Media Center - Press Release

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

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Date: November 19, 2025
Contact: Kim Wells, Public Relations and Marketing Specialist, 804-217-1077, kim.wells@dcr.virginia.gov

Opt Outside Thanksgiving weekend at Virginia State Parks
Make memories outdoors this holiday season

(Editors: Follow this link to download an image. Photo caption: Fall trail at Virginia State Park)

(Editors: Follow this link to download an image. Photo caption: Sweet Run State Park overlook and picnic area)

(Editors: Follow this link to download an image. Photo caption: Tye overlook at James River State Park)

(Editors: Follow this link to download an image. Photo caption: Lake Anna in the fall)

RICHMOND, Va. - Virginia State Parks will host the annual #OptOutside event to encourage people to take a break from screen time and shopping lines and opt outside for fun instead. The campaign will run from Nov. 28 through Dec. 1 at all Virginia State Park locations.

Virginia State Parks will offer a variety of self-guided and ranger-led activities designed to help visitors of all ages create meaningful Thanksgiving memories outdoors. Reconnect with friends, family and nature through one of the many activities available.

Consider one of these activities:

Guided hikes at False Cape, Fairy Stone, Douthat or Bear Creek Lake
Critter Chow at Sky Meadows
Guided Stress Relief Program or History Hike at Mason Neck State Park
Wildlife Hike, Welcome Campfire or Stargazing at Holiday Lake
Animal Tracking at Sweet Run
Tye at Twilight at James River

For a complete list of Virginia State Parks Opt Outside activities, visit the programs and events section of the state parks website.

Those with Virginia State Park license plates, free parking will be available on Nov. 28 in celebration of Opt Outside Day.

-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 virginiastateparks.gov.

Share this news release: