history of this land's past inhabitants. There are 8 listening stops around the house, please enjoy each one. You can download the Haven B. Howe House Audio Tour ahead of time if you would like.
To learn more about UniGuide and to download the app. visit http://uniguide.me. Once the app is downloaded, you can search "Howe" to find our audio tour. Afterwards, you can spot each audio tour stop location and begin to learn the history of the house and previous families.

Douthat State Park
14239 Douthat State Park Rd., Millboro, VA 24460
Phone: 540-862-8100   Email Address: Douthat@dcr.virginia.gov
Web Site: www.dcr.virginia.gov/state-parks/douthat
DateEvent
06/30/202111:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. Douthat Dwellers: Opossums
Location: Beach Amphitheater
A face only a mother could love? Truth be told, the opossum is about as harmless as they come. Let us teach you a little about this misunderstood, necessary marsupial. You'll also get to make an opossum craft to take home as a souvenir.
06/30/20211:00 p.m. - 2:00 p.m. What's My Wingspan?
Location: amphitheater at beach
In the bird world, wingspan means everything. It determines where you can live, how fast you can fly, and what you can hunt. What kind of bird does your wingspan compare to?
06/30/20213:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m. Who Made Those Tracks?
Location: Discovery Center
As animals explore their surroundings they leave us lots of clues. Think you can identify a coyote track from a domestic dog? Test your knowledge and make a plaster cast of a critter track to take home for only $3 per track.
06/30/20215:00 p.m. - 6:00 p.m. Roving Rangers
Location: various locations around Douthat State Park
Find the "roving rangers", as they travel campgrounds, to find out what cool things they brought with them. Don't be shy - feel free to ask the ranger about all the fun activities going on in the park or the wildlife you might see while you're here.
07/01/202111:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. Douthat Dwellers: Frogs
Location: amphitheater at the beach
What animal inspired a popular children's game? Hint: It can be green or brown, live in water or out, and its legs can be twice its body length. You guessed it, it's a frog. We have many native frogs and each have unique qualities that make it special. Meet a park ranger and dive into the world of frogs.
07/01/20213:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m. Scales and Tales
Location: amphitheater at the beach
Like them or loathe them, snakes are important to our ecosystems. Learn about the kinds of snakes that call Douthat home. Can we turn fright into fearlessness with a little bit of knowledge about snakes? Let us try.
07/01/20216:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m. Frog Slog
Location: Park Office
Venture over to the park office to learn the calls and search for some of Virginia's native frog species. You'll want to wear closed-toed shoes.
07/02/2021Critter Crawl
Location: Discovery Center
What's under that rock? We'll search the creek for underwater creatures and explain their roles in the environment. Meet us at the Discovery Center. Wear closed-toed shoes and expect to get wet.
07/02/202110:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m. Basic Tree ID Walk
Location: Meet at the Lakeview Camp Store parking area
Join Master Naturalist, Kim Manion for a short walk to learn the basics of tree identification. While everyone is welcome, older children and adults will particularly enjoy this program.
07/02/202111:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. Douthat Dwellers - Owls
Location: amphitheater at the beach
Have you ever heard an owl sing at night? Some call it spooky. Do you know what to listen for? If you're not sure, join us to see what kind of owls call Douthat home as we listen to their distinct calls. You can also make your own owl craft to take home.
07/02/20211:00 p.m. - 2:00 p.m. Archaeologist Adventure
Location: Discovery Center
Did you know owls don't chew their own food? Learn about how owls eat and what happens to it next. You'll get the chance to dig through your own owl pellet to see what was for dinner. $5 per owl pellet.
07/02/20213:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m. The Good Ole Games
Location: beach complex
Imagine not having a TV, an Xbox, or Play Station. What would you do for fun? Try playing some games that were played by early settlers.
07/02/20213:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m. Douthat Dwellers - Bears
Location: Discovery Center
Douthat is home to many mammals including black bears. Curious about these illusive creatures? Would you like to see a real bear pelt and skull? If so, then join us to learn about black bears and how you can safely enjoy the view from a distance, if you're lucky enough to spot one in nature.
07/03/202111:30 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. Planting for Pollinators
Location: amphitheater at beach
Dig in with Master Naturalist, Kim Manion to discuss how we can plant for pollinators around out own homes and the importance of butterflies. While everyone is welcome, older children and adults will find this program most enjoyable.
07/03/202111:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. Step Back in Time History Walk
Location: Camp Malone
How much Douthat History do you know? Do you know what year the park opened or how the picnic shelters got their names? Join us for a short walk by the lake to learn the history of Douthat and see some of the oldest park structures along the way.
07/03/20211:00 p.m. - 2:00 p.m. Ask a Ranger
Location: Beach
Stop by and see some cool critters, hold some interesting artifacts and have all of your nature and history questions about Douthat answered.
07/03/20215:00 p.m. - 6:00 p.m. Skulls and Skins
Location: Discovery Center
Ever wanted to see the fur of a skunk or an opossum? See these wild animals the safe way; with our large collection of animal pelts. Think you can identify them all?
06/11/2021
     To       
12/31/2021
8:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. Geocaching for Beginners
Location: Main Office
Geocaching is a popular outdoor treasure hunting activity that requires the use of a GPS device.
This geocaching trail is perfect for beginner geocachers and will help you get more familiar with the wonderful world of Geocaching.
Pick up a list of coordinates and directions at the main office.
GPS units are available for rent at the main office.

Fairy Stone State Park
967 Fairystone Lake Dr., Stuart, VA 24171
Phone: 276-930-2424   Email Address: FairyStone@dcr.virginia.gov
Web Site: www.dcr.virginia.gov/state-parks/fairy-stone
DateEvent
06/27/202112:00 p.m. - 1:00 p.m. Fairy Stone Hunt
Location: Visitor Center
Learn the legend behind the naturally occurring stone cross formations, and travel to the special location in the park to search for your own staurolite crystal or "Fairy Stone." The story surrounding these "tears of the fairies" will delight your imagination and motivate you as you go on this treasure hunt for the perfect keepsake. After a short presentation on what you will be looking for and the telling of the legend we will travel to the site. Guests will need to drive their own vehicles to the hunt site. The interpreters will lead the way and stay to help you on your quest.
06/27/20212:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m. Fairy Stone Workshop
Location: Shelter 3
Learn some of the trade secrets of what it takes to create the perfect "Fairy Stone" that everyone is looking for. Be the envy of all your friends when you show off what you have found, but don't tell that you learned the trick of the trade.
Know Before You Go: Before your visit, find the most up to date health and safety information at https://www.dcr.virginia.gov/state-parks/besafe
06/27/20214:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m. CSI:Creek Scene Investigation
Location: Shelter 3
Plop, plop, splash. Frogs, crawdads and children, oh my. In our CSI program the interpretive staff invite kids and adults to get in and get wet as they look for macro invertebrates and other stream critters. Please wear closed toed shoes and dress to get wet.
Know Before You Go: Before your visit, find the most up to date health and safety information at https://www.dcr.virginia.gov/state-parks/besafe
06/27/20215:00 p.m. - 6:00 p.m. Roving Ranger
Location: Throughout the Park
Find the "roving rangers" as they travel the park to find out what cool things they brought with them from our Visitor Center. Don't be shy - feel free to ask the ranger about all the fun activities going on in the park or the wildlife you might see while you're here.
06/28/2021Special Event  5:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m. Monday Market
Location: Shelters 3 and 4
Every Monday you can find local fresh produce, baked goods, eggs, honey, jams and jellies, bread, soap, and local artisan crafters, as well as food vendors, here at Fairy Stone State Park. Free parking for those visiting the market - ask for your free market pass. Most vendors do not accept credit cards or personal checks, so bring your shopping bag and plenty of cash.
For questions about the market or about becoming a vendor, please contact Bessie Weber at 276-930-2884 or bessweber@yahoo.com
06/29/202111:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. Fairy Stone Hunt
Location: Visitor Center
Learn the legend behind the naturally occurring stone cross formations, and travel to the special location in the park to search for your own staurolite crystal or "Fairy Stone." The story surrounding these "tears of the fairies" will delight your imagination and motivate you as you go on this treasure hunt for the perfect keepsake. After a short presentation on what you will be looking for and the telling of the legend we will travel to the site. Guests will need to drive their own vehicles to the hunt site. The interpreters will lead the way and stay to help you on your quest.
06/29/20211:00 p.m. - 2:00 p.m. Fairy Stone Workshop
Location: Shelter 3
Learn some of the trade secrets of what it takes to create the perfect "Fairy Stone" that everyone is looking for. Be the envy of all your friends when you show off what you have found, but don't tell that you learned the trick of the trade.
Know Before You Go: Before your visit, find the most up to date health and safety information at https://www.dcr.virginia.gov/state-parks/besafe
06/29/20213:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m. Fairy Houses and Gnome Homes
Location: Shelter 3
Join an interpreter to learn about the fairies that used to live at Fairy Stone State Park. Then, build a fairy house or gnome home from natural debris while learning the legend of the fairy stone.
Know Before You Go: Before your visit, find the most up to date health and safety information at https://www.dcr.virginia.gov/state-parks/besafe
06/30/202111:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. Fairy Stone Hunt
Location: Visitor Center
Learn the legend behind the naturally occurring stone cross formations, and travel to the special location in the park to search for your own staurolite crystal or "Fairy Stone." The story surrounding these "tears of the fairies" will delight your imagination and motivate you as you go on this treasure hunt for the perfect keepsake. After a short presentation on what you will be looking for and the telling of the legend we will travel to the site. Guests will need to drive their own vehicles to the hunt site. The interpreters will lead the way and stay to help you on your quest.
06/30/20211:00 p.m. - 2:00 p.m. Fairy Stone Workshop
Location: Shelter 3
Learn some of the trade secrets of what it takes to create the perfect "Fairy Stone" that everyone is looking for. Be the envy of all your friends when you show off what you have found, but don't tell that you learned the trick of the trade.
Know Before You Go: Before your visit, find the most up to date health and safety information at https://www.dcr.virginia.gov/state-parks/besafe
06/30/20213:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m. CSI:Creek Scene Investigation
Location: Shelter 3
Plop, plop, splash. Frogs, crawdads and children, oh my. In our CSI program the interpretive staff invite kids and adults to get in and get wet as they look for macro invertebrates and other stream critters. Please wear closed toed shoes and dress to get wet.
Know Before You Go: Before your visit, find the most up to date health and safety information at https://www.dcr.virginia.gov/state-parks/besafe
07/01/202110:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m. Fairy Stone Hunt
Location: Visitor Center
Learn the legend behind the naturally occurring stone cross formations, and travel to the special location in the park to search for your own staurolite crystal or "Fairy Stone." The story surrounding these "tears of the fairies" will delight your imagination and motivate you as you go on this treasure hunt for the perfect keepsake. After a short presentation on what you will be looking for and the telling of the legend we will travel to the site. Guests will need to drive their own vehicles to the hunt site. The interpreters will lead the way and stay to help you on your quest.
07/01/20212:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m. Our Life Giving Trees
Location: Shelter 3
Learn all about trees and what they do for us. See why we could not live if there were no trees. Did you know trees help prevent global warming? Come see how!!!
07/01/20214:00 p.m. - 6:00 p.m. Roving Ranger
Location: Throughout the Park
Find the "roving rangers" as they travel the park to find out what cool things they brought with them from our Visitor Center. Don't be shy - feel free to ask the ranger about all the fun activities going on in the park or the wildlife you might see while you're here.
07/02/202111:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. Fayerdale - The Missing Town
Location: Shelter 3
Did you know there was once a thriving "Boom" Town located where our lake is today? Our Ranger led program tells all about the "missing town" and its rowdy residents. Learn how moonshining put the boom in "boom town"!
07/02/20212:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m. Roving Ranger
Location: Throughout the Park
Find the "roving rangers" as they travel the park to find out what cool things they brought with them from our Visitor Center. Don't be shy - feel free to ask the ranger about all the fun activities going on in the park or the wildlife you might see while you're here.
07/02/20216:30 p.m. - 7:30 p.m. Iron Mine Hike
Location: Stuart's Knob Trailhead
Meet with a ranger to go on a hike and learn about the history of the old iron mining town of Fayerdale. You may even get the chance to see an old iron mine shaft. Be aware that this trail is difficult. Wear close-toed comfortable shoes, bring plenty of water & snacks, bug spray (your choice), and sunscreen. Know Before You Go: Before your visit, find the most up to date health and safety information at https://www.dcr.virginia.gov/state-parks/besafe
07/02/20218:30 p.m. - 9:30 p.m. Welcome Campfire
Location: Amphitheater Fire Ring
What says camping more than joining your fellow campers around a campfire? To help you get oriented to the park, join the interpretive staff for our Welcome Campfire. Feel free to bring a musical instrument and jam a little. Or, if you're a good story teller, please share with us. Know Before You Go: Before your visit, find the most up to date health and safety information at https://www.dcr.virginia.gov/state-parks/besafe
07/03/202112:00 p.m. - 1:00 p.m. Fairy Stone Hunt
Location: Visitor Center
Learn the legend behind the naturally occurring stone cross formations, and travel to the special location in the park to search for your own staurolite crystal or "Fairy Stone." The story surrounding these "tears of the fairies" will delight your imagination and motivate you as you go on this treasure hunt for the perfect keepsake. After a short presentation on what you will be looking for and the telling of the legend we will travel to the site. Guests will need to drive their own vehicles to the hunt site. The interpreters will lead the way and stay to help you on your quest.
07/03/20212:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m. Fairy Stone Workshop
Location: Shelter 3
Learn some of the trade secrets of what it takes to create the perfect "Fairy Stone" that everyone is looking for. Be the envy of all your friends when you show off what you have found, but don't tell that you learned the trick of the trade. Know Before You Go: Before your visit, find the most up to date health and safety information at https://www.dcr.virginia.gov/state-parks/besafe
07/03/20214:30 p.m. - 5:30 p.m. Whiskey Run Hike
Location: Stuart's Knob Trailhead
After the iron industry moved away from the area, residents of Fayerdale went from mining to 'shining. Join a ranger to learn about the history of moonshining, and how the residents of Fayerdale used Stuart's Knob to provide for their families.This trail does have some slippery slopes, so please wear proper footwear and wear clothing you don't mind getting dirty.
07/03/20217:30 p.m. - 8:30 p.m. Coyote: The Newcomer
Location: Shelter 3
Did you know that coyotes are not naturally native to Virginia? Enjoy a ranger led discussion and presentation about this efficient predator. Learn about their habits, their capabilities, and how they got here. Hint: It's not how you think!
07/03/20218:30 p.m. - 9:30 p.m. Welcome Campfire
Location: Amphitheater Fire Ring
What says camping more than joining your fellow campers around a campfire? To help you get oriented to the park, join the interpretive staff for our Welcome Campfire. Feel free to bring a musical instrument and jam a little. Or, if you're a good story teller, please share with us. Know Before You Go: Before your visit, find the most up to date health and safety information at https://www.dcr.virginia.gov/state-parks/besafe
07/04/202112:00 p.m. - 1:00 p.m. Fairy Stone Hunt
Location: Visitor Center
Learn the legend behind the naturally occurring stone cross formations, and travel to the special location in the park to search for your own staurolite crystal or "Fairy Stone." The story surrounding these "tears of the fairies" will delight your imagination and motivate you as you go on this treasure hunt for the perfect keepsake. After a short presentation on what you will be looking for and the telling of the legend we will travel to the site. Guests will need to drive their own vehicles to the hunt site. The interpreters will lead the way and stay to help you on your quest.
07/04/20212:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m. Fairy Stone Workshop
Location: Shelter 3
Learn some of the trade secrets of what it takes to create the perfect "Fairy Stone" that everyone is looking for. Be the envy of all your friends when you show off what you have found, but don't tell that you learned the trick of the trade. Know Before You Go: Before your visit, find the most up to date health and safety information at https://www.dcr.virginia.gov/state-parks/besafe
07/04/20213:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m. Fairy Houses and Gnome Homes
Location: Shelter 3
Join an interpreter to learn about the fairies that used to live at Fairy Stone State Park. Then, build a fairy house or gnome home from natural debris while learning the legend of the fairy stone.
07/04/20215:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m. Roving Ranger
Location: Throughout the Park
Find the "roving rangers" as they travel the park to find out what cool things they brought with them from our Visitor Center. Don't be shy - feel free to ask the ranger about all the fun activities going on in the park or the wildlife you might see while you're here.
07/05/2021Special Event  5:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m. Monday Market
Location: Shelters 3 and 4
Every Monday you can find local fresh produce, baked goods, eggs, honey, jams and jellies, bread, soap, and local artisan crafters, as well as food vendors, here at Fairy Stone State Park. Free parking for those visiting the market - ask for your free market pass. Most vendors do not accept credit cards or personal checks, so bring your shopping bag and plenty of cash.
For questions about the market or about becoming a vendor, please contact Bessie Weber at 276-930-2884 or bessweber@yahoo.com
07/06/202111:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. Fairy Stone Hunt
Location: Visitor Center
Learn the legend behind the naturally occurring stone cross formations, and travel to the special location in the park to search for your own staurolite crystal or "Fairy Stone." The story surrounding these "tears of the fairies" will delight your imagination and motivate you as you go on this treasure hunt for the perfect keepsake. After a short presentation on what you will be looking for and the telling of the legend we will travel to the site. Guests will need to drive their own vehicles to the hunt site. The interpreters will lead the way and stay to help you on your quest.
07/06/20212:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m. Fairy Stone Workshop
Location: Shelter 3
Learn some of the trade secrets of what it takes to create the perfect "Fairy Stone" that everyone is looking for. Be the envy of all your friends when you show off what you have found, but don't tell that you learned the trick of the trade. Know Before You Go: Before your visit, find the most up to date health and safety information at https://www.dcr.virginia.gov/state-parks/besafe
07/06/20213:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m. CSI:Creek Scene Investigation
Location: Shelter 3
Plop, plop, splash. Frogs, crawdads and children, oh my. In our CSI program the interpretive staff invite kids and adults to get in and get wet as they look for macro invertebrates and other stream critters. Please wear closed toed shoes and dress to get wet.Know Before You Go: Before your visit, find the most up to date health and safety information at https://www.dcr.virginia.gov/state-parks/besafe
07/07/202111:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. Fairy Stone Hunt
Location: Visitor Center
Learn the legend behind the naturally occurring stone cross formations, and travel to the special location in the park to search for your own staurolite crystal or "Fairy Stone." The story surrounding these "tears of the fairies" will delight your imagination and motivate you as you go on this treasure hunt for the perfect keepsake. After a short presentation on what you will be looking for and the telling of the legend we will travel to the site. Guests will need to drive their own vehicles to the hunt site. The interpreters will lead the way and stay to help you on your quest.
07/07/20212:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m. Fairy Stone Workshop
Location: Shelter 3
Learn some of the trade secrets of what it takes to create the perfect "Fairy Stone" that everyone is looking for. Be the envy of all your friends when you show off what you have found, but don't tell that you learned the trick of the trade. Know Before You Go: Before your visit, find the most up to date health and safety information at https://www.dcr.virginia.gov/state-parks/besafe
07/07/20213:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m. Lake Explorers
Location: Beach Breezeway
Cast a net and dip for critters to find out what is nibbling on your toes as you swim. Join an interpreter to figure out what creatures call Fairy Stone Lake their home, and find out why they choose to live here. Beach fees apply when the beach is open.
01/01/2021
     To       
12/31/2021
8:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. Photo Scavenger Hunt
Location: Visitor Center / Park Office
Explore the park through a different point of view. Bring along your camera or smart phone to photograph unique areas and items located throughout park. Hike along trails, walk along the beach, and discover species of trees and animals you may not realize are in the park. This activity serves as a perfect memento of your trip to Fairy Stone State Park. Stop by the Visitor Center or Park Office to collect your scavenger hunt list.
Return with the pictures collected during your stay to receive a free prize.

