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.

Vernal Pool Walk and Talk

Location of Raymond R.

Where

Raymond R. "Andy" Guest, Jr. Shenandoah River State Park, 350 Daughter of Stars Dr., Bentonville, VA 22610.
Cottonwood Trailhead

When

April 2, 2023. 10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.

The appearance of frogs and salamanders are a sure sign of spring. Vernal pools, shallow pools of water that dry in the summer heat, provide a place for some very special amphibians to lay their eggs before returning to the land for the remainder of the year. Join a Virginia Master Naturalist expert on a visit to a vernal pool as we search for signs of these unique species.

Meet at the Cottonwood trailhead, next to the Massanutten shelter. Plan to walk the Cottonwood trail loop, about a two mile hike. Dress appropriately for the weather and bring polarized sunglasses and binoculars if possible. In case of bad weather, the walk will be canceled and a short program will be held at the Visitor Center.

Green egg masses covered in jelly float in a leafy vernal pool.

Other details

Standard parking or admission fee applies: Yes.
Extra fee: No.
Registration required: No.
Children welcome: Yes.
Phone: 540-622-6840
Email Address: ShenandoahRiver@dcr.virginia.gov