Due to the expected impact of the winter storm, all Virginia State Park overnight facilities will be closed from Friday, Jan. 23 through Tuesday, Jan. 27. This decision is based on the forecast for unsafe conditions and potential power outages. For updates click here.

Media Center - News Release

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

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Date: August 05, 2025
Contact: Starr Anderson, Public Relations and Marketing Specialist, 540-460-1540, starr.anderson@dcr.virginia.gov

Virginia State Parks offers engaging educational field trips for students of all ages

(Editors: Follow this link to download an image. Photo caption: Field Trip to Virginia State Parks)

(Editors: Follow this link to download an image. Photo caption: Educational Program at Virginia State Parks)

(Editors: Follow this link to download an image. Photo caption: Interactive Table at Virginia State Parks)

RICHMOND, Va. — Virginia State Parks invites educators to move their classrooms to the outdoors this school year, allowing students to explore nature through a variety of hands-on educational programs.

With 44 parks across the commonwealth, Virginia's state parks are uniquely positioned to bring science, history and environmental education to life in real-world settings. Park rangers guide students through interactive programs that complement the Virginia Standards of Learning.

“We want every student in Virginia, whether in traditional classrooms or learning from home, to have access to enriching outdoor educational experiences,” said Chief of Education and Interpretation Katie Shepard. “Our parks are living classrooms where students can explore ecosystems, discover wildlife and engage with the state’s rich cultural history.”

Field trip opportunities range from guided nature hikes and fossil hunts to reenactments of colonial life and conservation projects.

Homeschool families can take advantage of customizable group programs, flexible scheduling and themed homeschool days held throughout the year.

Teachers, homeschool groups and educational coordinators are encouraged to visit www.virginiastateparks.gov/find-a-park and contact a park near them to discuss field trip options and specific learning goals.

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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 www.virginiastateparks.gov.

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