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: September 18, 2025
Contact: Starr Anderson, Public Relations and Marketing Specialist, 540-460-1540, starr.anderson@dcr.virginia.gov

Rooftop Tent Rally returns to James River State Park this fall

(Editors: Follow this link to download an image. Photo caption: Rooftop Tent Rally)

GLADSTONE, Va. – Outdoor enthusiasts are invited to James River State Park for the annual Rooftop Tent Rally, presented by the Friends of James River State Park, a celebration of camping, community and adventure.

The rally, scheduled for Oct. 16-19, brings together overlanding and camping fans from across the region for a weekend of exploration and camaraderie in the heart of Virginia’s scenic Blue Ridge foothills.

“James River State Park is an incredible setting for this event,” said Park Manager John Fury. “The Rooftop Tent Rally not only highlights the growing interest in overlanding and car-top camping, but it also gives visitors the chance to connect with nature and each other in a unique way.”

Participants will camp in rooftop tents and overlanding setups in the park’s Dark Sky Observation Field. In addition to outdoor recreation, the event features live music, food trucks, gear demos, a campsite cook-off and more.

Camping space is limited, and pre-registration is required. Early arrival tickets cost $155 and include camping privileges from Thursday through Sunday. Weekend tickets cost $135 and include camping privileges from Friday through Sunday. These costs are per vehicle or camping rig. Tickets can be purchased online at www.virginiastateparks.gov/jr-rooftop-rally.

The Rooftop Tent Rally is open to day-use visitors. Other than the regular park entrance fee, there is no additional fee to attend.

For more information about the Rooftop Tent Rally or to register, visit www.virginiastateparks.gov/jr-rooftop-rally or call 434-933-4355.

-30-

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

Share this news release: