Open fires are prohibited throughout the park from midnight to 4 p.m., now through April 30. Learn more.
Read Our Blogs
A state park wedding: Naturally beautiful, naturally budget-friendly
Posted March 26, 2025
Get an inside look into a state park wedding as Courtney Raihall shares insights from her special day. Whether it’s a simple outdoor elopement or an elaborate event, Virginia State Parks offer breathtaking backdrops for any style or budget.
5 must-do activities at Raymond R. "Andy" Guest, Jr. Shenandoah River State Park
Posted 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.
6 ways to spend Earth Day
Posted March 20, 2025
Get inspired to give back on Earth Day! Virginia State Parks are hosting events across the commonwealth for you to attend.
Fishing at Virginia State Parks
Posted 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.
5 must-do activities at Natural Bridge State Park
Posted March 19, 2025
While many visitors come to Natural Bridge State Park to see the bridge for themselves, they quickly learn that this 1,635-acre park has much more to offer, from Dark-Sky programs to hikes with stunning mountain views.
A "heronious" point of view: great blue herons are nesting
Posted March 18, 2025
March is prime time for viewing great blue herons as they are rebuilding their nesting colony on Woodstock Pond.
5 parks to explore within an hour of Roanoke
Posted 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.
What’s new at Sky Meadows State Park?
Posted March 14, 2025
For a park that has been a part of the Virginia State Parks system for more than 40 years and a working farm for more than 200 years, Sky Meadows State Park is keeping things fresh with a new trail and an addition to the campground.
5 things to experience at Mason Neck State Park
Posted 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
5 must-do activities at Claytor Lake State Park
Posted 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.