40th Anniversary Events

Bumble Bee Blast

Discover the bumble bees of Western Virginia and help field zoologist Ellison Orcutt hunt for new locations of the Endangered Rusty-patched Bumble Bee.Join Ellison to learn about the bumble bee and other native bee diversity of Virginia and help with an endangered bumble bee survey. We might not find a rusty-patch but we wont know until we look.

If rainstorms are likely on July 21, the trip will be rescheduled to July 22.

Please proceed to the main parking lot near the office to meet for the trip. Contact Ellison.Orcutt@dcr.virginia.gov with questions

Other Details

Registration required: Register here
Date: July 21, 2026. 10:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., 2.5 hours. Raindate: July 22, 2026.
Location: Hayfields State Park, 524 Hayfields Lane, McDowell, VA 24458
Maximum capacity: 25
Age: Best for ages 8 and up. Children must be accompanied by an adult.
Pets: No
Clothing: Please dress appropriately for the weather and wear sturdy and comfortable shoes.
Amenities: Restrooms on site. There is unlikely to be cell signal for most cell carriers at the park.
Supplies: Bring water, snacks, sunscreen. Pack a lunch for after the hike if you like.

Participants should be able to:

Expect to hike on fairly level ground for 1.75-2 miles.
Understand and follow directions to avoid/manage risks.
Tolerate the elements including temperature for the duration.
Traverse unpaved and uneven trails.

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