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

Read Our Blogs

Category "Canoeing and Kayaking"Clear results in following blogs.

5 must-do activities at Raymond R. "Andy" Guest, Jr. Shenandoah River State Park

By Starr AndersonPosted March 24, 2025
Shenandoah River State Park is a hidden gem. With stunning river views, diverse trails and a variety of educational programs, this 1,600-acre park is a perfect destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers of all ages.
Kayaking on the Shenandoah River

Fishing at Virginia State Parks

By Kim WellsPosted March 20, 2025
Whether you prefer fishing in lakes, rivers, creeks, oceans or the bay, there are plenty of places to cast your line at a Virginia State Park. To enjoy more time on the water be sure to book your stay in a cabin, campground, yurt or lodge.
Kayak fishing at Bear Creek Lake

5 parks to explore within an hour of Roanoke

By Starr AndersonPosted March 17, 2025
In addition to its own opportunities for connecting with nature, Roanoke provides you with easy access to five Virginia State Parks: Claytor Lake, Douthat, Fairy Stone, Smith Mountain Lake and Natural Bridge.
Virginia State Parks

5 things to experience at Mason Neck State Park

By Kim WellsPosted March 13, 2025
Located in Northern Virginia with recreational access to the water as well as seasonal programs. This park is perfect for adventure or for a quiet getaway from the daily grind
Aerial view of Mason Neck State Park

5 must-do activities at Claytor Lake State Park

By Starr AndersonPosted March 12, 2025
Claytor Lake State Park is a go-to destination for water enthusiasts. Its 4,500-acre lake offers roughly 4 miles of lake frontage, including a sandy beach. While the water draws many people in, it’s not all this park offers.
Claytor Lake

5 must-do activities at Fairy Stone State Park

By Starr AndersonPosted March 10, 2025
Fairy Stone State Park is the perfect destination if you’re looking for a mountain getaway. While this 4,741-acre park is known for its unique fairy stones and sandy beach on Fairy Stone Lake, this Southwest Virginia gem has a lot more to offer.
Fairy Stones

5 must-do activities at Hungry Mother State Park

By Starr AndersonPosted March 03, 2025
Hungry Mother State Park is a go-to destination for nature lovers. With 3,334 acres of scenic woodlands, a 108-acre lake and abundant activities for visitors of all ages, it’s easy to see why this park has been a favorite since 1936.
Molly

5 must-do activities at Smith Mountain Lake State Park

By Starr AndersonPosted February 26, 2025
Smith Mountain Lake State Park has something for every kind of outdoor enthusiast. From water sports to peaceful nature trails, its array of adventures makes it a perfect destination for families, couples and solo explorers.
Boat rentals at Smith Mountain Lake State Park

What it’s like to do an adventure race at a Virginia state park

By Haley RodgersPosted February 04, 2025
Park regulars participated in an all-women’s adventure race at Occoneechee State Park. Read what an adventure race is, what it's like to participate, what you get out of it and how it helps you explore the park system.
Race team and longtime ”bike-buddies” Betty Saxman (left), Veronica Salazar (middle) and Incy Teoh (right).   Photo courtesy of Incy Teoh.

5 ways to spend more time in nature in 2025

By Starr AndersonPosted December 26, 2024
If your New Year’s resolution is to spend more time outside this year, look no further than Virginia State Parks. With 43 unique parks from the Cumberland Gap to the Atlantic Ocean, the opportunities for outdoor adventures are endless.
Douthat State Park


Older posts →

By Park