False Cape State Park
4001 Sandpiper Rd., Virginia Beach, VA 23456
Phone: 757-426-7128   Email Address: FalseCape@dcr.virginia.gov
Web Site: www.dcr.virginia.gov/state-parks/false-cape
DateEvent
06/27/20219:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. Summer Wildlife Tram Tour
Location: Meet at Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge for transport to False Cape
Take a 4 hour guided tour through Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge and False Cape State Park! Spot wildlife from the Blue Goose Tram and learn the history of this spectacular area. Participants can be dropped off at the visitor center at False Cape and picked up at the end of the tour, or they can continue with the tram to the Wash Woods church and cemetery site for a guided hike (1 mile round trip). Please note, the tram does not transport campers.
From Memorial Day-Labor Day, the tram tour runs on Monday evenings and Wednesday, Friday, and Sunday mornings. Cost: $8 per person, $5 entrance fee for Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge per car. Reservations are required. Make reservations by calling the park at (757) 426-7128.
To protect the safety of participants and staff: 1) Participant numbers may be limited based on current COVID guidelines. 2) Participants MUST wear a face covering on the tram. 3) Participants must pre-pay for the tour. 4) Participants cannot attend the tour if they have any of the following symptoms: cough, shortness of breath, fever, chills, muscle pain, sore throat, or new loss of taste or smell.
06/27/20219:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. Early Kayak Paddle
Location: Meet at Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge for transport into False Cape
Join us for a paddle on wildlife-filled Back Bay, a slow moving and scenic body of water that meanders along maritime-forests and wind-driven marshes. On this adventure, we will see plants and animals rarely seen in the city and learn about the amazing history of the area. During paddles, we regularly see bald eagles, great egrets, great blue herons, cormorants, and many types of songbirds. If we are lucky, we could also spot some playful river otters swimming nearby. Don't forget a water bottle, sunscreen, and bug spray.
All equipment is provided, no experience is necessary.
Cost: $25 per person and a Back Bay Refuge entrance fee is required from April to October: $5 per vehicle, $2 per bicycle or pedestrian. Reservations are required, and space is limited. To make a reservation please call the park at (757) 426-7128. All programs meet at the Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge visitor center.
06/28/20215:30 p.m. - 8:30 p.m. Sunset Wildlife Tram Tour
Location: Meet at Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge for transport to False Cape
Take a 3 hour scenic drive through Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge and False Cape State Park! Spot wildlife from the Blue Goose Tram and learn the history of this spectacular area. Watch the sun set over Back Bay, and take home memories that will last a lifetime. Please note, sunset tours do not include a guided hike, and the tram does not transport campers.
From Memorial Day-Labor Day, the tram tour runs on Monday evenings and Wednesday, Friday, and Sunday mornings. Cost: $8 per person. Reservations are required. Make reservations by calling the park at (757) 426-7128.
To protect the safety of participants and staff: 1) Participant numbers may be limited based on current COVID guidelines. 2) Participants MUST wear a face covering on the tram. 3) Participants must pre-pay for the tour. 4) Participants cannot attend the tour if they have any of the following symptoms: cough, shortness of breath, fever, chills, muscle pain, sore throat, or new loss of taste or smell.
06/30/20219:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. Summer Wildlife Tram Tour
Location: Meet at Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge for transport to False Cape
Take a 4 hour guided tour through Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge and False Cape State Park! Spot wildlife from the Blue Goose Tram and learn the history of this spectacular area. Participants can be dropped off at the visitor center at False Cape and picked up at the end of the tour, or they can continue with the tram to the Wash Woods church and cemetery site for a guided hike (1 mile round trip). Please note, the tram does not transport campers.
From Memorial Day-Labor Day, the tram tour runs on Monday evenings and Wednesday, Friday, and Sunday mornings. Cost: $8 per person, $5 entrance fee for Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge per car. Reservations are required. Make reservations by calling the park at (757) 426-7128.
To protect the safety of participants and staff: 1) Participant numbers may be limited based on current COVID guidelines. 2) Participants MUST wear a face covering on the tram. 3) Participants must pre-pay for the tour. 4) Participants cannot attend the tour if they have any of the following symptoms: cough, shortness of breath, fever, chills, muscle pain, sore throat, or new loss of taste or smell.
06/30/20215:30 p.m. - 8:30 p.m. Sunset Kayak Paddle
Location: Meet at Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge for transport into False Cape
Join us for a paddle on wildlife-filled Back Bay, a slow moving and scenic body of water that meanders along maritime-forests and wind-driven marshes. On this adventure, we will see plants and animals rarely seen in the city and learn about the amazing history of the area. During paddles, we regularly see bald eagles, great egrets, great blue herons, cormorants, and many types of songbirds. If we are lucky, we could also spot some playful river otters swimming nearby. Don't forget a water bottle, sunscreen, and bug spray.
All equipment is provided, no experience is necessary.
Cost: $25 per person and a Back Bay Refuge entrance fee is required from April to October: $5 per vehicle, $2 per bicycle or pedestrian. Reservations are required, and space is limited. To make a reservation please call the park at (757) 426-7128. All programs meet at the Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge visitor center.
07/02/20219:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. Summer Wildlife Tram Tour
Location: Meet at Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge for transport to False Cape
Take a 4 hour guided tour through Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge and False Cape State Park! Spot wildlife from the Blue Goose Tram and learn the history of this spectacular area. Participants can be dropped off at the visitor center at False Cape and picked up at the end of the tour, or they can continue with the tram to the Wash Woods church and cemetery site for a guided hike (1 mile round trip). Please note, the tram does not transport campers.
From Memorial Day-Labor Day, the tram tour runs on Monday evenings and Wednesday, Friday, and Sunday mornings. Cost: $8 per person, $5 entrance fee for Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge per car. Reservations are required. Make reservations by calling the park at (757) 426-7128.
To protect the safety of participants and staff: 1) Participant numbers may be limited based on current COVID guidelines. 2) Participants MUST wear a face covering on the tram. 3) Participants must pre-pay for the tour. 4) Participants cannot attend the tour if they have any of the following symptoms: cough, shortness of breath, fever, chills, muscle pain, sore throat, or new loss of taste or smell.
07/02/20215:30 p.m. - 8:30 p.m. Sunset Kayak Paddle
Location: Meet at Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge for transport into False Cape
Join us for a paddle on wildlife-filled Back Bay, a slow moving and scenic body of water that meanders along maritime-forests and wind-driven marshes. On this adventure, we will see plants and animals rarely seen in the city and learn about the amazing history of the area. During paddles, we regularly see bald eagles, great egrets, great blue herons, cormorants, and many types of songbirds. If we are lucky, we could also spot some playful river otters swimming nearby. Don't forget a water bottle, sunscreen, and bug spray.
All equipment is provided, no experience is necessary.
Cost: $25 per person and a Back Bay Refuge entrance fee is required from April to October: $5 per vehicle, $2 per bicycle or pedestrian. Reservations are required, and space is limited. To make a reservation please call the park at (757) 426-7128. All programs meet at the Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge visitor center.
07/03/20219:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. Early Kayak Paddle
Location: Meet at Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge for transport into False Cape
Join us for a paddle on wildlife-filled Back Bay, a slow moving and scenic body of water that meanders along maritime-forests and wind-driven marshes. On this adventure, we will see plants and animals rarely seen in the city and learn about the amazing history of the area. During paddles, we regularly see bald eagles, great egrets, great blue herons, cormorants, and many types of songbirds. If we are lucky, we could also spot some playful river otters swimming nearby. Don't forget a water bottle, sunscreen, and bug spray.
All equipment is provided, no experience is necessary.
Cost: $25 per person and a Back Bay Refuge entrance fee is required from April to October: $5 per vehicle, $2 per bicycle or pedestrian. Reservations are required, and space is limited. To make a reservation please call the park at (757) 426-7128. All programs meet at the Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge visitor center.
07/04/20215:00 a.m. - 8:00 a.m. Sunrise Kayak Paddle
Location: Meet at Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge for transport into False Cape
Join us for a paddle on wildlife-filled Back Bay, a slow moving and scenic body of water that meanders along maritime-forests and wind-driven marshes. On this adventure, we will see plants and animals rarely seen in the city and learn about the amazing history of the area. During paddles, we regularly see bald eagles, great egrets, great blue herons, cormorants, and many types of songbirds. If we are lucky, we could also spot some playful river otters swimming nearby. Don't forget a water bottle, sunscreen, and bug spray.
All equipment is provided, no experience is necessary.
Cost: $25 per person and a Back Bay Refuge entrance fee is required from April to October: $5 per vehicle, $2 per bicycle or pedestrian. Reservations are required, and space is limited. To make a reservation please call the park at (757) 426-7128. All programs meet at the Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge visitor center.
07/04/20219:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. Summer Wildlife Tram Tour
Location: Meet at Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge for transport to False Cape
Take a 4 hour guided tour through Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge and False Cape State Park! Spot wildlife from the Blue Goose Tram and learn the history of this spectacular area. Participants can be dropped off at the visitor center at False Cape and picked up at the end of the tour, or they can continue with the tram to the Wash Woods church and cemetery site for a guided hike (1 mile round trip). Please note, the tram does not transport campers.
From Memorial Day-Labor Day, the tram tour runs on Monday evenings and Wednesday, Friday, and Sunday mornings. Cost: $8 per person, $5 entrance fee for Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge per car. Reservations are required. Make reservations by calling the park at (757) 426-7128.
To protect the safety of participants and staff: 1) Participant numbers may be limited based on current COVID guidelines. 2) Participants MUST wear a face covering on the tram. 3) Participants must pre-pay for the tour. 4) Participants cannot attend the tour if they have any of the following symptoms: cough, shortness of breath, fever, chills, muscle pain, sore throat, or new loss of taste or smell.
07/05/20215:30 p.m. - 8:30 p.m. Sunset Wildlife Tram Tour
Location: Meet at Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge for transport to False Cape
Take a 3 hour scenic drive through Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge and False Cape State Park! Spot wildlife from the Blue Goose Tram and learn the history of this spectacular area. Watch the sun set over Back Bay, and take home memories that will last a lifetime. Please note, sunset tours do not include a guided hike, and the tram does not transport campers.
From Memorial Day-Labor Day, the tram tour runs on Monday evenings and Wednesday, Friday, and Sunday mornings. Cost: $8 per person. Reservations are required. Make reservations by calling the park at (757) 426-7128.
To protect the safety of participants and staff: 1) Participant numbers may be limited based on current COVID guidelines. 2) Participants MUST wear a face covering on the tram. 3) Participants must pre-pay for the tour. 4) Participants cannot attend the tour if they have any of the following symptoms: cough, shortness of breath, fever, chills, muscle pain, sore throat, or new loss of taste or smell.
07/07/20219:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. Summer Wildlife Tram Tour
Location: Meet at Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge for transport to False Cape
Take a 4 hour guided tour through Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge and False Cape State Park! Spot wildlife from the Blue Goose Tram and learn the history of this spectacular area. Participants can be dropped off at the visitor center at False Cape and picked up at the end of the tour, or they can continue with the tram to the Wash Woods church and cemetery site for a guided hike (1 mile round trip). Please note, the tram does not transport campers.
From Memorial Day-Labor Day, the tram tour runs on Monday evenings and Wednesday, Friday, and Sunday mornings. Cost: $8 per person, $5 entrance fee for Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge per car. Reservations are required. Make reservations by calling the park at (757) 426-7128.
To protect the safety of participants and staff: 1) Participant numbers may be limited based on current COVID guidelines. 2) Participants MUST wear a face covering on the tram. 3) Participants must pre-pay for the tour. 4) Participants cannot attend the tour if they have any of the following symptoms: cough, shortness of breath, fever, chills, muscle pain, sore throat, or new loss of taste or smell.
07/07/20215:30 p.m. - 8:30 p.m. Sunset Kayak Paddle
Location: Meet at Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge for transport into False Cape
Join us for a paddle on wildlife-filled Back Bay, a slow moving and scenic body of water that meanders along maritime-forests and wind-driven marshes. On this adventure, we will see plants and animals rarely seen in the city and learn about the amazing history of the area. During paddles, we regularly see bald eagles, great egrets, great blue herons, cormorants, and many types of songbirds. If we are lucky, we could also spot some playful river otters swimming nearby. Don't forget a water bottle, sunscreen, and bug spray.
All equipment is provided, no experience is necessary.
Cost: $25 per person and a Back Bay Refuge entrance fee is required from April to October: $5 per vehicle, $2 per bicycle or pedestrian. Reservations are required, and space is limited. To make a reservation please call the park at (757) 426-7128. All programs meet at the Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge visitor center.
02/01/2021
     To       
12/21/2021
9:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. ****Volunteers Needed****
Location: Meet at Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge for transport to False Cape
Looking for an amazing volunteer opportunity in a totally unique setting? At False Cape State Park, we are always searching for dedicated volunteers who can assist with kayak paddles, visitor center operations, beach clean-ups, trail maintenance or other special projects within the park. If you are interested in volunteering, visiting our website or call the park at (757) 426-7128 and signup today http://www.dcr.virginia.gov/state-parks/volunteers

First Landing State Park
2500 Shore Dr., Virginia Beach, VA 23451
Phone: 757-412-2300   Email Address: firstlanding@dcr.virginia.gov
Web Site: www.dcr.virginia.gov/state-parks/first-landing
DateEvent
06/27/202110:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m. Wellness Walk
Location: Trail Center
Nature is essential to human health in more ways than one. Wander the trails with an Interpreter for a guided sensory experience to facilitate connection with Mother Nature.
All are welcome, but not best suited for young children.
06/27/20211:00 p.m. - 2:00 p.m. The Trees' Knees
Location: Meet at the first overlook behind the Trail Center
Are they stumps? Are they sprouts? Stop by to learn all about First Landing's cypress swamps and what you can do to protect them. A Ranger will be posted on the first overlook of the Bald Cypress Trail (behind the Trail Center). If needed, park staff can point you in the right direction.
06/27/20213:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m. Seaside Creations
Location: Meet at the Main Boardwalk
Want to make a sculpture out of seashells? Well, here's your chance. Let your imagination go wild as you create your very own shell masterpiece.
06/28/202111:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. Bald Cypress Stroll
Location: Meet at the Trail Center
Happy Trails! Head out with one of our Interpreters for a guided experience in nature. We'll venture through the maritime forest and delve deep into what makes First Landing State Park so special.
06/28/20211:00 p.m. - 2:00 p.m. Creature Feature
Location: Meet at the Trail Center
Ever wonder what it would be like to get up close to a wild animal? This chance to view one of our animal ambassadors offers a unique opportunity to understand the importance of respecting our wild creatures.
06/28/20213:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m. Treasures in the Sand
Location: Meet at the Main Boardwalk
Do you know what lives in the surf and sand? Stop by our touch table and take a closer look at what lives along the Chesapeake Bay shore.
06/29/202110:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m. If Turtles Could Talk
Location: Meet at the Beach Amphitheater
Get ready to walk the turtle walk and talk the turtle talk! This meet and greet with our reptilian animal ambassadors offers a unique opportunity to view wildlife up close and learn more about why its so important to respect and protect native species.
06/29/202112:00 p.m. - 1:00 p.m. The Trees' Knees
Location: Meet at the first overlook behind the Trail Center
Are they stumps? Are they sprouts? Stop by to learn all about First Landing's cypress swamps and what you can do to protect them. A Ranger will be posted on the first overlook of the Bald Cypress Trail (behind the Trail Center). If needed, park staff can point you in the right direction.
06/29/20213:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m. Marsh Madness
Location: Meet at The Narrows at 64th Street
The marshes surrounding the Chesapeake Bay's inlets and the creatures who call them home are very sensitive to human impact. At this touch table an Interpreter will give you the run down of marsh species to know and what kind of competition from human recreation they face.
06/30/202110:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m. Home Sweet Swamp
Location: Meet at the Trail Center
Join us for a true Bald Cypress Swamp adventure. We'll dip our buckets into the swamp to see what kind of amphibians, invertebrates, and other cool critters are living below the surface.
06/30/202112:00 p.m. - 1:00 p.m. Crafty Critters
Location: Meet at the Trail Center
Meet Interpreters at the Trail Center to get creative with nature and critters in mind! Join us each week for new, hands-on, arts, crafts, and activities - then bring your creations home.
06/30/20215:00 p.m. - 6:00 p.m. What's in the Nets?
Location: Meet at the Main Boardwalk
Join us for an exploration of some interesting animals that live under the water as we take our nets into the Chesapeake Bay. Learn to use a seine net and get to know some local marine plants and animals. Be prepared to get wet.
06/30/20218:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m. Themed Campfire
Location: Amphitheater (Behind the Main Visitor Center)
Gather 'round the campfire for classic camping fun as we illuminate the night with stories, activities, and more! Each Wednesday night our campfire will feature a different theme so join us each week for new topics and fun. S'mores availability is contingent on current COVID protocols, but the Camp Store sells the ingredients for you to take home and make your own.
07/01/202110:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m. Pollywog Party
Location: Meet at the Trail Center
Children are natural scientists! Each week we will gather to foster love and curiosity for the natural world among our youngest park demographic. Activities will be specifically geared towards approximately 3-5 year olds and include common themes in early childhood education including crafts, games, and other hands-on learning experiences.
07/01/202112:00 p.m. - 1:00 p.m. The Trees' Knees
Location: Meet at the first overlook behind the Trail Center
Are they stumps? Are they sprouts? Stop by to learn all about First Landing's cypress swamps and what you can do to protect them. A Ranger will be posted on the first overlook of the Bald Cypress Trail (behind the Trail Center). If needed, park staff can point you in the right direction.
07/01/20213:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m. What's in the Nets?
Location: Meet at the Main Boardwalk
Join us for an exploration of some interesting animals that live under the water as we take our nets into the Chesapeake Bay. Learn to use a seine net and get to know some local marine plants and animals. Be prepared to get wet.
07/02/202110:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m. Take a Hike!
Location: Meet at the Trail Center
Happy Trails! Head out with one of our Interpreters for a guided experience in nature. We'll venture through the maritime forest and delve deep into what makes First Landing State Park so special.
07/02/20211:00 p.m. - 2:00 p.m. Crafty Critters
Location: Meet at the Trail Center
Meet Interpreters at the Trail Center to get creative with nature and critters in mind! Join us each week for new, hands-on, arts, crafts, and activities - then bring your creations home.
07/02/20213:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m. Wilderness Survivial School
Location: Meet at the Trail Center
To stay safe in the outdoors you've got to stay aware of your surroundings and build your skills. Join a ranger each week for this introduction to wilderness safety and to develop a new outdoor skill, such as rope making, knot tying, fire starting, and more.
07/02/20216:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m. Bayside Crabbing
Location: Meet at The Cape Store
In this catch and release program, learn all about the Chesapeake Bay Blue Crab and why it is so important to the Bay, while you try your hand at catching a few on your own. Supplies will be available for purchase at the The Cape Camp Store. Fees for crabbing lines and bait are approximately $5. A fun Friday night experience for the whole family!
07/02/20218:30 p.m. - 9:30 p.m. Welcome Campfire
Location: Meet at the Beach Amphitheater
Gather 'round the campfire for classic camping fun as we illuminate the night with stories, activities, and more all to do with the one and only First Landing State Park! S'mores availability is contingent on current COVID protocols, but the Camp Store sells the ingredients for you to take home and make your own.
Join us Friday nights for a Welcome to FLSP campfire gathering and Wednesdays for campfire programs with rotating themes - every week will feature something new!
07/03/202110:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m. Home Sweet Swamp
Location: Meet at the Trail Center
Join us for a true Bald Cypress Swamp adventure. We'll dip our buckets into the swamp to see what kind of amphibians, invertebrates, and other cool critters are living below the surface.
07/03/202112:00 p.m. - 1:00 p.m. Creature Feature
Location: Meet at the Trail Center
Ever wonder what it would be like to get up close to a wild animal? This chance to view one of our animal ambassadors offers a unique opportunity to understand the importance of respecting our wild creatures.
07/03/20213:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m. Treasures in the Sand
Location: Meet at the Main Boardwalk
Do you know what lives in the surf and sand? Stop by our touch table and take a closer look at what lives along the Chesapeake Bay shore.
07/03/20216:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m. If Turtles Could Talk
Location: Meet at the Trail Center
Get ready to walk the turtle walk and talk the turtle talk! This meet and greet with our reptilian animal ambassadors offers a unique opportunity to view wildlife up close and learn more about why its so important to respect and protect native species.
07/03/20218:30 p.m. - 9:30 p.m. Night Hike
Location: Meet at the Trail Center
Join rangers for an experience on the trails at night - without the aid of a flashlight! Discover sensory awareness, nocturnal animals and more as you complete a few fun activities while venturing through the park after dark.
07/04/2021Special Event  11:00 a.m. - 8:00 p.m. Fourth of July Programs
Location: Meet at the Tent on the Beach at the end of the Main Boardwalk
Join us for an Independence Day to remember at FLSP! We will be conducting free educational programming throughout the day for beachgoers. Look for the tent at the end of the Main Boardwalk. See the schedule below for program details:
11 a.m. - 1 p.m. Star Spangled Crafts - Let your imagination run wild in this seaside crafting session. We will have several projects to choose from - then take your creations home!
3 p.m. Knee Deep Nets - Come down to the beach for an exploration of life under the water as we take our seine nets into the Bay and get to know local marine animals. Be prepared to get wet!
5 p.m. A Sandy Stroll - Get your toes in the sand and head out of the sand on this relaxing and informative stewardship themed beach walk. We will discuss Bay geology, resident plants and animals, and practice identifying shellfish while guests participate in optional beach clean-up activities.
7 p.m. Red, White, and Blue Crabs - In this classic summer catch and release program, find out all about the Chesapeake Bay Blue Crab and why it is so essential to the environment and the livelihood of Bay culture. Then try to catch a few on your own! (Stop by The Cape Store to purchase a crab line and bait).
07/05/202111:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. Home Sweet Swamp
Location: Meet at the Trail Center
Join us for a true Bald Cypress Swamp adventure. We'll dip our buckets into the swamp to see what kind of amphibians, invertebrates, and other cool critters are living below the surface.
07/05/20211:00 p.m. - 2:00 p.m. Seaside Creations
Location: Meet at the Main Boardwalk
Want to make a sculpture out of seashells? Well, here's your chance. Let your imagination go wild as you create your very own shell masterpiece.
07/05/20213:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m. The Trees' Knees
Location: Meet at the first overlook behind the Trail Center
Are they stumps? Are they sprouts? Stop by to learn all about First Landing's cypress swamps and what you can do to protect them. A Ranger will be posted on the first overlook of the Bald Cypress Trail (behind the Trail Center). If needed, park staff can point you in the right direction.
07/06/202110:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m. Take a Hike!
Location: Meet at the Trail Center
Happy Trails! Head out with one of our Interpreters for a guided experience in nature. We'll venture through the maritime forest and delve deep into what makes First Landing State Park so special.
07/06/202112:00 p.m. - 1:00 p.m. Treasures in the Sand
Location: Meet at the Main Boardwalk
Do you know what lives in the surf and sand? Stop by our touch table and take a closer look at what lives along the Chesapeake Bay shore.
07/06/20212:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m. Wilderness Survivial School
Location: Meet at the Trail Center
To stay safe in the outdoors you've got to stay aware of your surroundings and build your skills. Join a ranger each week for this introduction to wilderness safety and to develop a new outdoor skill, such as rope making, knot tying, fire starting, and more.
07/07/202111:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. Crafty Critters
Location: Meet at the Trail Center
Meet Interpreters at the Trail Center to get creative with nature and critters in mind! Join us each week for new, hands-on, arts, crafts, and activities - then bring your creations home.
07/07/20211:00 p.m. - 2:00 p.m. If Turtles Could Talk
Location: Meet at the Trail Center
Get ready to walk the turtle walk and talk the turtle talk! This meet and greet with our reptilian animal ambassadors offers a unique opportunity to view wildlife up close and learn more about why its so important to respect and protect native species.
07/07/20213:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m. Scales to Tails
Location: Meet at the Trail Center
How many animal inhabitants of First Landing can you identify? Stop by our table to engage with unique animal artifacts and learn more about the animal inhabitants of our park. Being hands-on is part of the fun.
07/07/20215:00 p.m. - 6:00 p.m. A Sandy Stroll
Location: Meet at the Main Boardwalk
Get your toes in the sand and head out of the sand on this relaxing and informative stewardship themed beach walk. We will discuss Bay geology, resident plants and animals, and practice identifying shellfish while guests participate in optional beach clean-up activities.
07/07/20218:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m. Themed Campfire
Location: Amphitheater (Behind the Main Visitor Center)
Gather 'round the campfire for classic camping fun as we illuminate the night with stories, activities, and more! Each Wednesday night our campfire will feature a different theme so join us each week for new topics and fun. S'mores availability is contingent on current COVID protocols, but the Camp Store sells the ingredients for you to take home and make your own.

