Department of Conservation and Recreation
Conserve. Protect. Enjoy.
Department of Conservation and Recreation
results in following insights.
Some rare plant species wait underwater until conditions allow them to grow. READ MORE
The updated High Bridge Trail Master Plan outlines a long-term vision and phased improvements to enhance access, safety and visitor experience along the 32-mile rail-trail, guiding development and resource protection over the next 30 years. READ MORE
Dedicated rangers and staff of Virginia State Parks, along with DCR law enforcement officers, were included in the inauguration parade for Virginia’s 75th governor. READ MORE
Staff scientists rediscover plants not seen in decades and new populations of rare species. READ MORE
DCR celebrates ongoing progress and improvements in 2025. Through expansion of and increased access to public lands, preservation of history, improvements to conservation planning and more, DCR continues to carry out its mission to Conserve, Protect and Enjoy. Here are some highlights from the past year. READ MORE
It’s not every day that a park expands by 20% with the potential of increasing recreational activities. However, Caledon State Park has reached that milestone this year by acquiring Lake Caledon.. READ MORE
The Virginia State Parks system has expanded to 44 parks with the opening of Hayfields State Park on Oct. 20. READ MORE
Grayson Highlands State Park recently expanded its protected boundaries with the acquisition of two new parcels of land. These additions not only increase the park's total acreage to 4,518 acres but also enhance efforts to preserve the region's unique ecosystems, scenic beauty and diverse wildlife habitats. READ MORE
The highly anticipated visitor center at High Bridge Trail State Park has opened with a ribbon cutting ceremony on April 7. The new center is a part of the park's master plan and has been something that the staff and guests have been eagerly awaiting. READ MORE
The DCR SAR Team was established in 2018. READ MORE
