Do you want to get outside and learn a new skill but need help getting started? Look no further than Virginia State Parks’ Let’s Go Adventures.
Let’s Go Adventures features a series of programs led by our expert rangers on camping, kayaking, hiking, fly fishing, orienteering and archery.
When you attend a class, you’ll learn about the basics of the activity, including selecting the proper equipment and how to use it, Leave No Trace Principles, park etiquette and safety guidelines.
So, not only will you walk away with a new skill, but you will also leave with the confidence needed to recreate at Virginia State Parks.
The Let’s Go Adventures programs are held year-round, giving you the chance to explore different parks and landscapes across Virginia
You can check out the 2024 schedule, learn more about the programs and meet your instructors below. If you have questions about a specific program, please contact the park that’s hosting the class. General questions can be sent to parksletsgo@dcr.virginia.gov.
Please note: Except for Let’s Go Kayaking, which costs $15 per person, the programs are free to attend. Regular park admission fees apply.
Meet your instructors
Sarah King
Bay Experience Educator Sarah King has over 10 years of experience as an outdoor educator and park interpreter, helping visitors to appreciate and enjoy public lands, from Shenandoah National Park to Vancouver Regional Parks, BC Canada.
Diego Riffle
Bay Experience Educator Diego Riffle has had a passion for all things outdoors since his youth. Growing up fishing, kayaking and camping throughout Texas and now across Virginia, Diego has been helping people explore the Chesapeake Bay for two years.
Sammy Zambon
Visitor Experience Specialist Sammy Zambon has been paddling canoes recreationally for 40 years. He's been a canoe and kayak guide and instructor with state parks for more than 20 years.
Let’s Go Adventures Instructor Credentials: NAI Certified Interpretive Guide, Leave No Trace Level I Instructor, USA Archery Level I Instructor, American Canoe Association Level II Kayak Instructor
Let's Go Adventures Program Descriptions and Schedule
Have you ever wanted to try camping but didn't because it all seems so confusing and expensive? The Let's Go Adventures staff will guide you through the basics of camping in a Virginia State Park. Get answers to questions like, “How do I select and set up a tent?” “What do I need to make my campsite comfortable?” “What are the rules and etiquette for safe camping?” “How do I make a reservation to camp?” Bring your questions and take the first steps into a lifetime of adventures. This program is 1 to 2 hours long. It is limited to 20 participants.
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Oct. 12: Let’s Go Camping at Fall Farm Days at Sky Meadows, offered on an ongoing basis, 11 a.m.-4 p.m.
Take your first steps on the path to adventure. Hiking is a year-round activity that you can enjoy with friends, family, a k-9 companion or on your own. The Let's Go Adventures staff will introduce you to the equipment and skills needed to hit the trails safely. Discover what to carry in your pack, what other gear you might need, how to read a map and proper trail etiquette. This program is 1 to 2 hours long and limited to 20 participants.
Paddling a kayak gives you a new perspective of the world. Paddling safely opens the floodgates to a lifetime of adventures. This 8-hour class will cover the basics of paddling skills, including how to select and fit a PFD, different types of kayaks, planning and safety, and proper paddling strokes. Participants will practice in-water rescues and should be prepared to get wet. Participants should bring lunch, snacks, plenty of water, sunscreen and a change of clothing. Please wear comfortable clothes and close-toed shoes that can get wet/muddy. We will provide all paddles, PFDs and boats. Space is limited to 10 participants and costs $15 per person. The age requirement is 10+ years old.
10 and 2, 10 and 2, get into the rhythm of fly fishing. The Let's Go Adventures staff will introduce you to the basics: how to select a rod and reel combo, knot tying and selecting the right fly for conditions and species. You will practice the different types of casting techniques and then get your flies wet as we try to catch your first fish. All equipment is provided except for waders. Please bring waders or clothing/shoes that are appropriate for getting wet, as well as clothing to change into after the program. A valid Virginia Fishing License is required for participants 16 and older. This program is ideal for participants 10 and older. Group size is limited to five participants per instructor. This program is 3 to 4 hours long.
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Sept. 29: Let’s Go Fly Fishing at Seven Bends, 9 a.m.-12 p.m. & 2-5 p.m. Registration required.
Put away your smartphone and plot a course for adventure with this introduction to the sport of orienteering. The Let's Go Adventures staff will show you the basics of reading maps, pacing distances and navigating cross country. Are you up to the challenge of navigating our orienteering course? This 1-to-2-hour program is limited to 20 participants. The age requirement is 10+ years old.
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Sept. 14: Let’s Go Orienteering at Widewater, 11 a.m.-1 p.m. & 2-4 p.m. (second session is adults only)
Robin Hood, Katniss Everdeen, and Hawkeye are fictional archers with real-world skills. Will you take up the bow and try your hand at the sport of archery? The Let's Go Adventures staff will show you the basics of archery, including finding your draw length, proper safety and shooting techniques, and more. All equipment is provided. This 1-to-2-hour program is limited to 12 participants. The age requirement is 10+ years old.
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Oct. 5: Let's Go on an Archery Adventure at Widewater, 11 a.m.-1 p.m. & 2-4 p.m. (second session is adults only) Registration required.