High Bridge Trail State Park
(Mailing address) 6888 Green Bay Rd., Green Bay, VA 23942
Phone: 434-315-0457   Email Address: highbridgetrail@dcr.virginia.gov
Web Site: www.dcr.virginia.gov/state-parks/high-bridge-trail
DateEvent
06/27/20219:00 a.m. - 10:30 a.m. Art Series - Lichen Fungi
Location: River Road Picnic Area
Join a ranger at the River Road picnic area and learn about fungi with an artist's eye. Please bring a notepad or sketchbook and something to draw with.
Parking is at River Road with a $5 fee.
07/01/202110:00 a.m. - 11:30 a.m. Walk and Talk - Wildlife
Location: Camp Paradise
Come and join a ranger as they talk about a few of our native wildlife species and answer any questions you may have. Please wear appropriate shoes and sun protection.
Parking is at Camp Paradise with a $5 fee.
07/04/20219:00 a.m. - 10:30 a.m. Art Series - Circling Wonders
Location: River Road Picnic Area
Join a ranger at the River Road Picnic Area and learn about carrion birds with an artist's eye. Please bring a notepad or sketchbook and something to draw with.
Parking is at River Road with a $5 fee.

Holliday Lake State Park
2759 State Park Rd., Appomattox, VA 24522
Phone: 434-248-6308   Email Address: hollidaylake@dcr.virginia.gov
Web Site: www.dcr.virginia.gov/state-parks/holliday-lake
DateEvent
06/27/202110:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m. Bird's the Word
Location: Beach Area
Birds are everywhere. At Holliday Lake you can find them wading in the water and soaring in the sky. Some traverse the tree tops while others remain more grounded. Often birds can be secretive and elusive while their neighbors may show off their sweet song all day long. Join us as we discover this diversity among our feathered friends by searching for them around the park. We may see our resident pair of Kingfishers and Mockingbirds or possibly witness the long-running feud between the Osprey and Bald Eagle. Closed-toed shoes are required and binoculars are recommended.
Please contact the Park Office with any questions regarding park programs or to set up private programs for a group.
06/27/202112:00 p.m. - 1:00 p.m. Wildlife Detective
Location: Beach Area
Everyone leaves tracks. Do you have what it takes to be a Wildlife Detective and decipher different tracks of critters you may see in the park? Do you know the difference between a raccoon and an opossum track? Come test your skills with the ranger, we have all the tools you need to become a track sleuth.
06/27/20212:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m. Meet the Mammals
Location: Beach area
Did you know beaver skins were used to make hats that were internationally popular? Did you know coyotes came from the west, and wolves used to roam the forests instead? Visit the touch table to discover our shared history with some amazing Virginia mammals and understand our place in the wild.
07/02/20216:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m. Roving Ranger
Location: Campgrounds
Look for the park naturalists as they walk around the campgrounds to show off some interesting items that were found at Holliday Lake. Each week may yield a new surprise. This is a great time to ask questions and get information about upcoming park programs.
07/02/20217:30 p.m. - 8:30 p.m. Welcome Campfire
Location: Campfire Circle
What says camping more than joining your fellow campers around a campfire? To help you get oriented to the park, join the interpretive staff for our Welcome Campfire. Feel free to bring a chair and a good story to share. S'mores will also be available.
07/03/202110:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m. A Stone's Throw: The Atlatl and the Spear
Location: Amphitheater (Campfire Circle)
Not too far from Holliday Lake State Park, along the Appomattox River, was a Native American village where people began living about 6,000 years ago. Evidence of their existence can be found scattered across this region in the form of a very important tool: the projectile point. Stones shaped by force and attached to the end of a wooden shaft became the predominant method for hunting and defense for this culture and others around the world.
Join us to learn the ancient art of spear-throwing with a modern twist, and discover your connections to the people of the past. This program is designed for anyone 10 years of age and older. Pre-registration is required if your group has 10 or more individuals. Please email hollidaylake@dcr.virginia.gov to sign up for this program, ask questions regarding park programs, or set up private programs for a group.
07/03/202112:00 p.m. - 1:00 p.m. Living on the Edge
Location: T-dock (Left of Beach)
The lake's edge is shelter to some animals and a feast for others. Look for the park naturalist along the shore as we roll up our sleeves and try to observe aquatic creatures from a different point of view. We might find some minnows or dragonfly larvae, and, if we look closely enough, we may even spot the infamous grass shrimp. Water shoes are recommended but not required.
Please contact the Park Office with any questions regarding park programs or to set up private programs for a group.
07/03/20213:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m. All That Glitters
Location: Beach Area
There's a little gold in the water of Holliday Creek, but how do we find it? Take a closer look at how prospectors searched for gold and why they picked central Virginia. We will guide you through the panning process as you separate the rocks from the riches. The gold panning equipment will be set up for the entire hour, so feel free to stop by at any time.
Please contact the Park Office with any questions regarding park programs or to set up private programs for a group.
07/03/20219:00 p.m. - 10:00 p.m. Beneath the Surface
Location: T-dock near Beach
A light glows beneath the surface of Holliday Lake. Watch as insects are first drawn from the darkness to the bright light, followed by minnows, then bigger fish, and eventually turtles. This evening program illuminates what lies in the depths below and sheds light on the active nightlife under the water. Participants are encouraged to bring a flashlight, bug spray, and a light jacket for the cooler nights. The underwater lights will stay on for the entire hour.
Please contact the Park Office with any questions regarding park programs or to set up private programs for a group.
07/04/202110:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m. Bird's the Word
Location: Beach Area
Birds are everywhere. At Holliday Lake you can find them wading in the water and soaring in the sky. Some traverse the tree tops while others remain more grounded. Often birds can be secretive and elusive while their neighbors may show off their sweet song all day long. Join us as we discover this diversity among our feathered friends by searching for them around the park. We may see our resident pair of Kingfishers and Mockingbirds or possibly witness the long-running feud between the Osprey and Bald Eagle. Closed-toed shoes are required and binoculars are recommended.
Please contact the Park Office with any questions regarding park programs or to set up private programs for a group.
07/04/202112:00 p.m. - 1:00 p.m. Wildlife Detective
Location: Beach Area
Everyone leaves tracks. Do you have what it takes to be a Wildlife Detective and decipher different tracks of critters you may see in the park? Do you know the difference between a raccoon and an opossum track? Come test your skills with the ranger, we have all the tools you need to become a track sleuth.
07/04/20212:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m. Meet the Mammals
Location: Beach area
Did you know beaver skins were used to make hats that were internationally popular? Did you know coyotes came from the west, and wolves used to roam the forests instead? Visit the touch table to discover our shared history with some amazing Virginia mammals and understand our place in the wild.
01/01/2021
     To       
12/31/2021
8:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. Geocaching in the Park
Location: Around the Park
Got your own GPS unit? Then pick up a list of coordinates at the Park Office for free. All park caches have collector's cards and are usually history or nature themed. The park grounds are open for geocaching from 8 a.m. until dusk every day of the year.
Park-owned GPS units are currently unavailable to rent. Please see the info below for when they are available again:
Rentals include a GPS unit with some coordinates already loaded and instructions for use. The cost is $10 per day or $6.00 per half day and can be obtained Monday through Friday at the Park Office from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. in the fall, winter, and early spring. GPS units are available seven days a week from Memorial Day to Labor Day at the Park Office.
01/01/2021
     To       
12/31/2021
8:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. Scavenger Hunt
Location: Park Office or Contact Station
Holliday Lake has many hidden wonders waiting to be discovered. Come look for items commonly found in nature and check them off your list. You can pick up a copy from the Park Office (Labor Day-Memorial Day) or Contact Station (Memorial Day-Labor Day), or you can print one from here: http://tinyurl.com/czignoh.
Included on the list are items you can see, hear, feel, and smell. Do this as a group or with family and friends for even more fun. Bring your completed Scavenger Hunt list to the Park Office (during regular business hours) for a prize. Please always remember to watch where you step, stay on the trail, and leave all items where you found them.
01/01/2021
     To       
12/31/2021
8:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. Sunfish Aquatic Trail
Location: Park Office, Contact Station, or Boat House
This self-guided boat tour leads you around the southern side of Holliday Lake and points out how plants and animals live in this amazing community. Brochures describing what you might see along the trail are available at the Park Office, Contact Station, or Boat House. The numbered entries in the brochure map correspond to numbered posts along the shore. You can bring your own boat or rent one of ours during normal working hours in the warmer months. Your journey on the water should take about 30 to 45 minutes.

Hungry Mother State Park
2854 Park Blvd., Marion, VA 24354
Phone: 276-781-7400   Email Address: HungryMother@dcr.virginia.gov
Web Site: www.dcr.virginia.gov/state-parks/hungry-mother
DateEvent
06/27/20219:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m. Early Morning Kayak Tour
Location: Dock N Shop
Join an interpreter as he/she leads you on a paddle around the lake at one of the most scenic times of the year. Listen to the historical stories of the CCC or learn more about the natural resources at Hungry Mother. Must be at least 8 years old. Pre-register at the Discovery Center. $10/person
06/27/20211:00 p.m. - 2:00 p.m. Frog Hop
Location: Boat Ramp off of Mitchell Valley Rad
Let's explore some wetlands and see what types of frogs we can find. Take a short stroll around good frog habitat, while learning about the different types of frogs we have here in Virginia. Afterward, make your own frog to take home.
06/27/20213:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m. Trick Your Stick
Location: Discovery Center Deck
With 18 miles of trails in the park, how do you know which one is your favorite? Hike them all, but before you do, come make a hiking stick to help you out along the way. Pick a stick, decorate it, and then take it home with you. All materials are supplied. Cost: $3
06/27/20217:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m. Forest Therapy Practice
Location: Parking Lot 2
De-stress with Master Naturalist Tina Hayes in an immersive nature experience for better health, wellness, and healing. She will lead you as you learn to relax your mind and body before bedtime and enjoy the beauty and calm of the woods around you. Call the Discovery Center by Saturday to register.
06/28/202110:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. Jr. Naturalist Program
Location: Shelter 2
Irresponsible fishermen and other people can leave behind litter that can have a strong impact on the environment. Learn how to be a responsible fisherman and craft your own line collection bottle. At the end of the day, all the responsible fishermen will collect another bead.
06/28/20211:00 p.m. - 2:00 p.m. Beach Scavenger Hunt
Location: Beach
Ever been curious about something you found in nature? Then stop by the interpreter's table for a list of natural items. Join us as we scurry around the beach discovering the many natural elements Hungry Mother has to offer.
06/28/20213:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m. Secret Lives of Trees
Location: Clyburn Ridge Trailhead
Tree have a lot of secrets. Come to the interpreter's table to learn some of these secrets. Then, make your own tree necklace.
06/30/202110:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. Jr. Naturalist Program
Location: Shelter 2
Irresponsible fishermen and other people can leave behind litter that can have a strong impact on the environment. Learn how to be a responsible fisherman and craft your own line collection bottle. At the end of the day, all the responsible fishermen will collect another bead.
06/30/20211:00 p.m. - 2:00 p.m. Poss em or Toss em
Location: Parking Lot 6
Play a trivia game to learn about all the adaptations that make the Virginia Opossum one of the coolest animals in the forest.
06/30/20213:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m. Critter Crawl
Location: Parking Lot 2
What's hiding under that rock? We will search the creek for underwater creatures and explain their important roles in the environment. Wear closed-toed shoes and expect to get wet.
06/30/20217:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m. Paddle in the Park
Location: Dock N Shop
Join an interpreter to canoe the lake at one of the prettiest times during the day. Discover a little about the history of the park. From the first days of the CCC to today, there is evidence around the lake of the changes over time. Must be 8 years old. $6/per person. Sign up at the Discovery Center prior to program.
07/01/20219:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m. Branch Out
Location: CLyburn Trail Head
Embark on an adventure to discover ways to tell trees apart. Also see a very special tree that dates all the way back to the CCC. Bring water and wear sturdy shoes.
07/01/20211:00 p.m. - 2:00 p.m. Owl Pellet Investigation
Location: Colson Place
Owls are known for their phenomenal ability to hunt. Investigate what an owl's last meal was.
07/01/20213:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m. Survival Bracelets
Location: Discovery Center
Ever wonder why they are called "survival" bracelets? Find out as you make your own unique paracord survival bracelet to take home. Cost: $3
07/02/20217:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m. Music in the Park- Pointer Brothers
Location: Gazebo
Our popular outdoor concert series returns. Join us on the lawn at the Gazebo for wonderful music in the great outdoors. Many of our musicians are our favorite local bands/singers, but we also offer musicians never before heard in our area. Musical styles range from bluegrass, country, folk, acoustic, pop, and oldies to Americana. Please don't forget to bring something to sit on whether it's a blanket for the ground or a comfortable camp chair, as we only have a few picnic tables close to the Gazebo.
May 28: Supper Break- Acoustic
June 4: Josh & Maria- Folk Rock
June 11: Pointer Brothers- Bluegrass/Folk/Jazz
June 18: Bill & Maggie Anderson- Americana
June 25: Kat Mills- Folk
July 2: Pointer Brothers- Bluegrass/Folk/Jazz
July 9: Valley Grass- Bluegrass/Gospel
July 16: No Music due to Arts and Crafts Festival
July 23: Raymond Akers- Solo
July 30: A Little Bit More- Americana/Country
August 6: Ryan Ward- Solo Acoustic
August 13: No Music due to Relay for Life (Will depend on Covid restrictions)
August 20: Virginia Remnants - Rock Americana
August 27: Haze & Dacey - Pop-Folk/Roots-Rock
September 3: Bill Huber & Friends- Folk/Contemporary
07/04/20219:00 a.m. - 10:00 a.m. Get Hooked on Fishing
Location: Boat Ramp off Mitchell Valley Road
Join us to learn the basics of this classic American pastime. Interpreters will share tips and tricks to help you enjoy the sport. Equipment provided.
07/04/202111:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. Trick Your Stick
Location: Discovery Center
With 18 miles of trails in the park, how do you know which one is your favorite? Hike them all, but before you do, come make a hiking stick to help you out along the way. Pick a stick, decorate it, and then take it home with you. All materials are supplied. $3/person
07/04/20211:00 p.m. - 2:00 p.m. Watermelon Seed Spitting Contest
Location: Beach
Let's take a trip back to when we were kids and see who can spit their watermelon seed the farthest. Ready, set, spit. Watermelon provided, one piece per person.
07/04/20213:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m. Homemade Ice Cream
Location: Gazebo
What does a plastic bag, ice, milk, and sugar have in common? They all are part of making ice cream. Let's beat the heat this Independence Day by making ice cream the traditional way and then let's enjoy our creations.
07/04/20218:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m. Luminary Hike and Campfire
Location: Beach overlook near Molly's Knob trailhead
Join an interpreter for an easy guided hike ending with a relaxing campfire. You may see some night wildlife, and you'll definitely enjoy the peace of the evening woods.
07/05/20211:00 p.m. - 2:00 p.m. Bird Beak Buffet
Location: Beach
Just as we use different tools to eat different things, birds use their beaks in different ways based on what they eat too. Come and discover some unique bird adaptations that allow for birds to survive everywhere. Then, make a pinecone bird feeder to take home.
07/05/20213:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m. Skin and Bones
Location: Beach
Why do animals' coats come in so many different colors and patterns? Why would anyone keep an animal's pelt? Can you tell which skull goes with which fur? Come to the Interpreter's table and find out the answers to these and many other animal questions.
07/07/20211:00 p.m. - 2:00 p.m. Critter Crawl
Location: Boat Ramp off Mitchell Valey Road
What's hiding under that rock? We will search the creek for underwater creatures and explain their important roles in the environment. Wear closed-toed shoes and expect to get wet.
07/07/20213:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m. World Wide Web
Location: Camp Burson in front of Natural Reasource Building
Every organism on the planet has a place in the food chain. Let's investigate who fits in where and create a food web craft to take home.
07/07/20217:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m. Paddle in the Park
Location: Dock n' Shop
Join an interpreter to canoe the lake at one of the prettiest times during the day. Discover a little about the history of the park. From the first days of the CCC to today, there is evidence around the lake of the changes over time. Must be 8 years old and wear closed-toed shoes. Must pre-register. $6/per person.
01/01/2021
     To       
12/31/2021
7:00 a.m. - 10:00 p.m. Clyburn Hollow Tree Scavenger Hunt
Location: Clyburn Ridge Trailhead
Our leaves may be missing right now, but they will be unfurling soon. We are still alive and well, providing important habitat for the creatures of Hungry Mother's woods. See if you can discover what trees we are with a few hints and some investigation. We think you will be able to find every one of us hiding in plain sight. Grab a brochure found at the Clyburn Ridge Trailhead kiosk and then try to match our names and our description to our pictures with the numbers provided. See if you can find us all.
01/01/2021
     To       
12/31/2021
8:00 a.m. - 10:00 p.m. Self-guided Stargazing for all seasons
Location: Beach Parking Lot Kiosk
Attention all stargazers, the night sky is calling. Here at Hungry Mother, we have some prime viewing areas located at the spillway, the beach front and the ballfield behind Ferrell Hall. Year-round the sky is filled with stars, planets, and constellations with stories to tell. Here in the Northern Hemisphere we have circumpolar constellations that can be viewed all year long. What are we waiting for? Let's go stargazing. Pick up a brochure at the beach kiosk. Watch for different ones. As the year progresses, new brochures with new constellations will be available. Take a blanket or a chair, dress for the appropriate weather and enjoy the peacefulness of the night sky.
01/01/2021
     To       
12/31/2021
8:00 a.m. - 8:00 p.m. Geo-caching
Location: Various locations throughout the Park
Geo-caching is a game that combines technology with old-fashioned treasure hunting. Played worldwide, the game is a great family activity that gets you outside together. Gamers track caches using GPS systems and coordinates. Caches are small containers with a treasure inside. Gamers can sign the logbook and see how many other people have found the cache. Pick up our Geo-caching brochure at the Discovery Center/Office kiosk and enjoy a fun day of discovery.
03/08/2021
     To       
12/31/2021
8:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. Hungry Mother State Park Jr. Naturalist Booklet
Location: Discovery Center
Hey kids! Come by the Discovery Center and pick up a copy of our new Jr. Naturalist Booklet. Wander around the park as you complete the activities in your Jr. Naturalist booklet. When it is all done, bring it back to the Discovery Center for a Jr. Naturalist patch. Discover about different habitats, animals, plants and so much more. If you would like to print off a copy before you come to the park, go to https://www.dcr.virginia.gov/state-parks/document/HM-Junior-Naturalist-Booklet.pdf.
01/01/2021
     To       
12/31/2021
10:00 a.m. - 6:30 p.m. ''Come Take a Walk in My Shoes'' CCC Scavenger Hunt
Location: Various locations throughout the park
The CCC Self-guided Scavenger Hunt leads guests through three separate historical adventures of Hungry Mother State Park's Civilian Conservation Corps history. Investigate clues about a variety of CCC historical areas still remaining throughout the park, and see if you can find these hidden gems. Once you find them, learn about some of the amazing history each area contains relative to the CCC and the park's beginning. Each adventure can be enjoyed individually, or explore all three during your stay.
Three guides will be available at the Discovery Center. Each guide is based on different cultural points of view: "An Old Timer once told me", "A Dollar-a-Day Man once told me", and "A Ranger once told me". Use the booklets to find three clues about each location. Each booklet contains seven separate locations, totaling 21 different historical sites related to the CCC and the park's beginning. Guides contain visual, historical, and cultural clues, along with approximate walking distances and direction to each site based on four primary starting points at the park.
01/01/2021
     To       
12/31/2022
8:00 a.m. - 8:00 p.m. CCC Self-Guided Interpretive Trail
Location: Various Locations Throughout the Park
Enjoy a walk on one of the park's many trails, the Lake Trail. As you saunter along, you'll take a step back into history as you discover the stories behind several of the park's original structures. You can begin your journey at any point along the Lake Trail. Follow the signs around the trail to learn just how important the Civilian Conservation Corps was to the park. This trail is ADA accessible from Parking Lot 1 to Parking Lot 6.
01/01/2021
     To       
12/31/2022
8:00 a.m. - 6:30 p.m. Civilian Conservation Corps Geocache Adventure
Location: Various locations throughout the Park
Go on a geocache adventure to learn about the very tools that were used to build the park. First, pick up a CCC geocache Adventure book from the Discovery Center. Using your own GPS unit, enter the coordinates from the first page of the booklet. Follow the GPS unit to the first sign. Using the booklet, find the page that coordinates with the tool shown and make a rubbing using a writing utensil. Then, follow the GPS to the next sign.
Once you have made rubbings of all of the tools in the book, return your book to the Discovery Center for a special CCC surprise. You can visit a few or as many signs as you like. The complete adventure covers approximately six miles. Various points are accessible by car if you do not have the time available for a six-mile hike.
01/01/2021
     To       
12/31/2022
8:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m. Track Trail Adventure
Location: Parking Lot 6
Go on an adventure with Kip and discover amazing things out in nature. Kids can take up to four different adventures using the brochures found at the Track Trail kiosk at the end of Parking Lot 6 across the rock bridge which was built by the Civilian Conservation Corps. See what can be found in nature as you hike along the Lake Trail or another trail in the park.

