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Media inquiries: Please contact Dave Neudeck, dave.neudeck@dcr.virginia.gov, 804-786-5053.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Date: March 27, 2025
Contact: Starr Anderson, Public Relations and Marketing Specialist, 540-460-1540, starr.anderson@dcr.virginia.gov

Staunton River State Park offers self-guided astronomy programs

(Editors: Follow this link to download an image. Photo caption: Photo courtesy of Jonathan Piques)

(Editors: Follow this link to download an image. Photo caption: Dark Sky Observation Field)

SCOTTSBURG, Va. – Staunton River State Park, an International Dark Sky Park, is offering self-guided astronomy programs throughout 2025 at its Dark Sky Observation Field, allowing visitors to experience the wonders of the night sky at their own pace.

As a designated International Dark Sky Park by DarkSky International, Staunton River State Park provides optimal conditions for stargazing. Self-guided astronomy programs will be offered on nights when celestial phenomena take place.

April 16-April 25: Lyrids Meteor Shower
April 19-May 28: Eta Aquarids Meteor Shower
July 12-Aug. 23: Delta Aquarids Meteor Shower
July 17-Aug. 24: Perseids Meteor Shower
Oct. 2-Nov. 7: Orionids Meteor Shower
Nov. 6-Nov. 30: Leonids Meteor Shower
Dec. 17-Dec. 25: Ursids Meteor Shower

On these dates, the Dark Sky Observation Field will remain open after park hours from 11 p.m. to 6 a.m. Visitors are encouraged to bring their telescopes, binoculars, red-filtered flashlights and blankets or chairs to enhance their experience. Regular parking fees apply.

Camping on the field is not allowed; however, visitors can reserve one of the park’s furnished cabins, an RV campsite or a tent site to extend their stay under the stars.

Staunton River State Park also hosts guided astronomy events in collaboration with local astronomy organizations, providing additional opportunities for night sky exploration.

For more information about the park’s astronomy programs and events, please go to virginiastateparks.gov/events or call 434-572-4623. Cabin and campsite reservations can be made at reservevaparks.com.

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Virginia State Parks are managed by the Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation. For more information about Virginia State Parks’ activities and amenities or to reserve one of the more than 1,800 campsites or 300 climate-controlled cabins, call the Virginia State Parks Reservation Center at 800-933-PARK or visit virginiastateparks.gov. 

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