Fire Building at Kids Love Parks Fair

Location of James River State Park in Virginia

Where

Program Location: Ampitheatre
Main Park Address: James River State Park, 104 Green Hill Dr., Gladstone, VA 24553.

When

May 16, 2026. 11:15 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.

Spark your curiosity at our Fire Building station! Here, young adventurers can explore how fire shapes our world and learn the basics of safely creating and controlling it. Our interpreter will walk you through several beginner-friendly fire-building methods, including how to use a magnesium bar fire starter, and yes, you’ll get to try it yourself!

This hands-on activity is designed to teach important outdoor skills in a fun and engaging way. Whether you’ve never built a fire before or you’re excited to learn a new technique, this is a great chance to experiment, ask questions, and discover what it takes to turn a tiny spark into a working flame.

Please meet at the Amphitheatre. All materials provided. Suitable for all ages. Wear appropriate clothing and shoes for the weather and bring a water bottle with you. Parks are for everyone, please let us know if you need special accommodation.

For more information, please call (434) 933-8527 or email Tess.Himelspach@dcr.virginia.gov.

Know Before You Go: Before your visit, find the most up to date health and safety information here.

photo of a campfire

About National Kids to Parks Day

Virginia State Parks celebrates National Kids to Parks Day on the third Saturday in May by offering a variety of fun, family-friendly activities, from nature scavenger hunts and ranger-led hikes to fishing clinics and flora and fauna wagon rides. This annual event encourages kids to explore the outdoors while learning about wildlife and engaging in hands-on environmental education.

Other details

Standard parking or admission fee applies: Yes.
Extra fee: No.
Registration required: No.
Children welcome: Yes.
Phone: 434-933-4355
Email Address: JamesRiver@dcr.virginia.gov