James River State Park
104 Green Hill Dr., Gladstone, VA 24553
Phone: 434-933-4355   Email Address: JamesRiver@dcr.virginia.gov
Web Site: www.dcr.virginia.gov/state-parks/james-river
DateEvent
06/27/2021National Event  10:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m. Skins, skulls and Scat
Location: Visitor Center
Ever wonder what kind of furry creatures call James River State Park home? Come out and learn how you can identify some of Virginia's native mammals by comparing their furs, skulls, and teeth! Find out how many different animal tracks you can identify, and if you're brave enough, examine some scat replicas to find out what our mammal friends may have eaten for breakfast! Please wear a mask and follow social distancing protocols. Please meet behind the Visitor Center.
06/27/20211:00 p.m. - 2:00 p.m. Whose Tracks?
Location: Canoe Landing
Who was there? Where did they go? What might they have been doing? Just because we don't always spot them, we know the animals are around by the tracks they leave behind. We will take a look at different animal tracks you might find here in the park and what other clues might help you figure out what was walking about when you weren't looking. We will make a plaster mold of an animal track you can take home as a keepsake. Each plaster mold will cost $2.
07/02/20214:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m. Survival Skills
Location: Frog Hollow at Taylor Pond near Red Oak Campground
Discover how fire affects our world and how man attempts to control it. We'll also learn about different methods for building a fire which might save your life in a survival situation. Ever build a fire with flint and steel? Free
07/02/20216:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m. Ring the Banjo
Location: Meet behind the Visitor Center
Did you know that the five-string banjo was invented in this area? The banjo has played an important part in American history and mountain life. Join us for an educational and fun program telling the life of the banjo and hear some live music from original 19th-century banjos. There will be some original artifacts on display. Bring a blanket and sit under the shade of the trees and enjoy some music. Free. Help us make a safe environment for yourself and others. Masks are required for programs.
07/02/20218:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m. Tye Overlook Wagon
Location: Canoe Livery
Take a wagon ride to the scenic Tye Overlook and enjoy the prettiest view for miles around. While we're up there, we'll discuss nature, local history, and other activities to enjoy in and around the park. There is a short (150 yard) walk to the overlook so please wear appropriate footwear. Pre-registration required by phone at 434-933-8527 or at our Visitor Center, when you arrive at the park. $3/person. Sorry, no pets allowed on the wagon. The ride will be weather permitting.
07/03/20211:00 p.m. - 2:00 p.m. Turtle Time
Location: Meet at the Visitor Center
Come see our newest member of the family "Boxer" the box turtle. Learn how turtles live and interact with their environment, what they eat and how their adaptations help them survive. We can also give you some great pointers on how to care for your pet turtle if you have one. Free.
Help us make a safe environment for yourself and others. Masks are required for programs. We are only allowed 10 people indoors for this program. Please sign up at the Visitor Center before the program.
07/03/20212:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m. Guided Canoe Trip
Location: Canoe Livery
Join the park interpreter for a two mile canoe paddle on the river. We'll discuss a number of things as we float along, and hopefully see some wildlife: Eagles, Osprey, Great Blue Herons, several different types of fish, and maybe even an otter or muskrat. The group will also stop at Treasure Island (which is about half-way through the trip) to see if we can find any aquatic wildlife. Pre-registration required by phone at 434-933-8682 or at our Canoe Livery when you arrive at the park. $30 (includes canoe) plus $3.00 pp for guide. Minimum age for guided float is six years old. Closed toed shoes required. Please arrive early. Canoes leaves at 2pm.
07/03/20214:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m. Gold Fever!
Location: Meet at Green Hill Pond
Buckingham County has a rich history of gold mining, and there may be flecks of gold in our waterways just waiting to be found. Pan for gold in the James River while learning about Virginia's unique geology, the rocks and minerals of the park and the magnetic sand on the banks of the river. This program is free, but you must sign up in advance at the Visitor Center. Ages 10 and over only. Wear closed-toed shoes and be prepared to get wet. Meet at Green Hill Pond. Free
07/03/20216:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m. Bee Hotels
Location: Canoe Landing

This fun hands on workshop and we will use recycled materials to build habitats for the docile mason bees that will help your garden at home.
07/03/20219:00 p.m. - 10:30 p.m. Night Hike
Location: Green Hill Pond
Ever wonder what kind of animals are lurking in the night? Our wetlands serve multiple purposes, but they are excellent hunting grounds for many of our nocturnal animals. We will show you how they use these skills with some hands on activities. Wear some comfortable closed-toe shoes for this tour through our wetlands at night! Sorry no pets or dogs. Meet at Green Hill Pond. Free!
07/04/202110:00 a.m. - 11:00 p.m. Feeding Frenzy
Location: Meet behind the Visitor Center
Meet our friendly resident corn snake, Cob, and observe his feeding habits in person. We also have a new member of the family Cleo the King Snake. Learn how to identify venomous and non-venomous native species and discuss the importance of snakes in the ecosystem. This is a great opportunity for a truly hands-on experience with this docile Virginia reptile. Free. Help us make a safe environment for yourself and others. Masks are required for programs.
07/04/20211:00 p.m. - 2:00 p.m. Seed Bombs
Location: Visitor Center
What is a seed bomb? Come and find out. We can tell you we will be using slingshots to launch them. Pollinator gardens are beautiful to the eyes, but those little critters visiting the garden are helpful at the dinner table as well. We will discuss the important role of pollinators in our food chain and who those pollinators are. You can enjoy our pollinator garden and bee hotel behind the Visitor Center. You'll be ready to plant your own pollinator garden when you get home.

Kiptopeke State Park
3540 Kiptopeke Dr., Cape Charles, VA 23310
Phone: 757-331-2267   Email Address: kiptopeke@dcr.virginia.gov
Web Site: www.dcr.virginia.gov/state-parks/kiptopeke
DateEvent
06/27/202110:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m. History Hike
Location: Hawkwatch Platform Parking
Discover the historical significance and previous uses of the land which is now Kiptopeke State Park on a guided ranger hike! You will learn about the old Tourinns Motor Court site, the park's previous use as an automobile ferry landing, how the state park was eventually created, as well as many other interesting facts.
06/27/202112:00 p.m. - 2:00 p.m. Crabbing
Location: Fishing Pier
Reservations Only, limited to 15 participants: Sign up at the Camp Store (757) 331-3400 Learn hands on about the simple, relaxing hobby of crabbing. The fishing pier is a former ferry landing that juts out into the Chesapeake Bay and it is a great place to fish and crab. A park ranger will be assisting with knot-tying, lures, and casting. Forgot your crab trap? That's ok. The park provides them and bait. This is a great program for adults and children new to crabbing. If you get hooked on this family fun, the park's camp store stocks a full array of fishing and crabbing tackle and bait. An FIP (Fisherman Identification Program) is free and required at http://www.mrc.virginia.gov/FIP . $2/person, $6/family. Know Before You Go: Before your visit, find the most up to date health and safety information at https://www.dcr.virginia.gov/state-parks/besafe
07/01/20212:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m. Netting on the Beach
Location: South Beach, meet at Fishing Pier Entrance
Try your hand at a variety of netting techniques demonstrated by a Park Ranger. See what lives in the waters of Kiptopeke. Bring sunscreen, water, and be prepared to get wet!
07/02/20212:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m. Pier Fishing
Location: Fishing Pier
Reservations Only, limited to 15 participants: Sign up at the Camp Store (757) 331-3400Listen to your lure splash into the Chesapeake Bay as you cast your line into the water off the fishing pier. Wait for a wiggle and nibble then reel in your fish. The fishing pier is a former ferry landing that juts out into the Chesapeake Bay and it is a great place to fish. A park ranger will be assisting with knot-tying, lures, and casting. Forgot your fishing rod? That's ok. The park provides them and bait. This is a great program for adults and children new to fishing. If you get hooked on this family fun, the park's camp store stocks a full array of fishing and crabbing tackle and bait. An FIP (Fisherman Identification Program) is free and required at http://www.mrc.virginia.gov/FIP. $2/person, $6/family. Know Before You Go: Before your visit, find the most up to date health and safety information at https://www.dcr.virginia.gov/state-parks/besafe
07/02/20217:30 p.m. - 9:00 p.m. Campfire
Location: Amphitheater
Join us around the campfire for an introduction to the Natural, Historical, and Cultural treasures of Kiptopeke. Watch the sunset over the ships and join in on the campfire comradery.Know Before You Go: Before your visit, find the most up to date health and safety information at https://www.dcr.virginia.gov/state-parks/besafe
07/03/202110:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. Pirate Treasure Hunt
Location: Meet at Picnic Shelter 1
"X" marks the spot. Pretend you are a pirate in the park. Can you navigate your way to the treasure reading part of a map and tracing the path of pirates from the past?Know Before You Go: Before your visit, find the most up to date health and safety information at https://www.dcr.virginia.gov/state-parks/besafe
07/03/20211:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m. Tie Dye
Location: Picnic Shelter 2
Embrace the height of 1960's fashion as your create your very own tie-dye shirt that will remind you of your trip to Kiptopeke every time you wear it. Shirts available for $8 or bring your own item. Pay in advance at the Camp Store (bring a receipt) or pay in cash at the program!
07/03/20217:30 p.m. - 9:00 p.m. Owl Prowl
Location: Picnic Shelter 1
Join us on this hike through a maritime forest out to the bluffs at sunset. Marvel at shorebirds, eagles, and other wildlife that live in or migrate through the Chesapeake Bay region. Once the sun has slipped out of sight let the moon be your guide as we travel the trails looking and listening for the wildlife that can be found in our park. As we negotiate the trails, we'll discuss the native owls and night birds of Virginia, engage them in conversation, and try to see them up close. This is a ranger-guided program so if you are new to the outdoors and night hiking, it is a great program for you. Bring a flash light, but be prepared to turn it off.
07/04/202110:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m. History Hike
Location: Hawkwatch Platform Parking
Discover the historical significance and previous uses of the land which is now Kiptopeke State Park on a guided ranger hike! You will learn about the old Tourinns Motor Court site, the park's previous use as an automobile ferry landing, how the state park was eventually created, as well as many other interesting facts.
07/04/202112:00 p.m. - 2:00 p.m. Crabbing
Location: Fishing Pier
Reservations Only, limited to 15 participants: Sign up at the Camp Store (757) 331-3400 Learn hands on about the simple, relaxing hobby of crabbing. The fishing pier is a former ferry landing that juts out into the Chesapeake Bay and it is a great place to fish and crab. A park ranger will be assisting with knot-tying, lures, and casting. Forgot your crab trap? That's ok. The park provides them and bait. This is a great program for adults and children new to crabbing. If you get hooked on this family fun, the park's camp store stocks a full array of fishing and crabbing tackle and bait. An FIP (Fisherman Identification Program) is free and required at http://www.mrc.virginia.gov/FIP . $2/person, $6/family. Know Before You Go: Before your visit, find the most up to date health and safety information at https://www.dcr.virginia.gov/state-parks/besafe

Lake Anna State Park
6800 Lawyers Rd., Spotsylvania, VA 22551
Phone: 540-854-5503   Email Address: LakeAnna@dcr.virginia.gov
Web Site: www.dcr.virginia.gov/state-parks/lake-anna
DateEvent
06/27/202111:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. Gold Panning
Location: Throughout Park
Get ready to catch gold fever. Mosey on over and join our interpretive rangers on a quest for this elusive mineral. You'll discover the history of gold in Virginia and learn the finer points of placer mining and how to work a pan.
Then we'll head down to the edge of Old Pond and see what washes up.
Space is limited, please pre-register. Free.
Advance registration required for all programs. Please leave a message on the Visitor Center answering machine (540) 854-6245 with your name, how many in group, name of the program, date and time of program and your contact information.
Meeting location will be conveyed during registration confirmation.
06/27/20211:00 p.m. - 2:00 p.m. Light Your Fire
Location: Throughout Park
Spark an interest in primitive camping skills and join the ranger to test your fire making skills using our flint & steel. We'll discover alternative fire making methods to assist you in almost any situation. Learn to start a fire just like the survivalists on TV. Children 15 yrs. and under must be accompanied by an adult. Free
Space is limited, please pre-register.
Advance registration required for all programs. Please leave a message on the Visitor Center answering machine (540) 854-6245 with your name, how many in group, name of the program, date and time of program and your contact information.
Meeting location will be conveyed during registration confirmation.
Know Before You Go: Before your visit, find the most up to date health and safety information at https://www.dcr.virginia.gov/state-parks/covid-19-update
06/27/20213:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m. Turtle Time
Location: Throughout Park
Ready, set, crawl. 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. You will have an opportunity to stay and help the rangers during the feeding. Free
Space is limited, please pre-register.
Advance registration required for all programs. Please leave a message on the Visitor Center answering machine (540) 854-6245 with your name, how many in group, name of the program, date and time of program and your contact information.
Meeting location will be conveyed during registration confirmation.
Know Before You Go: Before your visit, find the most up to date health and safety information at https://www.dcr.virginia.gov/state-parks/covid-19-update

Leesylvania State Park
2001 Daniel K. Ludwig Dr., Woodbridge, VA 22191
Phone: 703-730-8205   Email Address: Leesylvania@dcr.virginia.gov
Web Site: www.dcr.virginia.gov/state-parks/leesylvania
DateEvent
06/27/20219:00 a.m. - 11:30 a.m. Canoe Tours
Location: Visitor Center
Paddle out with a ranger and see Leesylvania State Park like never before! Take in the beauty of Powell's Creek, watch the majestic bald eagles soar above, and witness the agile ospreys dive into the waters in search of fish. No paddling experience is required. Don't forget your hat, water, sunscreen and sunglasses! Please arrive 10 min early at the Visitor Center to pay the program fee and receive your PFD. Price is $10 dollars per person and the parking fee is waived for those attending the program. Call, leave a message, or email us to reserve your spot. Each session is limited to 12 people. Facemasks are required for unvaccinated individuals.
Leesylvania State Park Visitor Center: 703-583-6904
06/27/20212:00 p.m. - 2:30 p.m. Pond Play
Location: Visitor Center
Have you ever wondered what kind of organisms live at the pond? If so, here's your chance to see them up close! A ranger will be leading this event every Saturday, Sunday, and additionally when posted. Bring your hat, sunglasses, and cameras as you meet critters almost never seen before. We depart from the Visitor Center and meet next to the playground area. After the event, head to the Visitor Center and watch as the staff feed the resident fish and turtle. This event is free, just pay the parking fee. Facemasks are required for unvaccinated individuals.
07/03/20219:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m. Kid's Fishing Tournament
Location: Boat Ramp #1
The Friends of Leesylvania is proud to sponsor the Leesylvania Kid's Fishing Tournaments of 2021. This event is open to kids ages 3yrs-15 yrs old and is free to the public, just pay the park admission fee. All fishing gear and bait is provided, but it is recommended to bring your own gear if you own it. The tournaments take place near boat ramp #1, every first Saturday of June, July, August and September. The time of the event is from 9am-11am. Come on out and have fun with the whole family! Facemasks are required for unvaccinated individuals. Don't forget your hat, sunscreen, sunglasses and water!

Mason Neck State Park
7301 High Point Rd., Lorton, VA 22079
Phone: 703-339-2385   Email Address: MasonNeck@dcr.virginia.gov
Web Site: www.dcr.virginia.gov/state-parks/mason-neck
DateEvent
06/27/202111:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. Tree ID 101
Location: Meet in front of the visitor center
Want to know more about those trees you see daily? Join us to learn all about trees and our ecosystems and practice using a dichotomous key and tree characteristics to identify some of the native trees in our area.
06/27/20211:00 p.m. - 2:00 p.m. No Bones About It
Location: Playground
Why does the park have so many bones, and what can we learn from them? Discover how scientists use animal bones and how we can recognize the bones' different features.
06/27/20213:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m. Tiny Dragons
Location: Bay View Trail Boardwalk
Do you want to learn how to identify the different species of dragonflies found at Mason Neck State Park? Join a ranger to find and identify some of these colorful invertebrates.
06/27/20215:00 p.m. - 6:00 p.m. Furs and Skulls
Location: The Playground
Ever wonder what kind of furry creatures call Mason Neck home? View some of our furry friends' animal pelts and discover how their skulls compare to one another as you learn about their habitat.
07/03/202111:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. Wily Coyotes
Location: Playground at Mason Neck State Park
Enjoy learning about how coyotes, Mason Neck s largest predator, live and how they interact with their forest community.
Unvaccinated guests please wear a mask and follow social distancing protocols.
07/03/20211:00 p.m. - 2:00 p.m. Feather Mania
Location: Visitor Center at Mason Neck State Park
Have you ever wondered what it's like to be a bird? Birds have several thousands of feathers, each having a unique size, shape and function. Join in the mania to see if we can identify types of feathers and figure out who they belong to!
Unvaccinated guests please wear a mask and follow social distancing protocols.
07/03/20213:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m. Mud Buggin'
Location: Turtle Pond
Join a ranger as we take dip-nets down to the pond to see what kind of aquatic life we can catch. Plan to get a little wet and muddy! Unvaccinated guests please wear a mask and follow social distancing protocols.
07/03/20215:00 p.m. - 6:00 p.m. No Bones About It
Location: Playground at Mason Neck State Park
Bones are an important part of our body and reveal many secrets. Join us to find the hidden secrets within bones! Unvaccinated guests please wear a mask and follow social distancing protocols.
07/03/20217:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m. Evening Paddling Adventures
Location: Equipment shed next to Visitor Center
Evenings are a wonderful time to explore the park on the water. This year we offer family friendly (but not exclusive) late-day paddles. Led by certified paddle guides, you will paddle through Belmont Bay and into the pristine marsh environment known as Kane's Creek. There you may encounter secretive wildlife such as beaver, turtles, fox, heron, and even our nation's symbol, the Bald Eagle.
Join us for our 2 hour Saturday evening adventures, offered from June-October. The prices are: Individuals - $15 each, for groups (4+) - $9 each. While these are family friendly tours, children under 5 are not allowed in our boats. Children 6-12 must be accompanied by a parent/guardian in the boat, and children 13-17 may paddle alone but must be under supervision of a parent/guardian.
We ask that all visitors arrive 20 minutes prior to start time, park in front of the visitor center, and check in to receive your parking pass. Be sure to bring a face covering, water, sunscreen, bug repellant, and appropriate attire. Pets are not permitted on our boats.
Reservations must be made in advance. To register or inquire about our policies, please call our office line at (703) 339-2385.
07/04/202111:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. Native American Pastimes
Location: Playground
Did you know Mason Neck was once home to Native Americans before the English arrived. Come learn about the Dogue Indians that once inhabited this land and try out there most popular pastimes.
07/04/20211:00 p.m. - 2:00 p.m. Fun with Fungi
Location: Kane's Creek Trail Head
Learn about the types of fungi growing around us and their importance in the ecosystem. Meet at the Kane s Creek Trail.
07/04/20213:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m. Tree ID 101
Location: Front of Visitor Center
Want to know more about those trees you see daily? Join us to learn all about trees and our ecosystems and practice using a dichotomous key and tree characteristics to identify some of the native trees in our area.
07/04/20215:00 p.m. - 6:00 p.m. Eagle Watch
Location: Visitor Center
Eagles love Belmont Bay and may often be seen soaring over the open water. Learn to spot the differences between birds of prey and look for them as they soar across the bay using our long-range scope.
07/05/2021
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07/07/2021
9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. Junior Rangers: Session 1- Creepy Crawlies, Ages 4-6
Location: Visitor Center
There are some animals that everybody loves, but what about the ones that people don't like? Find out the secrets of bugs, skunks, snakes, and more! Join us to learn about what makes them tick, why they are important, and how we can coexist with them.
Junior Rangers: Creepy Crawlies is a three day program, with each day lasting three hours. Snacks will not be provided, but are encouraged. There is a $50.00 charge for the program. Please call the visitor center at (703) 339-2385 for more information and to register.

