Open fires are prohibited throughout the park from midnight to 4 p.m., Feb. 15 through April 30. Learn more.
Read Our Blogs
3 must-do activities at Clinch River State Park
Posted April 22, 2026
Clinch River State Park is a hidden gem perfect for immersing yourself in nature. While it is under development, that doesn't mean this 640-acre, and growing, day-use park shouldn't be on your list of places to explore.
5 must-do activities at New River Trail State Park
Posted April 21, 2026
New River Trail State Park is a go-to destination for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers. This 57-mile linear park follows an abandoned railroad along the historic New River, offering one-of-a-kind views and a range of recreational opportunities.
Protecting Virginia's Dark Sky Parks from light pollution
Posted April 13, 2026
Virginia is home to five International Dark Sky Parks, four of which are state parks. They earned their designations from DarkSky International for their exceptional quality of starry nights. However, light pollution is a growing concern.
Clinch River State Park: An update on Virginia's first blueway state park
Posted April 07, 2026
Clinch River State Park continues to make exciting steps as it develops into Virginia's first blueway state park, blending river-based recreation and land conservation in a way no other state park in the commonwealth has done before.
Bikepacking New River Trail State Park: Q&A with Misty Prewitt
Posted April 02, 2026
Bikepacking along New River Trail State Park offers an immersive outdoor experience for riders of all skill levels. If you're not sure how to get started with planning, check out our Q&A with experienced bikepacker Misty Prewitt.
Trail etiquette on Virginia State Parks' rails-to-trails
Posted March 25, 2026
Virginia State Parks features four rail-to-trail systems, each offering accessible, scenic routes with gentle grades ideal for walkers, runners, cyclists, e-bike riders, and, except at Staunton River Battlefield, horseback riders.
Virginia’s bats: Hibernation, migration and how you can help them
Posted March 16, 2026
As spring arrives, Virginia’s bats are on the move. Some are waking from hibernation, while others are returning home. Whether they’ve spent winter in caves or stayed active in warmer regions, this season is critical for their survival.
Bears are waking up: What you need to know for a safe visit
Posted March 09, 2026
As winter fades and spring approaches, Virginia's black bears begin emerging from their winter dens. This seasonal shift is an exciting time in our parks, but it's also a time to be prepared and respectful of wildlife.
A legacy refreshed: Renovations at Douthat Lodge
Posted February 03, 2026
The Douthat Lodge, built by the Civilian Conservation Corps in the 1930s, will welcome visitors once again this spring following extensive renovations. The work was part of a three-phase project to upgrade Douthat's CCC-era log cabins.
Virginia State Parks' Ranger Conservation Corps
Posted December 29, 2025
If you’ve ever thought, “I wish I could get paid to hang out in a state park,” then guess what? You can. Virginia State Parks is accepting application for its new internship program, Ranger Conservation Corps.
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