Ten years ago, we shared the news that your next visit to a Virginia State Park could be free when it starts at the library. We were excited to launch a wonderful partnership between the Library of Virginia and Virginia State Parks.

Nearly every public library in Virginia offers a nature backpack available for families to check out and learn about nature in their backyard, local park, or at one of Virginia’s 44 state parks. 

Nature journaling with a Virginia State Parks library backpack 

Kids explore parks for free with nature backpacks from the Library of Virginia

This project was made possible in part by the Institute of Museum and Library Services grant to the Library of Virginia. The Institute of Museum and Library Services is the primary source of federal support for the nation’s libraries and  museums. The Institute of Museum and Library Services supports a diverse set of Priority Areas spanning social, cultural, educational, scientific and historical information.

NATURE PROGRAMS

Virginia State Parks offer a great lineup of outdoor, nature, and natural history educational programs throughout the year. You may enjoy stargazing and astronomy, arts and crafts, canoeing, fishing, and even self-guided programs like geocaching and fun scavenger hunts.

To find a park program, search our events database here.

MORE WAYS TO VISIT FOR FREE

Did you know that with any regular day parking pass you can visit as many state parks as you wish for that same day? And if you're staying overnight, you have free access to any park during the range of time on your hang tag. 

For example, when you visit Hungry Mother State Park, you can also use your hang tag to visit other nearby parks like Grayson Highlands State Park and New River Trail State Park on the same day (or duration of your stay if you are lodging in the park, camping or cabins). 

Free Park Days with a Virginia State Parks License Plate

Did you know that a Virginia State Parks license plate lets you visit a Virginia State Park at no charge on selected days each year? Those days are:

• January 1
• Earth Day
• Arbor Day
• Kids to Parks Day
• Virginia State Parks Anniversary Day (June 15)
• Veterans Day
• Opt-Outside Day (Day after Thanksgiving).

Find out how to order a Virginia State Parks license plate here