Natural Bridge State Park
6477 South Lee Highway, Natural Bridge, VA 24578
Phone: 540-291-1326   Email Address: NaturalBridge@dcr.virginia.gov
Web Site: www.dcr.virginia.gov/state-parks/natural-bridge
DateEvent
06/27/2021Special Event  10:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. Art in the Park: Ron Navroski Demonstration
Location: Natural Bridge State Park Pavilion by the Trail Store
Be sure to stop by the Pavilion, where local artists featured in our Artisan Center demonstrate their talents for all visitors to see. Our featured artist, Ron Navroski, is known for his ability to make feathers his canvas. His award-winning paintings are showcased throughout the United States. Stop by and take a look at his magnificent artwork on your way to see the Natural Bridge.
06/27/202110:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Base Camp: Discover the World of Natural Bridge State Park
Location: Basement of the Natural Bridge Visitor Center
How was the Natural Bridge made? Is that a moth or a butterfly? What about where the water goes in our watershed? Look no further than Base Camp. Located on the basement level of the Visitor Center, Base Camp is your chance to explore Natural Bridge State Park before or after hiking Cedar Creek Trail. Meet our staff and ask questions about the park, make a craft or just share your experiences of Natural Bride State Park.
Base Camp will be open during the summer season, Friday, Saturdays, Sundays and Holiday Mondays.
See you at camp.
07/02/202110:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Base Camp: Discover the World of Natural Bridge State Park
Location: Basement of the Natural Bridge Visitor Center
How was the Natural Bridge made? Is that a moth or a butterfly? What about where the water goes in our watershed? Look no further than Base Camp. Located on the basement level of the Visitor Center, Base Camp is your chance to explore Natural Bridge State Park before or after hiking Cedar Creek Trail. Meet our staff and ask questions about the park, make a craft or just share your experiences of Natural Bride State Park.
Base Camp will be open during the summer season, Friday, Saturdays, Sundays and Holiday Mondays.
See you at camp.
07/02/20217:30 p.m. - 9:30 p.m. Community Campfire at Cave Mountain Lake
Location: Cave Mountain Lake
Natural Bridge State Park will be hosting campfire programs at Cave Mountain Lake on the first and third Fridays of the month, beginning June 4, from 7:30 pm to 9:30 pm.
Guests who participate will have to pay the $8 day use fee or buy an annual pass from the United States Forest Service. Those camping at Cave Mountain Lake will not have to pay an extra fee.
Please park near the first large day use parking area. The campfire will be held near here at the community campfire pit. Cave Mountain Lake asks that all day use visitors leave before 10:00 pm.
07/03/202110:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Base Camp: Discover the World of Natural Bridge State Park
Location: Basement of the Natural Bridge Visitor Center
How was the Natural Bridge made? Is that a moth or a butterfly? What about where the water goes in our watershed? Look no further than Base Camp. Located on the basement level of the Visitor Center, Base Camp is your chance to explore Natural Bridge State Park before or after hiking Cedar Creek Trail. Meet our staff and ask questions about the park, make a craft or just share your experiences of Natural Bride State Park.
Base Camp will be open during the summer season, Friday, Saturdays, Sundays and Holiday Mondays.
See you at camp.
07/03/202111:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. Wall Walk
Location: Cedar Creek Trail
From insects to reptiles, flowers to trees, look over the wall with Park Rangers and volunteers to discover what many may miss while walking Cedar Creek Trail. Beginning at the Natural Bridge, rangers will be available to ask questions and point out animals, rock formations, and plants that call Cedar Creek home.
07/03/20213:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m. Critters in the Creek
Location: Low Water Bridge along Cedar Creek Trail
A clean stream is a happy stream, and what better way to gauge a stream's health than finding critters. Meet Park Rangers at Low Water Bridge along Cedar Creek Trail, just past the Monacan exhibit, to help search for macroinvertebrates and other creatures that demonstrate how healthy our ecosystems are.
All participants must wear closed toed shoes to participate and must be prepared to get wet.
07/03/20218:30 p.m. - 10:00 p.m. Owl Prowl
Location: Skyline Trail
From screeches to hoots, visit Natural Bridge State Park to learn more on our nocturnal neighbor the owl. Join us at Skyline Trailhead as we discuss the story of owls, listen to different owl calls, and hike in the trail to Jefferson Point to see if we can call in the local screech owls. All participants will need closed toed shoes, a water source, and insect repellent.
07/04/20218:00 a.m. - 10:00 a.m. Morning Hike-Blue Ridge Trail
Location: Blue Ridge Trailhead Parking Lot
Grab your hiking boots and morning coffee as Natural Bridge State Park Rangers and volunteers hike the Blue Ridge Trail, one of many trail systems located at Natural Bridge State Park. Explore the changing landscape as we go from meadows to forests as we discover different plants, animals, and the importance of these areas for wildlife conservation.
Participants will need to wear closed toed shoes. Water, sunscreen, and bug spray are highly recommended.
07/04/202110:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Base Camp: Discover the World of Natural Bridge State Park
Location: Basement of the Natural Bridge Visitor Center
How was the Natural Bridge made? Is that a moth or a butterfly? What about where the water goes in our watershed? Look no further than Base Camp. Located on the basement level of the Visitor Center, Base Camp is your chance to explore Natural Bridge State Park before or after hiking Cedar Creek Trail. Meet our staff and ask questions about the park, make a craft or just share your experiences of Natural Bride State Park.
Base Camp will be open during the summer season, Friday, Saturdays, Sundays and Holiday Mondays.
See you at camp.
07/04/202111:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. Wall Walk
Location: Cedar Creek Trail
From insects to reptiles, flowers to trees, look over the wall with Park Rangers and volunteers to discover what many may miss while walking Cedar Creek Trail. Beginning at the Natural Bridge, rangers will be available to ask questions and point out animals, rock formations, and plants that call Cedar Creek home.
07/04/20213:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m. Critters in the Creek
Location: Low Water Bridge along Cedar Creek Trail
A clean stream is a happy stream, and what better way to gauge a stream's health than finding critters. Meet Park Rangers at Low Water Bridge along Cedar Creek Trail, just past the Monacan exhibit, to help search for macroinvertebrates and other creatures that demonstrate how healthy our ecosystems are.
All participants must wear closed toed shoes to participate and must be prepared to get wet.
07/05/202110:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Base Camp: Discover the World of Natural Bridge State Park
Location: Basement of the Natural Bridge Visitor Center
How was the Natural Bridge made? Is that a moth or a butterfly? What about where the water goes in our watershed? Look no further than Base Camp. Located on the basement level of the Visitor Center, Base Camp is your chance to explore Natural Bridge State Park before or after hiking Cedar Creek Trail. Meet our staff and ask questions about the park, make a craft or just share your experiences of Natural Bride State Park.
Base Camp will be open during the summer season, Friday, Saturdays, Sundays and Holiday Mondays.
See you at camp.
07/05/202111:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. Wall Walk
Location: Cedar Creek Trail
From insects to reptiles, flowers to trees, look over the wall with Park Rangers and volunteers to discover what many may miss while walking Cedar Creek Trail. Beginning at the Natural Bridge, rangers will be available to ask questions and point out animals, rock formations, and plants that call Cedar Creek home.
07/05/20212:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m. Critters in the Creek
Location: Low Water Bridge along Cedar Creek Trail
A clean stream is a happy stream, and what better way to gauge a stream's health than finding critters. Meet Park Rangers at Low Water Bridge along Cedar Creek Trail, just past the Monacan exhibit, to help search for macroinvertebrates and other creatures that demonstrate how healthy our ecosystems are.
All participants must wear closed toed shoes to participate and must be prepared to get wet.

Natural Tunnel State Park
1420 Natural Tunnel Pkwy., Duffield, VA 24244
Phone: 276-940-2674   Email Address: naturaltunnel@dcr.virginia.gov
Web Site: www.dcr.virginia.gov/state-parks/natural-tunnel
DateEvent
06/27/202110:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m. Stock Creek Passage
Location: Stock Creek Recreation Area
Over 200 years ago, early adventurers like Daniel Boone walked these same hills and valleys we see today. Walking in their footsteps makes their journey come alive as you hike into the tunnel. View the tunnel from the inside out. This strenuous walk will include crossing boulders and rocks, just like the early adventurers. Once inside the tunnel you will hear stories about how the tunnel was formed and see a fault line. Wading attire, a flashlight and a wading staff are highly recommended.
*Pre-registration is required for all programs in order to maintain manageable group sizes and ensure social distancing. To reserve your spot for a program, contact the park office at 276-940-2674. Cost is $5 per person. This program is open to anyone age 8 and up. For your comfort and safety appropriate footwear is required, no flip-flops, crocs, or sandals. No pets allowed.
06/27/20211:00 p.m. - 2:00 p.m. Roaming Ranger
Location: Various locations
Keep your eyes peeled for a roaming ranger around the park. Guess what the ranger has and learn a few facts about the park. This is also a good time to ask any questions you may have.
06/27/20212:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m. The Wilderness Road Blockhouse
Location: The Wilderness Road Blockhouse
Tour a replica of the Anderson Blockhouse as members of the Daniel Boone Wilderness Trail Association provide information about the history of the building and area. Discover who John Anderson was and why his home was important to the frontier.
*Masks are required when inside the Blockhouse.*
06/27/20212:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m. Pickin' in the Park: Music in the Mountains
Location: Amphitheater
Join us for a Sunday afternoon filled with music and fun. This series is hosted by the Cultural Arts Council and each program features a different headliner as well as an open mic session. Performers of all skill levels are welcome to join in the fun. The program is sponsored by Hob Nob Drive-In and the Mountain Empire Community College. Admission is free. Parking is $5 per vehicle.
06/28/202110:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m. Tunnel Talk
Location: Visitor Center
Enjoy a guided walk with a park interpreter down to the Natural Tunnel. As you enjoy the awe-inspiring views of the mouth of the tunnel, discover why this geologic phenomena is so unique. This will be a 1/2 mile hike roundtrip that requires climbing sets of stairs on the way back up the trail. Wear sturdy shoes, bring water, snacks, and a camera.
06/28/20211:00 p.m. - 2:00 p.m. Stock Creek Passage
Location: Stock Creek Recreation Area
Over 200 years ago, early adventurers like Daniel Boone walked these same hills and valleys we see today. Walking in their footsteps makes their journey come alive as you hike into the tunnel. View the tunnel from the inside out. This strenuous walk will include crossing boulders and rocks, just like the early adventurers. Once inside the tunnel you will hear stories about how the tunnel was formed and see a fault line. Wading attire, a flashlight and a wading staff are highly recommended.
*Pre-registration is required for all programs in order to maintain manageable group sizes and ensure social distancing. To reserve your spot for a program, contact the park office at 276-940-2674. Cost is $5 per person. This program is open to anyone age 8 and up. For your comfort and safety appropriate footwear is required, no flip-flops, crocs, or sandals. No pets allowed.
06/29/202111:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. Secret Life of Trees
Location: Visitor Center
Learn about the various trees at Natural Tunnel and decorate your very own tree cookie to take home. * Pre-registration required by calling 276-940-2674. Free
06/29/20211:00 p.m. - 2:30 p.m. Stock Creek Passage
Location: Stock Creek Recreation Area
Over 200 years ago, early adventurers like Daniel Boone walked these same hills and valleys we see today. Walking in their footsteps makes their journey come alive as you hike into the tunnel. View the tunnel from the inside out. This strenuous walk will include crossing boulders and rocks, just like the early adventurers. Once inside the tunnel you will hear stories about how the tunnel was formed and see a fault line. Wading attire, a flashlight and a wading staff are highly recommended.
*Pre-registration is required for all programs in order to maintain manageable group sizes and ensure social distancing. To reserve your spot for a program, contact the park office at 276-940-2674. Cost is $5 per person. This program is open to anyone age 8 and up. For your comfort and safety appropriate footwear is required, no flip-flops, crocs, or sandals. No pets allowed.
06/30/202110:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m. Tunnel Talk
Location: Visitor Center
Enjoy a guided walk with a park interpreter down to the Natural Tunnel. As you enjoy the awe-inspiring views of the mouth of the tunnel, discover why this geologic phenomena is so unique. This will be a 1/2 mile hike roundtrip that requires climbing sets of stairs on the way back up the trail. Wear sturdy shoes, bring water, snacks, and a camera.
06/30/20211:00 p.m. - 2:00 p.m. Critter Crawl
Location: Stock Creek Recreation Center
What's under that rock? We'll search the creek for underwater creatures and explain their roles in the environment. Wear closed-toed shoes and expect to get wet. . Free
07/01/202110:00 a.m. - 11:30 a.m. Stock Creek Passage
Location: Stock Creek Recreation Area
Over 200 years ago, early adventurers like Daniel Boone walked these same hills and valleys we see today. Walking in their footsteps makes their journey come alive as you hike into the tunnel. View the tunnel from the inside out. This strenuous walk will include crossing boulders and rocks, just like the early adventurers. Once inside the tunnel you will hear stories about how the tunnel was formed and see a fault line. Wading attire, a flashlight and a wading staff are highly recommended.
*Pre-registration is required for all programs in order to maintain manageable group sizes and ensure social distancing. To reserve your spot for a program, contact the park office at 276-940-2674. Cost is $5 per person. This program is open to anyone age 8 and up. For your comfort and safety appropriate footwear is required, no flip-flops, crocs, or sandals. No pets allowed.
07/01/20211:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m. Wild Cave Tour: Bolling Cave
Location: Stock Creek Recreation Area
Get down and dirty with this two hour wild cave tour. Explore the underground world of caves in their true form. Crawl through crevasses and waddle through tunnels. View the archeology room, soda straws, and columns. There are no special effects/lights or sidewalks in the caves. Guests will be given a helmet, with a LED light on it, along with gloves and knee pads. Expect to get dirty during exploration. To register or for more information, call (276) 940-2674. Pre-registration required. This program is open to anyone age 8 and up. For your comfort and safety appropriate pants and close toe shoes required. Guest must use park gear. Cost is $15 per person or $12 per person for groups of 4 or more.
07/01/20213:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m. Roaming Ranger
Location: Various locations
Keep your eyes peeled for a roaming ranger around the park. Guess what the ranger has and learn a few facts about the park. This is also a good time to ask any questions you may have.
07/01/20219:00 p.m. - 10:00 p.m. Nature's Light Show
Location: Blockhouse
Enjoy a relaxing summer evening to view Nature's very own light show put on by the fireflies. Feel free to bring along a chair or blanket. Meet at the Blockhouse. Free
07/02/202110:00 a.m. - 11:30 a.m. Stock Creek Passage
Location: Stock Creek Recreation Area
Over 200 years ago, early adventurers like Daniel Boone walked these same hills and valleys we see today. Walking in their footsteps makes their journey come alive as you hike into the tunnel. View the tunnel from the inside out. This strenuous walk will include crossing boulders and rocks, just like the early adventurers. Once inside the tunnel you will hear stories about how the tunnel was formed and see a fault line. Wading attire, a flashlight and a wading staff are highly recommended.
*Pre-registration is required for all programs in order to maintain manageable group sizes and ensure social distancing. To reserve your spot for a program, contact the park office at 276-940-2674. Cost is $5 per person. This program is open to anyone age 8 and up. For your comfort and safety appropriate footwear is required, no flip-flops, crocs, or sandals. No pets allowed.
07/02/20211:00 p.m. - 2:00 p.m. Critter Crawl
Location: Stock Creek Recreation Center
What's under that rock? We'll search the creek for underwater creatures and explain their roles in the environment. Wear closed-toed shoes and expect to get wet.
07/02/20218:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m. Welcome Campfire
Location: Campground fire ring adjacent to the campground playground
Learn how to build a campfire and then enjoy time sharing stories by the glow of the fire. Meet at the campground fire ring adjacent to the campground playground. Free
07/03/202110:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m. Skills from the Frontier: Blackpowder Demonstration
Location: Daniel Boone Wilderness Trail Interpretive Center
Discover common 18th century skills or trades that were commonly done on the frontier and aided in survival. All programs will start at 10 a.m. at the demonstration area.
May 22 - Pioneer Candle Making
Learn and observe the process of candle making and its' importance to pioneers living on the frontier during the 18th century.
June 12 - The Original Iron Chef
The kitchen of the 18th century looks vastly different from present day. The Dutch Oven was a vital and versatile tool in the "frontier kitchen". Learn about the process of cocking with a Dutch Oven as well as a few recipes often made on the frontier.
July 3 - Blackpowder Demonstration
Learn about flintlocks of the 18th century and their vital role on the frontier. Afterwards, you'll get the opportunity to watch a firing demo.
Aug. 7 - Forage for your Cordage
During this hands-on program, you'll have the opportunity to gather plant material and make your own cordage from start to finish.
The Daniel Boone Wilderness Trail Interpretive Center operates as a satellite park of Natural Tunnel State Park and is located at 371 Technology Trail Lane in Duffield, Virginia.
For questions or additional information, call the interpretive center at 276-431-0104.
07/03/20211:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m. Monthly Museum Tours
Location: Daniel Boone Wilderness Trail Interpretive Center
Begin your journey along the Wilderness Road towards Cumberland Gap as a volunteer takes you on a guided tour of the museum. The tours will be the first Saturday of the month from 1 p.m. - 3 p.m.
*Masks are required inside this facility*
Visit the Wilderness Road Blockhouse at Natural Tunnel State Park and earn a 10% discount at the gift shop. Admission is free.
The Daniel Boone Wilderness Trail Interpretive Center operates as a satellite park of Natural Tunnel State Park and is located at 371 Technology Trail Lane in Duffield, Virginia.
For questions or additional information, call the interpretive center at 276-431-0104.
07/03/20211:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m. Wild Cave Tour: Bolling Cave
Location: Stock Creek Recreation Area
Get down and dirty with this two hour wild cave tour. Explore the underground world of caves in their true form. Crawl through crevasses and waddle through tunnels. View the archeology room, soda straws, and columns. There are no special effects/lights or sidewalks in the caves. Guests will be given a helmet, with a LED light on it, along with gloves and knee pads. Expect to get dirty during exploration. To register or for more information, call (276) 940-2674. Pre-registration required. This program is open to anyone age 8 and up. For your comfort and safety appropriate pants and close toe shoes required. Guest must use park gear. Cost is $15 per person or $12 per person for groups of 4 or more.
07/03/20212:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m. The Wilderness Road Blockhouse
Location: The Wilderness Road Blockhouse
Tour a replica of the Anderson Blockhouse as members of the Daniel Boone Wilderness Trail Association provide information about the history of the building and area. Discover who John Anderson was and why his home was important to the frontier.
*Masks are required when inside the Blockhouse.*
07/03/20218:45 p.m. - 10:00 p.m. Touring the Galaxy
Location: The Gazebo
Join the park's astronomy volunteers as they show you the universe. View the stars, from the gazebo, as they begin to illuminate in the night sky. Discover what constellations are visible and the stories behind them. Only flashlights with a red filter are permitted to help preserve night vision.
07/04/202110:00 a.m. - 11:30 a.m. Stock Creek Passage
Location: Stock Creek Recreation Area
Over 200 years ago, early adventurers like Daniel Boone walked these same hills and valleys we see today. Walking in their footsteps makes their journey come alive as you hike into the tunnel. View the tunnel from the inside out. This strenuous walk will include crossing boulders and rocks, just like the early adventurers. Once inside the tunnel you will hear stories about how the tunnel was formed and see a fault line. Wading attire, a flashlight and a wading staff are highly recommended.
*Pre-registration is required for all programs in order to maintain manageable group sizes and ensure social distancing. To reserve your spot for a program, contact the park office at 276-940-2674. Cost is $5 per person. This program is open to anyone age 8 and up. For your comfort and safety appropriate footwear is required, no flip-flops, crocs, or sandals. No pets allowed.
07/04/20211:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m. Wild Cave Tour: Bolling Cave
Location: Stock Creek Recreation Area
Get down and dirty with this two hour wild cave tour. Explore the underground world of caves in their true form. Crawl through crevasses and waddle through tunnels. View the archeology room, soda straws, and columns. There are no special effects/lights or sidewalks in the caves. Guests will be given a helmet, with a LED light on it, along with gloves and knee pads. Expect to get dirty during exploration. To register or for more information, call (276) 940-2674. Pre-registration required. This program is open to anyone age 8 and up. For your comfort and safety appropriate pants and close toe shoes required. Guest must use park gear. Cost is $15 per person or $12 per person for groups of 4 or more.
07/04/20212:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m. The Wilderness Road Blockhouse
Location: The Wilderness Road Blockhouse
Tour a replica of the Anderson Blockhouse as members of the Daniel Boone Wilderness Trail Association provide information about the history of the building and area. Discover who John Anderson was and why his home was important to the frontier.
*Masks are required when inside the Blockhouse.*
07/04/20213:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m. Roaming Ranger
Location: Various locations
Keep your eyes peeled for a roaming ranger around the park. Guess what the ranger has and learn a few facts about the park. This is also a good time to ask any questions you may have.
05/01/2021
     To       
07/31/2021
8:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. Request a Ranger
Location: Various Locations Throughout the Park
This program gives families and small groups a chance to engage in activities not otherwise scheduled during their visit to the park.
Contact Rachel Blevins at 276-940-1643 for program information and to schedule a program. (This program is based on available staffing - requested days or times are not guaranteed and must be scheduled one day in advanced). Have an interest but don't see it below? Ask the ranger.
Program Examples and Options:

Critter Crawl: Search the creek for macroinvertebrates to help determine water quality.
Secret Life of Trees: Discover the various tree species at the park and decorate a tree cookie to take home.
A Gawk in the Woods: Take a leisurely walk through the woods to discover all of the colors, shapes, and designs found in nature.
Tunnel Talk: Enjoy a guided walk down to the tunnel and learn about the history of the area
Tour of the Wilderness Road Blockhouse: A personalized tour of the Blockhouse area as well as a look inside the Blockhouse.
Naturalist Niche: Enjoy a guided hike with a Ranger on the trail of your choice. Discover the trees, wildlife, and other unique features you might normally miss while hiking.
02/01/2021
     To       
10/01/2021
Visitor Center 2.0 Volunteer Opportunity
Location: Visitor Center
Natural Tunnel State Park is planning to remodel the visitor center this year and we're looking for local talent to help assist with this project. The remodeling project will consist of two new exhibits that will enhance the visitor's experience. Have a knack for creative design? Building and woodworking? Researching and telling the stories of our region? Or just willing to lend a helping hand?
Contact Rachel Blevins by email (rachel.blevins@dcr.virginia.gov) or phone (276-940-1643) for more information on how to get involved.
04/03/2021
     To       
10/31/2021
10:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. Self-Guided Museum Tour
Location: Daniel Boone Wilderness Trail Interpretive Center
Stop by the Daniel Boone Wilderness Trail Interpretive Center at 371 Technology Trail Lane in Duffield, VA and take part in a self-guided tour of the museum. Follow the footsteps of Daniel Boone and learn all about life on the frontier and the role the region played in the early steps of Westward Expansion. The Interpretive Center is open on weekends from 10 a.m. - 6 p.m. the month of April and Friday through Monday from 10 a.m. - 6 p.m. May through October.
04/03/2021
     To       
10/31/2021
10:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. Museum Activity Pack
Location: Daniel Boone Wilderness Trail Interpretive Center
Stop by the Daniel Boone Wilderness Trail Interpretive Center at 371 Technology Trail Lane in Duffield, VA and pick up one of our activity packs. Learn all about life on the frontier while having fun! The Interpretive Center will be open on weekends from 10 a.m. - 6 p.m. the month of April and Friday through Monday from 10 a.m. - 6 p.m. May through October.
01/01/2021
     To       
12/31/2021
Virtual Visit: Exploration Station
Location: Cove Ridge Foundation Website
Natural Tunnel's Exploration Station provides interactive and hands-on learning opportunities for all ages and abilities. Discover more about the natural and historical resources of our region through self-guided opportunities or topics below. Each topic is paired with activities, lesson plans, and opportunities to continue your exploration here at Natural Tunnel State Park or in your very own backyard.
Visit the Exploration Station here: https://coveridge.com/exploration-station
01/01/2021
     To       
01/01/2022
Self-Guided Tour of the Tunnel
Location: Visitor Center
Enjoy a self-guided tour during your hike down to see the Natural Tunnel. You'll learn about the formation of the tunnel as well as the history of the railroad and surrounding area that is now Natural Tunnel State Park.
Click the link to download your very own copy before you visit or pick up a copy at the Visitor Center or main office.
Downloadable Copy: https://www.dcr.virginia.gov/state-parks/document/nt-tunnel-tour-brochure.pdf
01/01/2021
     To       
01/01/2022
8:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. Self-Guided Tour of the Wilderness Road Blockhouse
Location: Wilderness Road Blockhouse
As you explore the Wilderness Road Blockhouse and the surrounding area, discover what makes this building so unique as well as the what was commonly used on the frontier for survival during the 18th Century. Copies of the Wilderness Road Blockhouse Tour are available at the Visitor Center and park office.
Click the link to download your very own copy before you visit or pick up a copy at the Visitor Center or main office.
Downloadable Copy: https://www.dcr.virginia.gov/state-parks/document/nt-blockhouse-brochure.pdf
01/01/2021
     To       
01/01/2022
8:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. Common Trees of Southwest Virginia
Location: Visitor Center
Stop by the Visitor Center and pick up a copy of a self-guided brochure on the 22 Trees of Virginia Tour. This 1-mile hike will take you on an adventure to awe-inspiring overlooks while identifying some of the common trees you may find in your backyard.

