Open fires are prohibited throughout the park from midnight to 4 p.m., Feb. 15 through April 30. Learn more.

Winter Lecture Series: "Caring for the Land-Natural Resource Management Explained"

Location of Smith Mountain Lake State Park in Virginia

Where

Program Location: Discovery Center
Main Park Address: Smith Mountain Lake State Park, 1235 State Park Rd., Huddleston, VA 24104.

When

April 12, 2026. 3:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m.

From the role of ‘good fire’ in restoring forests to the many ways we thoughtfully steward wildlife and habitats, this talk, presented by Mel Perry, highlights how Virginia State Parks keep nature in balance. Attendees will explore key natural resource management practices, including prescribed burns and managed deer hunts. Mel Perry is an Interpretive Ranger at Smith Mountain Lake State Park and holds a B.S. in Environmental Sciences with a concentration in Applied Ecology.

The Winter Lecture Series is presented by the Friends of Smith Mountain Lake State Park. Proceeds go to help fund educational programs and projects in the park. Dates for the 2026 Winter Lecture series include January 11, February 8, March 8, and April 12.

Ticket Prices: Single ticket: $10
Friends of SMLSP Member: Single ticket: $8

Prices include parking. All tickets paid at the door. For more information call: (540) 297-6066.

Ranger Mel Perry, Smith Mountain Lake State Park

Other details

Standard parking or admission fee applies: Yes.
Extra fee: See description for pricing info..
Registration required: No.
Children welcome: Yes.
Phone: 540-297-6066
Email Address: smlake@dcr.virginia.gov