Open fires are prohibited throughout the park from midnight to 4 p.m., beginning Feb. 15 through April 30, per the 4 p.m. Burning Law. This includes wood and charcoal. Gas is permissible. Campground fires are allowed during the restricted time if a camp host is on duty and signage to that effect is posted in the campground. Failure to observe the 4 p.m. Burning Law can result in a fine. Contact the Park Office for additional information.

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4 Virginia State Parks within 1 hour of Charlottesville

By Starr AndersonPosted September 10, 2024

Whether you enjoy hiking, boating, biking, fishing or simply relaxing, Bear Creek Lake, James River, Lake Anna and Powhatan state parks are all within an hour’s drive of Charlottesville, making them perfect for day trips or weekend getaways.

Rehabilitated Bald Eagle #24-0336 released at Kiptopeke State Park

By Kim WellsPosted September 04, 2024

After rehabilitation at the Wildlife Center of Virginia, a female Bald Eagle was released at Kiptopeke State Park. Kiptopeke State Park is the perfect location based on where the bird was found and where it will thrive once released.

9 hikes for non-hikers

By Christen McKeyPosted September 03, 2024

Do you enjoy being outdoors but find that conquering high-mileage or strenuous trails is not your way to recreate? Let these nine hikes inspire your next outdoor adventure and discover that hiking at Virginia State Parks can be a walk in the park!

The inside scoop to hiking the Sky Meadows loop

By Laura SchliesskePosted August 29, 2024

One of the most popular hikes at Sky Meadows State Park, sometimes referred to as “the Sky Meadows loop,” is not a single loop trail, but is comprised of several trails strung together to create a 5-mile trek. Read on to get the “inside scoop."

A trail map of Sky Meadows State Park overlayed with orange highlight over a designated loop of trails and a circle in the upper right corner that reads "See blog for a guide to the Sky Meadows loop."

5 things to experience at Sailor’s Creek Battlefield State Park

By Kim WellsPosted August 22, 2024

Sailor's Creek Battlefield State Park offers so much more than just a history lesson. This location is perfect for enjoying plants, flowers and viewing birds and wildlife as well as taking in the many programs and events offered throughout the year.

Natural Bridge installs RightHear Accessibility system for guests who are blind or have low vision

By Starr AndersonPosted August 21, 2024

Natural Bridge State Park, home to the iconic 200-foot Natural Bridge, has become the first state park in the U.S. to install the RightHear Accessibility system, taking a pioneering step toward inclusivity.

S’More fun for Girl Scouts at Virginia State Parks

By Christen MillerPosted August 15, 2024

Girl Scouts and Virginia State Parks go together like chocolate, marshmallows, and graham crackers! Celebrating, exploring, and discovering nature has been part of Girl Scouting since its beginning.

Ranger Lauri Schular at Lake Anna State Park hosted Girl Scout Troop 603 for camping, stewardship, and fun.

Echoes of Valor: The Civil War Combat at Farmville, VA in 1865

By Guest BloggerPosted August 15, 2024

Virginia State Parks offer so much history in addition to the recreational activities. High Bridge Trail is known for its High Bridge, but it also contains a rich history that the rangers are always looking to share with the public.

3 must-do activities at Clinch River State Park

By Starr AndersonPosted August 13, 2024

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.

A group camping conversation: How to organize a trip that everyone will love

By Christen McKeyPosted August 12, 2024

Interested in planning a camping trip for a large group but not sure where to begin? This conversation with a group leader who recently organized a James River State Park trip may inspire you to pull off an epic outdoor adventure for your group.