New River Trail State Park
116 Orphanage Dr., Max Meadows, VA 24360
Phone: 276-699-6778   Email Address: NewRiverTrail@dcr.virginia.gov
Web Site: www.dcr.virginia.gov/state-parks/new-river-trail
DateEvent
06/12/2021
     To       
09/06/2021
10:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Shot Tower Tours
Location: Shot Tower Historical State Park
Shot Tower tours available only on Saturday and Sunday starting June 12, 2021 through September 6, 2021.Take a step back in time, hear the history of the people who built, worked and designed (drop-shot method) of manufacturing shot in the early frontier. Ascend to the top experience history and see an incredible mountain view. Due to COVID-19 we ask that small groups or single families tour the tower at one time, for more information please contact the park office. No admission fee for tours, however, parking fee of $7.00 per vehicle does apply.
06/12/2021
     To       
09/06/2021
1:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m. Discovery Days
Location: Foster Falls-Discovery Center
Discovery Center at Foster Falls will be open only on Saturday and Sunday starting June 12, 2021 through September 06, 2021.Discover what's inside. Our park is filled with stories from the past, and animal and plant life. Stop by our Discovery Center and experience some of what call our park home. No admission fee, however, parking fee of $7.00 does apply.

Occoneechee State Park
1192 Occoneechee Park Rd., Clarksville, VA 23927
Phone: 434-374-2210   Email Address: Occoneechee@dcr.virginia.gov
Web Site: www.dcr.virginia.gov/state-parks/occoneechee
DateEvent
06/27/20219:30 a.m. - 11:00 a.m. Nature Journaling
Location: Panhandle Trail Head Picnic Area
Join Park Staff and Local Naturalists for a fun morning outdoors. Nature Journaling is a great way to enhance your outdoor experiences and catalog memories along the way. Participants will take a short hike and do some ink sketching along the trail and then come back to the trail head for a lesson in water color painting your sketches to make them come to life. All materials will be provided. There is no fee to participate but the $7 parking fee still applies. All participants should wear close-toed shoes and bring water.
07/07/202110:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. Occoneechee Nature Journaling Club Meeting
Location: Visitor's Center
Join members of The Southern Piedmont Virginia Master Naturalist group for a fun morning of exploring nature through artistic expression. Nature Journaling is a great way to catalog your experiences and create lasting memories with your family. The Occoneechee Nature Participants should bring their own journaling supplies, dress for the weather, and bring water. There is no fee to participate but the $7 dollar parking fee still applies.

Pocahontas State Park
10301 State Park Rd., Chesterfield, VA 23832
Phone: 804-796-4255   Email Address: Pocahontas@dcr.virginia.gov
Web Site: www.dcr.virginia.gov/state-parks/pocahontas
DateEvent
06/27/20218:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m. Sundays on Swift Creek
Location: Swift Creek Boat Launch
Rise and shine and join for a deep dive into the history of Swift Creek Lake.
The trip includes a brief overview of canoeing safety and techniques, and detailed, on-the-water interpretations of natural and cultural features. All equipment will be provided and program is suitable for ages 6 and up.
Canoes are limited and attendees must register in advance at the park office or by calling 804-796-4255. $10 per person .
Fees may be paid upon registration, or at start of program and must be in cash or check (credit cards accepted at park office only).
Please bring plenty of water, snacks and Sunscreen, wear close-toed shoes and clothes you don't mind getting dirty and/or wet. Arrive 15 minutes early.
Event is subject to cancellation due to inclement weather
06/27/20212:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m. Paper from Paper
Location: Visitor Center
Did you know you can make paper from paper? Join the rangers to learn how to reuse bits of scrap paper to make homemade paper-perfect for journals, invitations, and even seed bombs. Great for the whole family and all materials are provided. Prepare to get a bit messy.
Registration is required. Please call 804-796-4472 or email Rebecca.whalen@dcr.virginia.gov to register.
Know Before You Go: Before your visit, find the most up to date health and safety information at https://www.dcr.virginia.gov/state-parks/besafe
06/29/202110:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m. Big Poplar Trail Hike
Location: Visitor Center
Stand in the cool shade as you see one of the most "poplar" trees in the park. Big Poplar leads you along big trees, steep overlooks and Swift Creek. The trail is hard packed earth with some challenging elevation changes, be sure to wear sturdy shoes and bring water/snacks.
While kid friendly, the use of strollers may be difficult. Friendly dogs are welcome on a leash.
Moderate .7 mile loop from Visitor Center.
Registration is required.
Please call 804-796-4472 or email Rebecca.whalen@dcr.virginia.gov to register.
Know Before You Go: Before your visit, find the most up to date health and safety information at https://www.dcr.virginia.gov/state-parks/besafe
Suitable for all ages.
06/29/202112:00 p.m. - 1:00 p.m. Tree Cookies
Location: Visitor Center
They're round and they're full of fiber but unless you're a termite, you can't eat these tree cookies. Learn to read the life of a tree by examining tree cookies with our Rangers.
Registration is required. Please call 804-796-4472 or email Rebecca.whalen@dcr.virginia.gov to register.
Know Before You Go: Before your visit, find the most up to date health and safety information at https://www.dcr.virginia.gov/state-parks/besafe
06/29/20212:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m. Looking at Leaves
Location: Visitor Center
Tree species can be identified by looking at several different features: bark, twigs, flowers, fruit, and seeds. Even the overall shape of a tree can give us clues to the tree's identity. Join us to take a look at leaves and learn how to identify common trees.
This program will include an unbe-leaf-able craft and meets Virginia Standards of Learning.
Suitable for all ages and abilities.
Registration is required. Please call 804-796-4472 or email Rebecca.whalen@dcr.virginia.gov to register.
Know Before You Go: Before your visit, find the most up to date health and safety information at https://www.dcr.virginia.gov/state-parks/besafe
06/30/20219:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. You Too Can Canoe
Location: Swift Creek Boat Launch
Yes, you too can canoe. Canoes are stable and easy to control, despite what you might have heard.
The trip includes a brief overview of canoeing safety and techniques, and detailed, on-the-water interpretations of natural and cultural features. All equipment will be provided and program is suitable for ages 6 and up.
Boats are limited and attendees must register in advance at the park office or by calling 804-796-4255. $10 per person .
Fees may be paid upon registration, or at start of program and must be in cash or check (credit cards accepted at park office only).
Please bring plenty of water, snacks and sunscreen, wear close-toed shoes and clothes you don't mind getting dirty and/or wet. Arrive 15 minutes early.
Event is subject to cancellation due to inclement weather
06/30/202112:00 p.m. - 1:00 p.m. The Incredible Journey
Location: Visitor Center
Walk through the water cycle as you transform into a water molecule in this aqueous game. Suitable for all ages.
Registration is required
. Please call 804-796-4472 or email Rebecca.whalen@dcr.virginia.gov to register.
Know Before You Go: Before your visit, find the most up to date health and safety information at https://www.dcr.virginia.gov/state-parks/besafe
06/30/20212:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m. Creek Crawl
Location: Playground by Aquatic Complex
Get your feet wet and explore life in the creek. After a easy half mile stroll, we will search under rocks for aquatic life and use the creek as a laboratory to determine the health of our waterways.
Suitable for all ages. Be prepared to get wet.
Registration is required.
Please call 804-796-4472 or email Rebecca.whalen@dcr.virginia.gov to register.
Know Before You Go: Before your visit, find the most up to date health and safety information at https://www.dcr.virginia.gov/state-parks/besafe
Suitable for all ages.
07/01/202110:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m. Caterpillar Club
Location: Playground by Aquatic Complex
Just as caterpillars grow and change, our Caterpillar Club programs are designed to help your little one grow and change.
Each week, we will have you and your child(ren) exploring our natural world through a variety of seasonally appropriate, hands on activities that will foster children's inborn sense of wonder and curiosity.
These experiences are gauged towards early childhood (3-5 years old) but of course, all family members are welcome and encouraged to participate.
Interested, but can't make it? Let us know and we can send out virtual activities.
July 1- Clouds
July 8-Snakes
July 15-Toads
July 22-Moths
July 29- Fish
Every program supports Virginia's Blocks for Early Learning

Registration is required by 4 pm the Wednesday before.
Please call 804-796-4472 or email Rebecca.whalen@dcr.virginia.gov to register for the weekly activity email.
Know Before You Go: Before your visit, find the most up to date health and safety information at https://www.dcr.virginia.gov/state-parks/besafe
07/01/202112:00 p.m. - 1:00 p.m. Throwback Thursday-Splatter Printing
Location: CCC Museum
Journey back in time to 1939 as we recreate a popular craft that was offered when Pocahontas State Park was known as the Swift Creek Recreational Demonstration Area.
Learn an easy technique to create a nature inspired masterpiece. Suitable for all ages.
Programs are designed to compliment Virginia Standards of Learning.
Registration is required.
Please call 804-796-4472 or email Rebecca.whalen@dcr.virginia.gov to register.
Know Before You Go: Before your visit, find the most up to date health and safety information at https://www.dcr.virginia.gov/state-parks/besafe
07/01/20212:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m. Inventing an Insect
Location: Visitor Center
Take a look at the fascinating lives of insects and let your creative juices flow. We'll observe some of our six legged friends, discuss their importance and roles in the ecosystem and design some insects of our own. Suitable for all ages and designed to complement the Virginia Standards of Learning.
Registration is required
.
Please call 804-796-4472 or email Rebecca.whalen@dcr.virginia.gov to register.
Know Before You Go: Before your visit, find the most up to date health and safety information at https://www.dcr.virginia.gov/state-parks/besafe
07/01/20214:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m. Warts and Toads
Location: Camp Store
Do toads really give you warts? Does moss only grow on the north side of trees? Investigate with a ranger to find the answers to these questions and more.
Registration is required; call 804-796-4472 or email Rebecca.whalen@dcr.virginia.gov to register.
07/01/20216:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m. Creature Feature
Location: Camp Store
Turn on your night vision and come to the dark side.
Each week the rangers will focus on a different animals that inhabit Pocahontas State Park and will incorporate crafts, experiments, and hikes to help you understand more about our creatures of the night. Activities are geared towards all ages and abilities.
Programs are designed to complement Virginia Standards of Learning.
Registration is required.
Please call 804-796-4472 or email Rebecca.whalen@dcr.virginia.gov to register and to see what creature will be featured.
Know Before You Go: Before your visit, find the most up to date health and safety information at https://www.dcr.virginia.gov/state-parks/besafe
07/02/202110:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m. Fishing FUNdamentals
Location: Swift Creek Lake Boat Launch
Let us teach you all the basics you'll need to know to get yourself started with one of our most popular outdoor activities, from tying on your hook and tackle to casting your line. Then, we'll try our luck in the lake. We'll bring the rods, reels, and bait, and you bring the smiles.
Water, sunscreen, hat, sunglasses, and bug spray recommended.
A license is required to fish in Virginia unless you are 16 or older. Licenses are available for purchase online ( https://dwr.virginia.gov/licenses ) and in most stores that sell fishing gear. Park guests with no license are welcome to attend, but will not be able to fish.
Registration is required.
Please call 804-796-4472 or email Rebecca.whalen@dcr.virginia.gov to register.
Know Before You Go: Before your visit, find the most up to date health and safety information at https://www.dcr.virginia.gov/state-parks/besafe
07/02/202112:00 p.m. - 1:00 p.m. Virginia Indians-Fishing Tools
Location: Swift Creek Boat Launch
Hooks, spears, nets, and weirs were all used by Virginia Indians to harvest fish. Drop by the Interpretive tent by the boat launch to compare and contrast fishing tools and try your hand at making a fishing net.
Reservations required: Email Rebecca.whalen@dcr.virginia.gov or call 804-796-4472
07/02/20212:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m. Pine Paintings
Location: Visitor Center
Paint pretty pictures with prickly pines (say that 5 times fast) as you learn how Mother Nature can both inspire and help you paint your next masterpiece. All materials are provided.
Suitable for all ages.
Please call 804-796-4472 or email Rebecca.whalen@dcr.virginia.gov to register.

Know Before You Go:
Before your visit, find the most up to date health and safety information at https://www.dcr.virginia.gov/state-parks/besafe
07/02/20214:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m. Looking at Leaves
Location: Visitor Center
Tree species can be identified by looking at several different features: bark, twigs, flowers, fruit, and seeds. Even the overall shape of a tree can give us clues to the tree's identity. Join us to take a look at leaves and learn how to identify common trees.
This program will include an unbe-leaf-able craft and meets Virginia Standards of Learning.
Suitable for all ages and abilities.
Registration is required. Please call 804-796-4472 or email Rebecca.whalen@dcr.virginia.gov to register.
Know Before You Go: Before your visit, find the most up to date health and safety information at https://www.dcr.virginia.gov/state-parks/besafe
07/02/20216:30 p.m. - 7:30 p.m. Backyard Bass
Location: Camp Store
Enjoy all of the fun of fishing with none of the mess. Backyard Bass is great game that helps you develop the fundamental fishing skill of casting. The only downside is that the plastic fish in the grass, we'll be catching, are not as tasty as the real thing.
This program serves as an excellent introduction to some fundamentals of fishing, and will also provide an amusing challenge to experienced anglers. All ages welcome.
Registration is required. Please call 804-796-4472 or email Rebecca.whalen@dcr.virginia.gov to register.
Know Before You Go: Before your visit, find the most up to date health and safety information at https://www.dcr.virginia.gov/state-parks/besafe
07/02/20218:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m. Night Hike
Location: Camp Store
Adventures don't stop just because the sun goes down, so join us to hike a portion of Powhatan trail where the whole family can take part in sensory activities that explore the adaptations of nocturnal animals while learning a few fun facts about the park and the night sky.
Please wear sturdy shoes. Suitable for all ages, and trails are somewhat stroller friendly. Flashlight use is allowed, but discouraged. Hike is approximately 1 mile long.
If you think the park is busy during the day, you should check out our night life.
Reservations Required: email Rebecca.whalen@dcr.virginia.gov or call 804-796-4472
07/03/202110:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m. Archery
Location: CCC Field
Join our USA Archery certified instructors who will teach the basics of archery safety and technique on recurve and compound bows. Build upon the basics with fun games designed to sharpen shooting skills.Family groups can register for a target, with a maximum of four people per target. There is a maximum of twelve people allowed per session. Participants will not share equipment with any other participants who are not in their family or group. Minimum age to participate is 8 years
The fee is $6.00 per participant. Attendees must register in advance at the park office. Call 804-796-4255 for reservations.
The shooting area will be defined, and those not registered will not be allowed to enter the shooting area. Face masks are recommended. There are no restroom facilities at the Archery Range. Bring water, snacks, sunscreen, and chairs/blankets to sit on.
07/03/202112:00 p.m. - 1:00 p.m. Creek Crawl
Location: Playground by Aquatic Complex
Get your feet wet and explore life in the creek. After a easy half mile stroll, we will search under rocks for aquatic life and use the creek as a laboratory to determine the health of our waterways.
Suitable for all ages. Be prepared to get wet.
Registration is required.
Please call 804-796-4472 or email Rebecca.whalen@dcr.virginia.gov to register.
Know Before You Go: Before your visit, find the most up to date health and safety information at https://www.dcr.virginia.gov/state-parks/besafe
Suitable for all ages.
07/03/20212:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m. Radical Reptiles
Location: Visitor Center
Have you ever wondered how snakes can swallow something as big as their own heads? Maybe you've wondered what you'd eat for breakfast if you were a box turtle. Well, here is your chance for an educational and entertaining look at our educational animal's feeding behaviors and taste preferences.
Suitable for all ages and designed to complement the Virginia Standards of Learning.
Registration is required. Please call 804-796-4472 or email Rebecca.whalen@dcr.virginia.gov to register.
Know Before You Go: Before your visit, find the most up to date health and safety information at http://dcr.virginia.gov/state-parks/besafe
07/03/20214:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m. Nature Art in the Park-Bright Flight: Making A Bird Mobile
Location: Visitor Center
Take flight with several of Virginia's wild birds as we build a mobile. Find your voice as you write down your thoughts and wishes each bird will carry up to the sky.
All materials are provided. Suitable for all ages.
Please register by email: Rebecca.whalen@dcr.virginia.gov or phone: 804-796-4472
07/03/20216:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m. Fun Fires
Location: Camp Store
Can you start fire with a steel wool? How about a gum wrapper, soda can, or plastic bag? Put your skills to the test while learning more about fire science.
All programs complement the Virginia Standards of Learning and are suitable for all ages.
Registration is required.
Please call 804-796-4472 or email Rebecca.whalen@dcr.virginia.gov to register.
Know Before You Go: Before your visit, find the most up to date health and safety information at https://www.dcr.virginia.gov/state-parks/besafe
07/03/20218:00 p.m. - 9:30 p.m. Warm Welcome
Location: Campfire Ring near Camp Store
Join a Ranger for an interactive evening by the campfire as we discuss the unique stories and critters of Pocahontas State Park and the Virginia State Park system.
Please bring your own chairs/blankets, s'more supplies, and a pocket full of questions for this fireside conversation. All ages welcome.
Know Before You Go: Before your visit, find the most up to date health and safety information at virginiastateparks.gov/state-parks/besafe
07/04/20218:00 a.m. - 10:00 a.m. Hidden History: Gill-Dance Cemetry Hike
Location: Dance Parking Lot
The trees and soil have many stories to tell. Join us for a hike back in time along the Dance Forest Trail to learn about Sheriffs William E. and William C. Gill and life in the park in the early 1900's. The hike will be about 2.5 miles on a hard packed trail and include a stop at the Dance Cemetery. Suitable for ages 10 and up. Please dress for the weather and wear sturdy shoes.
Registration is required. Call 804-796-4472 or email ethan.howes@dcr.virginia.gov.
07/04/202112:00 p.m. - 1:00 p.m. Virginia Indians-Fibers and Cordage
Location: Visitor Center
The land that comprises Pocahontas State Park was once traditional hunting and fishing grounds for Algonquian tribes. They depended heavily upon the natural resources for basic necessities, such as grasses for making cordage.
Try your hand at making cordage while learning what grasses and bark were used for indoor and outdoor applications.
Suitable for all ages.
Reservations required: email Rebecca.whalen@dcr.virginia.gov or call 804-796-4472
07/04/20212:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m. Mosaic Turtles
Location: Visitor Center
Turtles have a complex shield covered in a mosaic protein. Join us to find out what we (humans) have in common with that shield. All ages welcome and program will incorporate a craft.
Registrations required. Email Rebecca.whalen@dcr.virignia.gov or call 804-796-4472
07/06/20219:00 a.m. - 10:00 p.m. Campground Hike
Location: Camp Store
Join a ranger and explore sections of the Powhatan Trail to see signs of animals and learn more about the park's history. Trail length is approximately one mile. Suitable for all ages, please dress for the weather.
Programs are designed to complement Virginia Standards of Learning.
Registration is required.
Please call 804-796-4472 or email Rebecca.whalen@dcr.virginia.gov to register.
Know Before You Go: Before your visit, find the most up to date health and safety information at https://www.dcr.virginia.gov/state-parks/besafe
07/06/202110:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m. Wigglin' Worms
Location: Visitor Center
Unearth a creature with no eyes and five hearts. Prepare to get a little dirty as we learn more about worms through hands-on investigations and crafts. Suitable for the whole family.
Program complements Virginia Standards of Learning.
All ages welcome. Please come dressed for the weather and wear sturdy shoes.
Registration is required.
Please call 804-796-4472 or email Rebecca.whalen@dcr.virginia.gov to register.
Know Before You Go: Before your visit, find the most up to date health and safety information at https://www.dcr.virginia.gov/state-parks/besafe
07/06/202112:00 p.m. - 1:00 p.m. Scat Attack
Location: Visitor Center
It starts with an "s" and ends with a "t". It comes out of you, it comes out of me. I know what you're thinking...but it's not that. Us Rangers call it SCAT.
Join us for an up close look at (replica) scat to learn what critters we have at the park and what they've been munching on.
Reservations required: Rebecca.whalen@dcr.virginia.gov or 804-794-4472
07/06/20212:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m. Solar Oven S'mores
Location: Visitor Center
Harness the power of the sun and learn how you can turn your empty pizza boxes into solar ovens. All materials provided, all ages welcome.
Reservations required. Email Rebecca.whalen@dcr.virginia.gov or call 804-796-4472
07/07/20219:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. You Too Can Canoe
Location: Swift Creek Boat Launch
Yes, you too can canoe. Canoes are stable and easy to control, despite what you might have heard.
The trip includes a brief overview of canoeing safety and techniques, and detailed, on-the-water interpretations of natural and cultural features. All equipment will be provided and program is suitable for ages 6 and up.
Boats are limited and attendees must register in advance at the park office or by calling 804-796-4255. $10 per person .
Fees may be paid upon registration, or at start of program and must be in cash or check (credit cards accepted at park office only).
Please bring plenty of water, snacks and sunscreen, wear close-toed shoes and clothes you don't mind getting dirty and/or wet. Arrive 15 minutes early.
Event is subject to cancellation due to inclement weather
07/07/202112:00 p.m. - 1:00 p.m. Something Fishy
Location: Swift Creek Boat Launch
There is something fishy happening around the park. Stop by the tent at the boat launch to learn more about the fish in Swift Creek Lake, try your knot tying skills, and create fun fish crafts. All ages welcome.
Reservations required-email Rebecca.whalen@dcr.virginia.gov or call 804-796-4472
07/07/20212:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m. Radical Reptiles
Location: Visitor Center
Have you ever wondered how snakes can swallow something as big as their own heads? Maybe you've wondered what you'd eat for breakfast if you were a box turtle. Well, here is your chance for an educational and entertaining look at our educational animal's feeding behaviors and taste preferences.
Suitable for all ages and designed to complement the Virginia Standards of Learning.
Registration is required. Please call 804-796-4472 or email Rebecca.whalen@dcr.virginia.gov to register.
Know Before You Go: Before your visit, find the most up to date health and safety information at http://dcr.virginia.gov/state-parks/besafe
01/01/2021
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12/31/2021
8:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. Postcards from Parker
Location: Visitor Center
Do you know someone who would like to receive a special nature note from Ranger Parker Redfox? Email Rebecca.whalen@dcr.virginia.gov or call 804-796-4472 to have Ranger Redfox brighten their day.
Be sure to include their name, age range, address (including zip code), favorite activities/animal, and some positive points about them so that Ranger Redfox can personalize the note.
Suitable for all ages and abilities.
01/01/2021
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12/31/2021
8:00 a.m. - 8:00 p.m. Self-Guided Observations (iNaturalist)
Location: Throughout the park
Contribute to science while you're out enjoying the park. Simply taking photos of the local plants and animals can help people understand more about them. Join the iNaturalist community to learn more and to connect with experts and other scientists.
To start, visit https://www.inaturalist.org/projects/pocahontas-state-park.
07/31/2020
     To       
12/31/2021
8:00 a.m. - 8:00 p.m. Family Led Activities
Location: Your Neighborhood
If you're looking for some fun, family friendly activities during this time, please check out the following links:
Activities to connect kids and nature:
Project Learning Tree: https://www.plt.org/activities-for-families
Information about Vernal Pools:
https://www.sacsplash.org
Modern day treasure hunts:
https://www.geocaching.com/play
Water Education:
Project WET: https://www.projectwet.org/teach-and-learn
Bat Education: https://batslive.pwnet.org
Moth Education:
https://askabiologist.asu.edu/activities/peppered-moth and http://nationalmothweek.org
Monarch/Pollinator Education: https://journeynorth.org/monarchs
Weather: https://www.weather.gov/mhx/MHXskywarn
For additional information, please email Rebecca.whalen@dcr.virginia.gov
01/01/2021
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12/31/2021
8:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. Pocahontas Field Experiences
Location: Visitor Center
Just 20 miles from Richmond sits Virginia's largest State Park. Pocahontas State Park offers year-round environmental and historical programs that invite you and your group to experience the park through hands-on learning.
Standard field trips start at 10 a.m. and end at 12 p.m., with time for lunch afterwards. Students typically rotate through a number of stations, determined by the needs and size of the group.
We have several popular SOL-aligned field trip options, but we can create or modify any program to meet your specific needs. To receive our Field Experience guide, please email Rebecca.whalen@dcr.virginia or call (804) 796-4472.
Fees: Field trips, private group programs, outreach: $3/participant or $30/class, whichever is more cost efficient. No fees for Title 1 schools, and parking fees for busses and all chaperones are waived for scheduled programs.
**New for 2021**
A variety of programs and activities are being offered virtually, at no cost. Contact Rebecca Whalen for more information.

