Open fires are prohibited throughout the park from midnight to 4 p.m., now through April 30. Learn more.
What's happening this month in Virginia State Parks
February
February is a great time to visit state parks and appreciate the beauty of nature. It's also the time to celebrate Black History Month and honor the contributions of African Americans throughout history. Additionally, Valentine's Day falls in February, making it a popular time for couples to enjoy romantic getaways. And if anyone "pops the question," a park is a special place to get married. If you're a bird enthusiast, February is a great month for birding as many species begin to migrate back to their summer breeding grounds. You can join in on the Great Backyard Bird Count at many events that are happening.
Black History Month Events:
Feb. 13, 2025. 11 a.m. - 1 p.m.
Sailor's Creek Battlefield State Park
Join us at Sailor's Creek Battlefield, as we celebrate Black History Month with the program "Follow the Drinking Gourd." We will begin with a short lecture at the Visitor Center on the Underground Railroad, highlighting the pioneers of that era and their remarkable strength in overcoming challenges.
Feb. 15, 2025. 10 a.m - 12 p.m.
York River State Park
How did African slavery begin in the Virginia Colony and did they seek freedom from their condition? Did any European indentured servants and Native Americans resist their lot as well? Walking with us you will discover stories of rebellious conspiracies and courageous runaways and how they overcame the challenging terrain of Tidewater Virginia to elude their oppressors.
Feb. 22, 2025. 12 - 2 p.m.
Pocahontas State Park
In recognition of Black History Month, join the Pocahontas State Park staff on a van trip to 'Group Camp 7', one of most serene areas in the park. Learn about how the land was segregated, the groups that utilized the area, and the history of exclusion in recreational spaces.
Feb. 8 & 22, 2025. 2 - 3 p.m.
Twin Lakes State Park
During this one-mile trek, a ranger will guide you through this journey through time on Goodwin Lake Trail. Although rated easy, this trail may not be suitable for those with strollers or severe mobility issues.
Great Backyard Bird Count Events:
Help scientists research birds right in your own backyard as we participate in the international bird count hosted by the Audubon Society, The Cornell Lab of Ornithology, and Bird Studies of Canada. Read More
Feb. 15, 2025. 10 - 11 a.m.
Twin Lakes State Park
Kick off the Great Backyard Bird Count with a short hike led by a ranger! Join us to explore local bird habitats, learn tips for spotting feathered friends, and contribute to this exciting citizen science event. You don't have to be an expert to participate in and enjoy birding. It’s a fun and educational way to connect with nature and start counting!
Feb. 15, 2025. 10 a.m. - 4 p.m.
Bear Creek Lake State Park
Because of its wide range of habitats that support many bird species, Bear Creek Lake State Park is the perfect place to come birding and participate in the Great Backyard Bird Count. We invite you to come visit Bear Creek Lake State Park and take part in a ranger-led introductory level birdwatching walk for about 90 minutes over several park trails.
Feb. 14-17, 2025. Various times.
New River Trail State Park
New River Trail State Park has more than 127 bird species; you're sure to see waterfowl, songbirds, and the occasional Bald Eagle and Osprey. Help us research the birds along the New River Trail as we participate in this international bird count hosted by the Audubon Society and the Cornell Lab of Ornithology.
Feb. 15 & 16, 2025. Various times
Caledon State Park
Connect to birds, to nature, and with each other! Birds are everywhere, all the time, doing fascinating things. Join us at Caledon on February 15 & 16 when the world comes together for the love of birds.
Feb. 14, 2025. 10 a.m. - 12 p.m.
Fairy Stone State Park
Join us on Valentine's Day to observe the birds around us, using the ebird and Merlin Bird ID apps. We'll search for birds using Merlin and record them using eBird. Don't forget to bring your binoculars!
Feb. 15, 2025. 5:30 - 6:30 p.m.
Powhatan State Park
Have you ever seen a timberdoodle dance in the twilight sky? The American Woodcock, also known as the timberdoodle, is forest-dwelling bird that looks like it should live at the beach. In late winter to very early spring, if weather conditions are right, there is a chance of hearing the males' loud calls at dusk and seeing their amazing 300-foot “sky dance” mating spectacle. It's truly a wonderful spectacle to behold!
Valentine's Day Events
What’s better than Valentine’s Day? National Galentine’s Day! Bring your gal pals to the park for a guided hike along our Bluebell Trail.
Enjoy an evening of painting at the Cove Ridge Center. Join rangers as they walks you through creating a nature themed painting. You will have the unique opportunity of using a "tree cookie" as your canvas.
Join us at the park to celebrate Valentine’s Day with a new twist. We’ll be taking a look at “romance” from a wildlife perspective.
Explore an enchanting Valentine's Day evening amidst the rolling Blue Ridge Mountains as the sun sets and the world transitions from day to night!
Connect under the stars on this ranger-led hike through the night. This walk through the forest will be focused on animals in love and hopefully provide chances to greet our nocturnal friends.
Feb. 14, 2025. 10 a.m. - 3 p.m.
Shenandoah River State Park
Love is in the air! Join us for a full-day nature retreat. We'll be hosting some of our favorite programs but with a Valentine’s Day twist. This program is open to couples and individual nature lovers 16+. The cost is $5 per person, advanced registration required.
Feb. 15, 2025. 3 - 5 p.m.
Claytor Lake State Park
Craft your way into the heart of nature at Claytor Lake State Park for Valentine's Day. Celebrate love and creativity with heart-shaped bird seed feeders, cute pine cone love bug crafts, and Valentine coloring sheets.
More Events
Feb. 1, 2025. 2:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m.
Pocahontas State Park
Feb. 2, 2025. 1:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m.
Caledon State Park
Feb. 8, 2025. 1 - 3 p.m.
Feb. 23, 2025. 10 a.m. - 2 p.m.
Chippokes State Park
Feb. 15 & 16, 2025. 1 - 3 p.m.
Shenandoah River State Park
Feb. 22 & 23, 2025. 9 a.m. - 3 p.m.
High Bridge Trail State Park
Feb. 25, 2025. 6 - 8 p.m.
Sweet Run State Park
Feb. 24, 2025 - Aug. 4, 2025.
First Landing State Park
