What's happening this month in Virginia State Parks
July
Happy Independence Day! In addition to this national holiday, the whole month of July offers fun activities for people of all ages. We’ve got camps for kids, conservation events and opportunities to explore the night sky. Do not miss the many upcoming concerts and other music events! Everyone can find something to enjoy in a state park this month.
Events sampler:
Learn about the mighty earth movers beneath your feet and get a tasty treat. Find our rangers in the park and learn some amazing fact about worms all the while making yourself a candy dirt cup.
Starting July 2, various dates in July, 2026. 9 a.m. - 12 p.m.
James River State Park
Experience the James River like never before on this ranger-guided canoe float between Canoe Landing and Dixon Landing! This approximately 2-mile journey takes about two hours, depending on river flow. Along the way, our knowledgeable river guides will share stories of the James River’s history, point out aquatic wildlife and highlight the unique plants and animals that call this area home.
Come with us to experience the beginnings of Bluegrass music and follow its evolution as it traveled across the ocean and settled in the Appalachian Mountains.
July 8, 2026. 12-2 p.m.
Smith Mountain Lake State Park
All aboard the Virginia Dare for a fun-filled and informative lunch cruise and tour down the lake to the dam. On the return trip enjoy a presentation from our park interpretive ranger about the wildlife that call Smith Mountain Lake home. We'll even cruise close to several Osprey platforms on the lake.
Reservations required.
Join us to celebrate these amazing animals during this special series in collaboration with with Bat Conservation & Rescue of Virginia. You'll get a rare chance to come face-to-face with these mysterious creatures, learn all about them from local bat rehabilitators, and identify bats in flight using specialized sound-detecting equipment.
July 11, 2026. 2-4 p.m.
Powhatan State Park
Powhatan State Park
July 12, 2026. 10 a.m. and 1 p.m.
Machicomoco State Park
Machicomoco State Park
If you’ve ever wanted to step into the shoes of Robin Hood, Katniss Everdeen or Hawkeye, Lake Anna welcomes you to try your hand at archery and experience the excitement of mastering real-world skills.
Learn the basics of archery.
July 11, 2026. 9 a.m.-12p.m.
Powhatan State Park
Come experience the beautiful James River on this guided kayak tour with Virginia State Parks' Bay Experience team! The trip includes a brief overview of paddling safety and techniques, as well as on-the-water interpretations of natural and cultural features.
July 25, 2026. 8:00 a.m. - 10:00 a.m.
Mason Neck State Park
Grab your binoculars and get outside. Join Northern Virginia Bird Alliance, NVBA, on an introductory birding walk to discover and identify birds at Mason Neck State Park.
July 4th Events
July 4, 2026. 11-11:30 a.m.
Wilderness Road State Park
The Second Continental Congress ratified the Declaration of Independence, leaving ties to the English crown in ruin and the North American colonies in an open state of rebellion.Join those in Powell’s Valley as word of liberty reaches the western edges of the Virginia colony. Listen as the Declaration echoes throughout the hills and experience an artillery salute for freedom.
July 4, 2026. 2-3 p.m.
Hungry Mother State Park
It's time for Hungry Mother's favorite competition. Let's see which contestants from each age group can spit their seeds the furthest. Prizes, and most importantly - bragging rights for the year, will be awarded to the winners.
Step into America’s past and celebrate 250 years of history with a taste of colonial tradition at Sky Meadows State Park! During this festive hands-on experience, you’ll help crank a historic hand-powered ice cream maker to create flavors inspired by the early days of our nation.
July 4 & 5, 2026. 1-2 p.m.
Sailor's Creek Battlefield State Park
Happy birthday, America! This program explores how the American Civil War was deeply connected to the ideals of the American Revolution.
Join us as we examine how Union soldiers and leaders understood the war as a fight to preserve the nation founded in 1776, and how the conflict ultimately reshaped the meaning of liberty and freedom.
July 4, 2026. 9 and 9:45 p.m.
Shenandoah River State Park
Join us for a glow-in-the-dark wagon ride! Our wagon will be shining bright with our nation's colors as we cross over fields and creeks. You'll be surrounded by the beautiful night sky, the glistening of the moon on the river and the twinkle of a few fireflies. There will be two rides, one at 9 p.m. and one at 9:45 p.m. Registration is required!