Powhatan State Park
4616 Powhatan State Park Rd., Powhatan, VA 23139
Phone: 804-598-7148   Email Address: powhatan@dcr.virginia.gov
Web Site: www.dcr.virginia.gov/state-parks/powhatan
DateEvent
07/03/202110:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. Archery
Location: Playground Parking
Join a certified archery instructor for a lesson in safety and technique, before setting out on the path to proficiency. Be sure to dress for the weather and bring plenty of water. Program is $3/person. Ages 10 and up. Pre-register at least 2 business days before the program by calling 804-598-7148, or by emailing powhatan@dcr.virginia.gov, please include "Archery" in the subject field and specify the desired program date. Space is limited. Remember to wear closed-toe shoes. No flip flops.
07/06/202110:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. Native Tree Identification Hike
Location: Playground Parking
Have you ever wondered what tree you were walking by in the park? This hike may be just what you're looking for. Led by a local master naturalist volunteer, the hike is an introduction to the basics of native tree identification. The hike will take approximately 1.5 hours on an easily travelled trail that passes many of the native trees found in central Virginia. Be sure to wear closed toe shoes and bring plenty of water.

Sailor's Creek Battlefield State Park
6541 Saylers Creek Rd., Rice, VA 23966
Phone: 804-561-7510   Email Address: SailorsCreek@dcr.virginia.gov
Web Site: www.dcr.virginia.gov/state-parks/sailors-creek
DateEvent
07/03/20211:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m. Civil War Long Arms at Sailor's Creek
Location: Visitor Center
Part II of Rev. Jeffery Schroeder's program series on Weapons Technology of the Civil War will focus on the Long Arms used by infantry soldiers, more commonly referred to as Rifled Muskets. The presentation will cover a wide range of rifles that were loved and hated, failed and succeeded, appeared and disappeared quickly, as each side tried to invent better weapons that would give them an advantageous edge over their enemy throughout the entire four year conflict.
01/01/2021
     To       
12/31/2021
Battlefield Hiking Trails
Location: Sailor's Creek Battlefield
Sailor's Creek Battlefield offers six, self-guided hiking trails with historic markers for the public to explore year round.
Each trail is named for a commander who fought in the last major battle of the Civil War in Virginia, April 6, 1865.
Kershaw Trail: (Gen. Joseph Kershaw, CSA) is a 0.9 mile loop trail.
Custis Lee Trail: (Gen. George Washington Custis Lee, CSA) is a 0.8 mile loop trail.
Wheaton Trail: (Gen. Frank Wheaton, USA) is a 0.7 mile loop trail, that includes a 0.1 mile nature trail spur.
Stagg Trail: (Col. Peter Stagg, USA) is a 0.4 mile linear trail.
Seymour Trail: (Gen. Truman Seymour, USA) is a 0.4 mile linear trail.
Pickett Trail: (Gen. George Pickett, CSA) is a 0.4 mile loop trail.
Each trail is family and pet-friendly. They range in difficulty from Easy to Moderate with varying terrain that is grassy, sandy, shaded, and open, along with elevation changes. Pets must be kept on a leash a maximum of 6 feet in length and controlled by their handlers at all times.
Comfortable clothing, closed-toe shoes, sunscreen and bug spray are recommended.
For questions, contact the Visitor Center (804) 561-7510.
01/01/2021
     To       
12/31/2021
8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Park Packs
Location: Battlefield Visitor Center
All year long, enjoy traversing Sailor's Creek Battlefield with our family-friendly Park Packs. These backpacks hold a variety of items useful for exploring the park on your own.
The Nature Pack has a pair of binoculars, birding field guide, tree identification guide, magnifying glass, bug box and other fun tools.
Our Historical Pack has information on the American Civil War battles that occurred on these hallowed grounds. You can look through one of our most popular books about the fighting, follow battle maps, play historic games or take notes with a pad and pencil about your journey.
The Park Packs are free to use and may be reserved during posted office hours. Only one of each pack is available on a first come, first served basis. Contact the park office for pack availability at (804) 561-7510.
01/01/2021
     To       
12/31/2021
8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. GPS Geocaching Adventure
Location: Battlefield Visitor Center
Try Geocaching, a world-wide phenomenon that uses hand-held GPS (Global Positioning Satellite) units along with satellite technology, to find deliberately hidden objects similar to a treasure hunt.
Informational brochures about Geocaching, and some of our GPS activities, are located at the Battlefield Visitor Center. Try locating our specially-placed park caches.
You can also go to http://www.geocaching.com to get coordinates of the many caches hidden near the park in the surrounding Farmville and Amelia County communities.
Simply stop in at the Battlefield Visitor Center during scheduled open hours and we'll get you started with this adventure-filled, family-friendly activity available to the public all year long.
01/01/2021
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12/31/2021
8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Self-Guided Battlefield Driving Tour
Location: Sailor's Creek Battlefield
A self-guided driving tour of Sailor's Creek Battlefield is available to visitors. At the visitor center, obtain a map which follows an 11-mile loop encompassing the fighting that occurred on April 6, 1865.
Just 72 hours before the surrender of Gen. Lee's Army at Appomattox Court House, the farmland surrounding the Sailor's Creek valley witnessed the last major engagement between Confederate and Federal forces in Virginia
Occurring just before dusk, three independent clashes erupted simultaneously.
Marshall's Crossroads - Federal Cavalry ambush Confederate Infantry.
Hillsman Farm - Federal Infantry and Artillery attack Confederate Infantry.
Lockett Farm - Confederate Rear Guard and Wagon Train defend against Federal Infantry.
Along the driving tour route, roadside pull-offs with informational signs are available for the visitor to learn specific details about each of the three clashes that are collectively known as "The Battles of Sailor's Creek."
For questions about this activity please call the visitor center at 804-561-7510, seven days a week, between 9 a.m. and 4 p.m.
01/01/2021
     To       
12/31/2021
9:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. Tours of the Hillsman House
Location: Hillsman House
Tours of the Hillsman House, a National Historic Landmark, are available to the public by request. Constructed in the 1780's with a wing added in 1815, the home was occupied by Federal forces during the final days of the Civil War in Virginia on April 6, 1865.
Used as a Field Hospital, Federal Surgeons treated the wounded from both sides of the conflict during the Battles of Sailor's Creek, while the Hillsman family took shelter in the cellar.
Today, based on historic accounts from Lt. George Peck of the 2nd Rhode Island who was wounded crossing the creek and treated in the house, the interior is interpreted to look just as it appeared in 1865.
Touring the historic home site is free to the public, however, due to staffing availability and occasional adverse weather conditions, it is highly recommended that visitors call ahead to make a reservation. When available, education specialists provide tours for individuals, families and large groups.
For questions and to make a reservation, please call the Visitor Center at (804) 561-7510.
01/01/2021
     To       
12/31/2021
9:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. Battlefield Museum & Gallery Tours
Location: Visitor Center
The Visitor Center at Sailor's Creek Battlefield Historical State Park offers a museum filled with treasured artifacts discovered over the years where the last major fight of the Civil War in Virginia occurred on April 6, 1865. Open daily, year round (except for Thanksgiving Day and Christmas Day), the museum is a self-guided experience structured as a timeline, and is free to the public.
Through numerous information panels, glass-enclosed exhibits, a short video, rotating display cases, paintings and photographs, visitors will learn about 19th century south side Virginia culture, the start of the Appomattox Campaign, the Battles of Sailor's Creek and current preservation efforts.
Rare artifacts include a variety of weapons, artillery shells, bullets, buttons, personal items, flags and equipment. Detailed maps offer views of the armies as they crisscrossed the countryside trying to outmaneuver one another till they clashed at a small stream called Sailor's Creek.
Park staff and education specialists are always available to answer any questions that arise.

Seven Bends State Park
2111 South Hollingsworth Road, Woodstock, VA 22664
Phone: 540-622-6840   Email Address: sevenbends@dcr.virginia.gov
Web Site: www.dcr.virginia.gov/state-parks/seven-bends
DateEvent
06/29/2021
     To       
07/01/2021
9:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m. Shenandoah Reel Women on the River
Location: Lupton Entrance - 1191 Lupton Rd. Woodstock
This program is supported by the 2020 Virginia Wildlife Grant Program through a partnership
between the Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources and the Wildlife Foundation of Virginia.
In this workshop, young women will be encouraged to learn, teach and mentor each other. Mentored by established SRW members and volunteers, they will be introduced to the art of fly fishing, learning the basics of knot tying, appropriate equipment, entomology, good
casting techniques, and reading the water like a fish. The workshop includes three days
of instruction at Seven Bends State Park. Upon completion, membership in the
Shenandoah Reel Women will be offered. Rods, reels and necessary equipment will be
available for participants to use during the three-day workshop and for additional summer fishing activities.
Registration through Shenandoah County Parks and Recreation, begins May 1, 2021, at
http://www.scpr.info, register online. Registration ends Tuesday June 15th.
Session 1 Activity #330821A Session 2 Activity #330821B
Questions? Contact joan.chapman@fnfsr.org cell: 703-507-2276
Friends of the North Fork of the Shenandoah River office: 540-459-8550
This program is $45 (scholarships available)
07/02/20219:00 a.m. - 10:30 a.m. Get Hooked on Fishing
Location: Meet at the Picnic Shelter - 1191 Lupton Rd
This basic fishing program will teach you what you need to hit the river like a real angler. Learn about the different types of fish and how to cast. Be prepared to get wet, dirty and to create memories with your family that will last a life time. Tackle and rods are provided. Meet at the picnic shelter at the Lupton entrance. All participants above the age of 16 are required to have a current Virginia fishing license. Please Register at the following link.
https://www.eventbrite.com/e/get-hooked-on-fishing-tickets-160815687049
07/03/20218:30 a.m. - 9:30 a.m. Meet a Beekeeper
Location: Lupton entrance barn - 1191 Lupton Rd
Have you ever wondered how pollinators benefit our environment? How about the origins of honeybees or the structure of a hive? The questions are endless, so stop by and talk with an experienced beekeeper. Seven Bends State Park has a cooperative agreement with the Shenandoah County Beekeepers to maintain an apiary in order to promote pollinators and pollinator habitat. Let us show you the ins and outs of an apiary and the vital role bees and other pollinators play in our ecosystem. Registration is limited and COVID restrictions apply.
A valid daily or annual parking pass must be displayed while on state park property. The pass is good for all day and both entrances.
Register at https://www.eventbrite.com/e/meet-the-beekeeper-tickets-154603887389
07/06/2021
     To       
07/08/2021
9:00 a.m. - 3:30 p.m. Shenandoah Reel Women on the River - Fly Fishing
Location: Lupton Entrance - 1191 Lupton Rd Woodstock, VA
This program is supported by the 2020 Virginia Wildlife Grant Program through a partnership
between the Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources and the Wildlife Foundation of Virginia.
In this workshop, young women will be encouraged to learn, teach and mentor each other. Mentored by established SRW members and volunteers, they will be introduced to the art of fly fishing, learning the basics of knot tying, appropriate equipment, entomology, good
casting techniques, and reading the water like a fish. The workshop includes three days
of instruction at Seven Bends State Park. Upon completion, membership in the
Shenandoah Reel Women will be offered. Rods, reels and necessary equipment will be
available for participants to use during the three-day workshop and for additional summer fishing activities.
Registration through Shenandoah County Parks and Recreation, begins May 1, 2021, at
http://www.scpr.info, register online. Registration ends Tuesday June 15 th .
Session 1 Activity #330621A Session 2 Activity #330621B
Questions? Contact joan.chapman@fnfsr.org cell: 703-507-2276
Friends of the North Fork of the Shenandoah River office: 540-459-8550
This program is $45 (scholarships available)
02/05/2021
     To       
12/31/2021
Scavenger Hunts
Location: Entrance Kiosks
A scavenger hunt is a great way to help you see and explore the world around you. Our scavenger hunt brochure has three different hunts so you are sure to find one that is perfect for you. Stop by the kiosk at either entrance of the park to pick up a scavenger hunt brochure.
02/05/2021
     To       
12/31/2021
Geocaching
Location: Entrance Kiosks
Geocaching is a fun outdoor treasure hunt that gets played all over the world. Pick up a geocaching brochure at one of our entrance kiosks to learn about geocaching and start playing here at the park.
02/05/2021
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12/31/2021
Nature Journaling
Location: Entrance Kiosk
Nature journaling is the practice of drawing or writing what you observe in nature. Drawing or writing what you see makes your journal unique and special to you. Doing so will help you notice details in nature that you may have not taken time to notice otherwise. Pick up one of our Nature Journaling brochures from either of our entrance kiosks. The brochure will give you some tips and even some space to get started nature journaling in the park.

Sky Meadows State Park
11012 Edmonds Ln., Delaplane, VA 20144
Phone: 540-592-3556   Email Address: SkyMeadows@dcr.virginia.gov
Web Site: www.dcr.virginia.gov/state-parks/sky-meadows
DateEvent
06/27/2021National Event  5:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. Great American Campout
Location: Historic Area
Don't miss your chance to camp out in the beautiful Historic Mount Bleak backyard. See all that Sky Meadows has to offer through activities beginning at noon on Saturday and running until noon on Sunday. Park rangers will be on hand to help you set up your campsite and tent. First-time and experienced campers won't want to miss all the fun programs, including the Fishing is Fun program, a campfire, nature hikes, Dogs East Search & Rescue demonstrations and more.
Space is limited. Advanced reservations are $30 per campsite, plus taxes and fees. Campsites can accommodate up to six individuals. Dinner on Saturday and breakfast on Sunday are included in your campsite fee. For reservations call 1-800-933-PARK.
06/27/202110:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. Explorer Outpost
Location: Boston Mill Road Trail near the Park Office
From woodlands to wetlands, fields and pastures, let's investigate the plants, animals and history of farming at Sky Meadows State Park. Each day offers a different investigation. We'll have a table full of discovery items for you to see and explore, and other self-guided activities for you to continue exploring on your own.
06/27/202111:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m. Mount Bleak House Tours
Location: Mount Bleak House in Historic Area
Walk through history by touring historic Mount Bleak House. Join a ranger or docent and hear the story of the many owners of this 1840's house and how they shaped the history of Sky Meadows. Feel a part of their stories as you enjoy opportunities to view each room in this historic home.
Tours are subject to ranger or docent availability. Please inquire inside the Visitor Center for a tour.
07/03/202110:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. Explorer Outpost
Location: Boston Mill Road Trail near the Park Office
From woodlands to wetlands, fields and pastures, let's investigate the plants, animals and history of farming at Sky Meadows State Park. Each day offers a different investigation. We'll have a table full of discovery items for you to see and explore, and other self-guided activities for you to continue exploring on your own.
07/03/202112:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m. The Farmer's Forge
Location: Blacksmith Shop in the Historic Area
The forge is fired up and the blacksmiths are hard at work in the Historic Area. Members of the Blacksmith Guild of the Potomac have set up shop and are ready to show off their skills. Stop by the Blacksmith Shop, located behind the Dairy Barn in the Historic Area, and see them fashion iron into helpful tools and kitchen items used on the farm.
07/03/20217:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m. Welcome Campfire
Location: Campground Amphitheatre
This program is geared to overnight camping guests. For those not camping, program requires a two-mile round trip hike from Historic Area parking lot.
Nestled at the base of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Sky Meadows' campground provides you with a fantastic place to enjoy peaceful rejuvenation, but how much do you know about this wonderful park? As you sit around a flickering fire hearing the crescendo of nature's night life, be inspired by the story of Sky Meadows State Park. Hear of the many programs, events and recreational opportunities that await you, your family and friends during your visit.
07/04/202110:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. Explorer Outpost
Location: Boston Mill Road Trail near the Park Office
From woodlands to wetlands, fields and pastures, let's investigate the plants, animals and history of farming at Sky Meadows State Park. Each day offers a different investigation. We'll have a table full of discovery items for you to see and explore, and other self-guided activities for you to continue exploring on your own.

