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

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

We asked the first person to complete our Wandering Waters Paddle Quest program to tell us about her experience wandering the waters of 31 Virginia State Parks. For completing the program, Colleen Renderos received her Master Paddler certificate.

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.

Staunton River State Park is a great place to escape to the great outdoors with family and friends. The park is open year-round, and you can make overnight reservations for camping and cabins up to 11 months in advance.