Merchandise sales locations will be closed state-wide for the required annual inventory beginning Wednesday, April 15 and will reopen when completed on April 16. 

Open fires are prohibited throughout the park from midnight to 4 p.m., Feb. 15 through April 30. Learn more.

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Shellie Leete

Shellie Leete

Shellie Leete, former DCR blog writer.


Blogger "Shellie Leete"Clear, category "Hiking"Clear results in following blogs.

6 reasons to visit Natural Bridge this fall

By Shellie LeetePosted September 30, 2025
When you think of Natural Bridge State Park, the first thing that comes to mind is probably the 200-foot-tall Natural Bridge. This iconic Virginia landmark is truly awe-inspiring, but if you haven't explored the rest of the park, you're missing out.
Natural Bridge

9 Great Rail Trails in Virginia

By Shellie LeetePosted March 25, 2021
Take in the beautiful Virginia countryside as you ride the former rails on our state's rail-trails. Two of the longest are scenic Virginia State Parks.
Abandoned rail lines converted into trails for hiking, biking, equestrian use (New River Trail State Park)

Why You Need to Add This Park to Your Must-Visit List!

By Shellie LeetePosted November 13, 2020
Explore what makes Staunton River State Park a must on your visit list.
Gorgeous fall sunrise over the Staunton River

Two of the Best Spring Drives in Virginia

By Shellie LeetePosted March 09, 2020
There is nothing like spring in Virginia, you can't go wrong in any direction you choose, but here are two favorite drives with amazing scenery along the way.
The mountains are a-callin

Most Popular Instagram Spots in Virginia State Parks

By Shellie LeetePosted October 18, 2019
If you love the great outdoors and sharing it online, then you'll want to see which parks are top posts on Instagram.
Stand in awe as the sun peeks over the mountains at Grayson Highlands State Park by @timtullyphotography 

5 Photos of Virginia That Make You Excited It's Fall

By Shellie LeetePosted October 02, 2019
Fall is a spectacular time to visit a Virginia State Park, we don't need to tell you, it's better if we show you.
A quiet walk in the woods with crisp leaves underfoot is an ideal way to celebrate fall

5 Parks Your Dog Will Love

By Shellie LeetePosted August 09, 2019
Dogs love Virginia State Parks, and we're luck they like to drag us along for the ride.
A quiet walk in the woods at Twin Lakes State Park, Va

10 things to know about pets in Virginia State Parks

By Shellie LeetePosted July 16, 2019
It's rare to find a state park system anywhere in America that is as pet friendly as Virginia.
Your pets are allowed to visit all of our parks, just follow these basic safety guidelines

5 Incredible Parks for a Day Hike in Western Virginia

By Shellie LeetePosted July 10, 2019
Escape the crowds and hit one of these scenic hiking trails in western Virginia, you'll thank yourself for it later.
Experience hiking in the highest part of Virginia at Grayson Highlands State Park, jaw dropping scenery at every turn

4 Reasons These Two Smaller Parks are Big on Fun

By Shellie LeetePosted May 28, 2019
Three lakes in Central Virginia at only two small parks, this sounds like the beginnings of good summer fun.
Twin Lakes State Park has been a favorite in Central Virginia with two lakes of fun: Goodwin Lake and Prince Edward Lake


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