Smith Mountain Lake State Park
1235 State Park Rd., Huddleston, VA 24104
Phone: 540-297-6066   Email Address: smlake@dcr.virginia.gov
Web Site: www.dcr.virginia.gov/state-parks/smith-mountain-lake
DateEvent
06/27/20211:00 p.m. - 2:00 p.m. What Bird Am I?
Location: Campground, near bathhouse
Join the park interpreter and see how many of our common birds you can identify. Challenge yourself to name various birds found around Smith Mountain Lake. We'll listen to several bird songs, then you can make your own bird call to keep. Take it with you to attract birds as you hike along one of over 12 miles of trails here in the park.
Space is limited. Please pre-register at the park office. $3.00 per person.
06/27/20212:30 p.m. - 3:30 p.m. Critter of the Month Comes to You
Location: Campground, next to bathhouse
The Critter of the Month is featured on every bulletin board within the park. Join the park interpreter to learn answers to frequently asked questions about the Critter of the Month. Is the critter this month small, medium or large? What is unique about this critter? Have you seen it in our park? Can you come up with a question to stump the ranger? Free
06/29/202112:30 p.m. - 1:30 p.m. Under the Surface
Location: Boat Ramp, at fishing pier
Ever wonder what the fish are doing when they dive deep under water? Join our park interpreter and get an underwater view of life below the surface with our Aqua-Vu camera. Learn about the different species of fish found in Smith Mountain Lake.
06/29/20212:30 p.m. - 3:30 p.m. Insect Detectives
Location: Discovery Center Pavilion
Scurry on over to investigate the secret life of a bug. Learn how important these tiny creatures are to our ecosystems. We'll look at bugs of all shapes & sizes and then view some under magnification. Free
06/29/20215:00 p.m. - 6:00 p.m. Let's Get Batty
Location: Campground, next to bathhouse
As the sun slips past the horizon and night falls, winged nocturnal creatures take flight. Bats are often misunderstood, with misguided beliefs and superstitions about them. With a spreading fungus that is threatening their population numbers, it is important to gain a better understanding of those fascinating mammals. Flap on over and learn about our winged mammal friends and what we can do to help them.
**To ensure the safety of all participants, we ask that you follow all CDC guidelines including wearing a mask if not fully vaccinated and social distancing from those outside your family group.**
07/02/2021
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07/04/2021
Special Event  8:00 a.m. - 9:00 p.m. Independence Day Weekend Activities
Location: Parkwide
The summer is in full swing at Smith Mountain Lake State Park. Beat the heat & enjoy some affordable family fun with us this July 4th. Enjoy our programs all around the park throughout the entire Independence Day week. Some of the activities include a campfire, making a unique souvenir to take home, learning about the fish in the lake, and even creating art while enjoying our swimming beach.
Click on this link https://tinyurl.com/4y62k3ws for a list of individual programs and times. Some programs require pre-registration & fees while most are free. Regular parking fees apply.
We'll see you there.
07/02/202111:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. Independence Day Holiday - Amazing Monarchs
Location: Beach
Explore the life cycle of butterflies. Learn what is special about the monarch butterfly. What do they like to eat? Where do they go in the winter? Create your own caterpillar to keep. After the program, be sure to stop by our butterfly garden, at our Discovery Center, and see if you can spot any monarch butterflies sipping nectar from the flowers.
07/02/20211:30 p.m. - 2:30 p.m. Independence Day Holiday - Feeding Frenzy
Location: Visitor Center
Smith Mountain Lake, the second largest lake in Virginia, has a wide variety of freshwater fish, many of which are on display in our 700 gallon aquarium located at the park's Visitor Center. See how many species of fish you can identify as you learn about the lake's ecology with our park ranger. You can even help the ranger feed the fish.
Free
07/02/20214:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m. Independence Day Holiday - Follow the Tracks
Location: Campground
Who made those footprints? Join us for some games and learn all about animal tracks. Then, keep your eyes open - you may just see some freshly made tracks in the sand on the beach, or in the dirt on the trails. Free
07/03/202111:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. Independence Day Holiday - Beach Kids: Crafts
Location: Next to Beach Pavilion
Take some time to get out of the hot sun and join our park nature interpreter under the tent for some fun crafts. Create your own butterfly, do some scratch art, or have fun with stickers. You are only limited by your imagination.
This is a free program, but seasonal beach swim rates apply.
07/03/20212:30 p.m. - 3:30 p.m. Independence Day Holiday: Reduce, Re-use, Recycle
Location: Discovery Center Pavilion
Celebrate Earth Day every day. Learn how you can help keep our environment clean, as well as help our local wildlife. Participate in fun activities where you'll learn to re-purpose items that might otherwise have ended up in the landfill. Here is a great way to turn trash to 'treasure'. Make a soda bottle birdfeeder using recyclable materials. Free, but regular parking fees apply.
**To ensure the safety of all participants, we ask that you follow all CDC guidelines including wearing a mask if not fully vaccinated and social distancing from those outside your family group**
07/04/20218:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m. Independence Day Weekend - Fireworks Campfire
Location: Campfire Amphitheater, across from the campground
What's a camping trip without a campfire? Join us as we celebrate the birth of our nation. This is a great way for the family to wind down after a busy day. We'll also have a special treat for the kids for this 4th of July campfire. Free
PLEASE NOTE:
The Parkway Marina Fireworks show has been cancelled this year. We will still have the campfire on July 4th, but there will not be fireworks that night.
01/01/2021
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01/31/2022
8:00 a.m. - 8:00 p.m. Bike Smith Mountain Lake State Park
Location: Parkwide
Biking is a wonderful activity to do here in the park. Our trails and roadways are wonderful routes to use for an enjoyable ride. All of our trails are available for mountain biking. Bring your own bike, or you can rent one of ours at our Visitor Center. Rentals are $5.00 per hour, or $15.00 for 4 hours or more daily. Bikes are first-come, first-serve and include the use of a bike helmet.
If you prefer, you could follow the 8.7-mile segment of the Smith Mountain Lake Bike Route that winds through the park. This 50-mile bike route in Bedford County was created to maximize scenic views of the lake. The route is laid out along public roads, so please watch out for cars. You may obtain a map of the SML Bike Route at the Visitor Center during regular hours 8:00 a.m. and 4:30 p.m.
For safety when riding, always wear your helmet and the proper footwear. Dress appropriately for the weather. Bring water, sunscreen, sunglasses and insect repellent.
(Some areas of the park are only accessible from dawn to dusk.)
01/01/2021
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01/31/2022
8:00 a.m. - 8:00 p.m. Fish Smith Mountain Lake State Park
Location: Parkwide
Smith Mountain Lake is the perfect location for fishing. Whether you are a novice, beginner, or expert angler, grab your fishing pole and bait, and head over to the lake. The park offers a partially covered fishing pier, as well as areas along the shoreline from which to fish. Fishing is not permitted at our swim beach area or off any of the park docks.
In accordance with state law, a valid Virginia Fishing license is required for anyone age 16 and older, and must be kept with you while fishing. If you do not have a current license, you may purchase one at the Visitor Center.
Some essential items to have to make your day an 'off the hook' fishing experience: cool water, sunscreen, bug spray, extra fishing supplies, and a "Fish of Smith Mountain Lake" brochure. You may pick up this brochure and a copy of the Department of Wildlife Resources "Freshwater Fishing and Boating in Virginia" guide at our Visitor Center. Visitor Center regular hours of operation are 8:00 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. (Some areas of the park are only open from dawn to dusk.)
01/01/2021
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01/31/2022
8:00 a.m. - 8:00 p.m. Junior Ranger Booklet
Location: Parkwide
Are you looking for a great activity for the kids that is both fun and educational? Then come by the Visitor Center during office hours and ask for a Smith Mountain Lake State Park Jr. Ranger Activity Booklet (download online here: http://vasp.fun/smljrranger). Our Junior Ranger booklet allows kids the option of becoming a Junior Ranger through self-guided activities or by attending a few park activities, such as nature programs, when scheduled. The booklet consists of several nature and park-history themed activities with instructions for each. Once the activities are completed, stop by the Visitor Center or Discovery Center to have a park ranger check the work, administer the Junior Ranger oath and present a certificate signed and dated by a park ranger, along with their very own official Jr. Ranger badge. We hope you will join our Jr. Ranger team very soon.
Regular Visitor Center hours are 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. daily. Call 540-297-6066 for extended summer hours. Note: some areas of the park are only open dawn to dusk.
01/01/2021
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01/31/2022
8:00 a.m. - 8:00 p.m. Hike Smith Mountain Lake State Park
Location: Parkwide
The park has over 12 miles of beautiful hiking trails that range in difficulty from easy to moderate. Some trails, such as Lakeview Trail, allow for leisurely strolls, whereas trails like Stripers Cove Trail are for the more zealous hiker. Each trail is clearly marked with colored blazes. Signage along some of the trails identify the types of trees, and interpretive signs on Turtle Island Trail educate guests on forest succession. Along the trails, one can take in views of the lake, watch for wildlife or discover signs of the areas' historical past. Always wear appropriate clothing, proper footwear and bring plenty of water. Trail maps are available in several places around the park, including the Visitor Center, boat ramp, Discovery Center and Turtle Island Trail head. Trails are open dawn to dusk.
Optional to bring: camera, hiking stick, insect repellent, sunscreen and binoculars. Pets are welcome if well behaved, and are required to stay on a leash at all times while in the park. Please pick up after your pet and dispose of in a trash receptacle.
01/01/2021
     To       
01/31/2022
8:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. Geocaching - Hidden Treasure
Location: Parkwide
Discover the secrets of the park through Geocaching. Geocaching is a worldwide game of hiding and seeking treasure. A geocacher can place a geocache out in the world, pinpoint its location using GPS technology, and then share the geocache's existence and location online. Anyone with a GPS unit can then try to locate the geocache. You can use your own GPS unit or the GPS app on your phone. Go online to http://www.geocaching.com for more information on geocaching or locations of other caches found near the park.
Before heading out on your adventure make sure to have plenty of water, sunscreen, bug spray, and the proper footwear. Please use caution if leaving the main trail while in search of a geocache, to avoid contact with poison ivy and to minimize disturbance of plants or erosion. Make sure to keep your eyes peeled: you never know where a cache might be.
Please go to this link https://tinyurl.com/y4y4s8ob to find tips on how to stay safe geocaching.

Southwest Virginia Museum
10 West First St., Big Stone Gap, VA 24219
Phone: 276-523-1322   Email Address: SWVAMuseum@dcr.virginia.gov
Web Site: www.dcr.virginia.gov/state-parks/southwest-virginia-museum
DateEvent
07/03/20217:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m. July Coffee House
Location: Museum's Back Lawn
The Southwest Virginia Museum Historical State Park will host its First Saturday Community Coffee House on Saturday, July 3, from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. on the back lawn of the museum. Jim/Ann Country will serve as the featured host for this month's Coffee House.
The First Saturday Community Coffee House is an open-mic event and is open to all family-friendly performers. All interested musicians, storytellers and poets should arrive by 6:30 p.m. for sign-up and scheduling.
The park will comply with the state Covid 19 regulations in place at the time the program is offered.

Staunton River State Park
1170 Staunton Trail, Scottsburg, VA 24589
Phone: 434-572-4623   Email Address: StauntonRiver@dcr.virginia.gov
Web Site: www.dcr.virginia.gov/state-parks/staunton-river
DateEvent
06/27/20219:30 a.m. - 11:00 a.m. Happy Hikers
Location: Visitor Center
Meet a ranger at the Visitor Center for a guided hike on the River Bank Trail. The trail winds along the banks of the Staunton and Dan Rivers to The Point, offering unspoiled views of where both rivers converge to form Bugg's Island Lake. While hiking, a ranger will introduce guests to the many trees, birds, and wildlife found within the park. Be prepared to hike nearly three miles, dress appropriately for the weather, and wear comfortable walking shoes or hiking boots. Don't forget to pack water, sunscreen, and bug spray!Program subject to change in the event of inclement weather.
07/02/20214:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m. Welcome Wagon
Location: Campground
Be on the lookout for roving rangers as they travel the campground to find out what cool things they brought with them from our Visitor Center. Don't be shy - feel free to ask the ranger about what they brought with them, fun activities going on in the park, or the wildlife you might see while you're here.
07/02/20217:30 p.m. - 8:30 p.m. Friday by the Fire
Location: Fire Ring Behind the Visitor Center
Join us by the campfire at Staunton River State Park!Meet a Ranger at the fire ring next to the Visitor Center to learn the essentials of building a safe campfire. Once the fire gets going, enjoy a S'more. Do you have a delicious recipe to make the perfect s'more? Bring it over with you and show off your amazing s'more construction skills. Materials for s'mores will be provided by the park. There is no fee for this program.
07/02/20218:30 p.m. - 10:00 p.m. Movie Under the Stars
Location: Amphitheater at the Visitor Center
Enjoy a movie under the stars at Staunton River State Park! The movie of the night will be selected by park staff who will also be serving popcorn to complete your movie going experience.Program is subject to cancellation due to inclement weather, so be sure to check with the Visitor Center about the status of the program. No event fee required.Parking fee is required unless you are a cabin or campground guest.
07/04/20218:30 p.m. - 10:00 p.m. Movie Under the Stars
Location: Amphitheater at the Visitor Center
Enjoy a movie under the stars at Staunton River State Park! The movie of the night will be selected by park staff who will also be serving popcorn to complete your movie going experience.Program is subject to cancellation due to inclement weather, so be sure to check with the Visitor Center about the status of the program. No event fee required.Parking fee is required unless you are a cabin or campground guest.

Twin Lakes State Park
788 Twin Lakes Rd., Green Bay, VA 23942
Phone: 434-392-3435   Email Address: TwinLakes@dcr.virginia.gov
Web Site: www.dcr.virginia.gov/state-parks/twin-lakes
DateEvent
06/27/20211:00 p.m. - 2:00 p.m. Making Tracks
Location: Near The Spot Snack Bar
Bodies of water attract wildlife, and therefore are great places to look for animal tracks. At this program you will learn how to identify some of these prints, and even make your own to take home.
Parks are for everyone. To ensure an enjoyable time, please alert park staff to any necessary special accommodations you or your group may need.
06/27/20213:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m. Hot Off The Press
Location: Near The Spot Snack Bar
Travel through time on this scavenger hunt. In celebration of the park's history, we'll be digging through the Camp Gallion Dispatch--the newspaper written by the young African American men who created the lakes here--to find silly stories, funny drawings, and other interesting things.
Parks are for everyone. To ensure an enjoyable time, please alert park staff to any necessary special accommodations you or your group may need.
07/01/202111:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. Backyard Bass
Location: Behind The Spot Snack Bar
You are stranded on a deserted island with only a fishing pole... could you survive? Find out by playing this land-based fishing game suitable for all ages.
Parks are for everyone. To ensure an enjoyable time, please alert park staff to any necessary special accommodations you or your group may need.
07/02/202111:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. Lake Explorers
Location: Behind The Spot Snack Bar
At the edges of Goodwin Lake, a tiny world is waiting to be explored. Join a ranger and use dip nets as we search for and identify creatures from the water, and discuss their role in the ecosystem.
Parks are for everyone. To ensure an enjoyable time, please alert park staff to any necessary special accommodations you or your group may need.
07/02/20214:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m. Ranger Round-Up
Location: Park Office
Our rangers have rounded up some cool items from around the park to learn about at this interactive touch table and will be available to answer any other questions you may have. Happening every Friday in July, this program is a great way to learn about the park and the upcoming weekend activities.
Parks are for everyone. To ensure an enjoyable time, please alert park staff to any necessary special accommodations you or your group may need.
07/03/202110:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m. Testing the Waters
Location: Swim Area
How hard is it to create a lake, anyway? Make one and find out. We'll be building (miniature) dams to explore how man-made lakes are formed. We'll dig into the incredible story of the Black men who built the dams that spawned our "twin" lakes.
Parks are for everyone. To ensure an enjoyable time, please alert park staff to any necessary special accommodations you or your group may need.
07/03/20211:00 p.m. - 2:30 p.m. Archery
Location: Meets at The Spot Snack Bar
Learn the essentials of basic target archery. The equipment is not suitable for children under the age of 10. Closed-toe shoes are required. Cost is $5/person or $4/person for groups of 4 or more. Guests must register at The Spot at least an hour in advance of the program start time. Space is limited and spots are reserved on a first-come-first-serve basis.
Parks are for everyone. To ensure an enjoyable time, please alert park staff to any necessary special accommodations you or your group may need.
07/03/20213:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m. Wildlife Mosaic Art
Location: Interpretive Circle Near The Spot Snack Bar
Mosaic art is much like the natural world around us - many smaller pieces that form a greater whole. This free craft program allows guests to experience the joy of this activity and acquire a unique souvenir of their 4th of July weekend visit. All materials provided.
07/04/202110:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m. Written in the Trees Hike
Location: Near The Spot Snack Bar
On this low difficulty hike on Goodwin Lake Trail, we'll discover what kinds of stories nature has to tell, and how we as humans can draw inspiration from the resiliency of nature. Insect repellant, sunscreen, sturdy hiking shoes and a bottle of water are highly recommended.
07/04/20211:00 p.m. - 2:30 p.m. Snakes
Location: Near The Spot Snack Bar
While sometimes misunderstood, snakes play an important role in many ecosystems. Meet the park's friendly neighborhood corn snake and learn about the fantastic behavior and biology of snakes in Virginia. We'll go over what distinguishes a venomous snake in this area, and how to act if you encounter one.
Parks are for everyone. To ensure an enjoyable time, please alert park staff to any necessary special accommodations you or your group may need.

Wilderness Road State Park
8051 Wilderness Rd., Ewing, VA 24248
Phone: 276-445-3065   Email Address: WildernessRoad@dcr.virginia.gov
Web Site: www.dcr.virginia.gov/state-parks/wilderness-road
DateEvent
07/04/202111:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. A Declaration of Independence
Location: Martin's Station
News spreads across Virginia's frontier that on July 4, 1776, the Second Continental Congress, meeting in Philadelphia, approved a Declaration of Independence, severing the colonies' ties to the British Crown. Experience the news of liberty with the men and women at Martin's Station and discuss how the pending war will affect their lives.

York River State Park
9801 York River Park Rd., Williamsburg, VA 23188
Phone: 757-566-3036   Email Address: YorkRiver@dcr.virginia.gov
Web Site: www.dcr.virginia.gov/state-parks/york-river
DateEvent
06/27/20211:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m. Going in Seine
Location: Seining Beach
The brackish waters of the York River has a unique variety of fish and shellfish. Follow the Woodstock Pond Trail to the river access point past shelter #3 to the left of the pond, Rangers will be using 2-man seine and other nets to discover what is in the water
06/27/20214:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m. Roaming Ranger
Location: 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.
06/27/20215:30 p.m. - 7:30 p.m. Sunset Paddle
Location: Amphitheater
End the weekend with a scenic trip on the York River (or Taskinas Creek depending on water conditions) in the evening. Discover the birds and creatures that are active in the gentle light of sunset. Cost. Canoes $9/person or $6/person (family of 4+), solo kayak $16/person, tandem kayak $11/person.
Prepayment required with reservation.
06/28/202111:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. Osprey Watch
Location: Visitor Center
See the majestic osprey right behind our Visitor Center. Discover their role in the Chesapeake Bay ecosystem and how we almost lost them. The birds have at least one egg and expecting a chick or two. You may even see one or two feeding in the pine trees near the amphitheater. Bring your own viewing equipment.
06/29/202111:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. Pollinator Picnic
Location: Visitor Center
Do you enjoy arts and crafts? Looking for any excuse to spend time outdoors? Then grab your kiddos or some friends, a snack, and your favorite picnic blanket to join us for Pollinator Picnic. Spend an hour with a park ranger learning the importance of pollinators and native plants here in Hampton Roads while enjoying the beautiful park scenery and creating your own pollinator craft to take home. This program is free and all ages welcome! Reservations are required.
06/30/202111:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. Meet the Marsh
Location: Taskinas Creek Overlook
The Taskinas Creek overlook offers an impressive view of an estuarine marsh. But, how does the marsh differ from a swamp? What creatures make their home in such an environment? What fish can be found it the creek? A ranger will be nearby to help you discover what can be found in this unique ecosystem.
07/01/20214:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m. Leaf A Long
Location: Amphitheater
Join York River park interpreters for a one-mile hike that explores Virginia's unique and diverse native tree species. It is important we get to know these trees as our neighbors, as it increases our appreciation of the natural environment. Water and closed-toed shoes are encouraged for this adventure along our Beaver Trail
07/02/202110:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. Stream to Sea Stroll
Location: Amphitheater
Take a walk and discover life in four different aquatic ecosystems. We will hike to a small woodland and marsh stream, freshwater pond, and brackish/saltwater river. With nets, we will capture and identify different crustaceans, fish, and take note of plant life. Reservations are required.
07/03/202110:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. Fossil Frenqy Hike
Location: Amphitheater
Long before there was a York River State Park, or even a York River, 6,000 plus years ago, marine creatures swam here in a shallow sea. Early whales, porpoises, sharks, clams, scallops, and snails all left traces of their existence which we now find as fossils. Join us in discovering relics of these very old creatures as we hike to a fossil beach. Reservations must be made in advance
07/03/20211:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m. Fossil Finds
Location: Visitor Center
What relic from the pre-historic past did you find at Fossil Beach? Our friendly park ranger will help you identify your fossil and show a few others that have been found by keen-eyed visitors. You may discover a nearby osprey as well.
07/03/20214:00 p.m. - 6:00 p.m. Dabble in Discovery
Location: 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.
07/05/202110:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. Osprey Watch
Location: Visitor Center
See the majestic osprey right behind our Visitor Center. Discover their role in the Chesapeake Bay ecosystem and how we almost lost them. The two chicks will soon be making their first flight. You may even see one or two feeding in the pine trees near the amphitheater. Bring your own viewing equipment.
07/06/20213:30 p.m. - 4:30 p.m. Pollinator Picnic
Location: Visitor Center
Do you enjoy arts and crafts? Looking for any excuse to spend time outdoors? Then grab your kiddos or some friends, a snack, and your favorite picnic blanket to join us for Pollinator Picnic. Spend an hour with a park ranger learning the importance of pollinators and native plants here in Hampton Roads while enjoying the beautiful park scenery and creating your own pollinator craft to take home. This program is free and all ages welcome! Reservations are required.
07/06/20215:00 p.m. - 6:00 p.m. Leaf A Long
Location: Amphitheater
Join York River park interpreters for a one-mile hike that explores Virginia's unique and diverse native tree species. It is important we get to know these trees as our neighbors, as it increases our appreciation of the natural environment. Water and closed-toed shoes are encouraged for this adventure along our Beaver Trail
07/07/202110:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. Meet the Marsh
Location: Visitor Center
The Taskinas Creek overlook offers an impressive view of an estuarine marsh. But, how does the marsh differ from a swamp? What creatures make their home in such an environment? What fish can be found it the creek? A ranger will be nearby to help you discover what can be found in this unique ecosystem.
02/27/2021
     To       
12/27/2021
8:00 a.m. - 5:30 p.m. Bluebird Loop Self Guided Interpretive Trail
Location: Visitor Center
The Bluebird Loop Trail is a place where all park guests can visit and enjoy some of the most beautiful views in the park. The trail is completely paved making it convenient for people with mobility challenges and families with small children and strollers. The Visitor's Center is in the middle of the loop with exhibits to enhance your visit and escape inclement weather. Bikers, hikers, and paddlers can use the loop as the start of their adventures. A quick visit to this little trail is a great introduction to our park.
01/12/2021
     To       
12/31/2021
8:00 a.m. - 5:30 p.m. Taskinas Creek Self-guided Trail
Location: Taskinas Creek Trail
Enjoy the challenge of steep, wooded ravines and the views of the estuarine marsh. Taskinas Creek Trail is over two miles of hiking adventure with dramatic overlooks that are perfect for photography, wildlife viewing, and just enjoying solitude. Hike self-guided, or call the park office in advance to schedule a ranger guided Taskinas Trek.