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Wintertime at Pocahontas State Park

By Kim WellsPosted February 02, 2026
Bundle up and explore Pocahontas State Park! From winter hikes and Jr. Ranger fun to stargazing and archery, there’s something for everyone. Check “Know Before You Go” for updates and make the most of the season outdoors.
Pocahontas sign in the snow

Spring burning restrictions February 15 through April 30

By Nancy HeltmanPosted January 29, 2026
Per state law, open fires are prohibited in all Virginia State Parks from midnight until 4 p.m., February 15 through April 30. Find out about the one exception in this blog.
We obey the law when it comes to burn bans at Virginia State Parks to help prevent wildfires

Widewater welcomes winter with wonder

By Kim WellsPosted January 23, 2026
Widewater State Park is more than just a summer destination as this park's location is ideal for winter birdwatching and hiking adventures. Located on a peninsula, the park is designed for fun adventures all year long.
Widewater State Park sign

How to enjoy Virginia State Parks in winter

By Guest BloggerPosted December 31, 2025
How can we make the most of the winter season? Whether at home or in a park, we can explore nature! By taking a hike, creating a nature craft or playing in the snow, we can experience winter to the fullest.
A branch covered in icicles with a mountain overlook out of focus in the background and a bright blue sky above

Virginia birds in "The 12 Days of Christmas"

By Guest BloggerPosted December 23, 2025
Winter is a great time for birding in Virginia. Participate in the Christmas Bird Count or simply go looking for winter wildlife on your own. Find out which Virginia birds you should be on the look out for this time of year.
A medium size bird on a dead tree, surrounded by pine trees. It

5 ways to spend more time in nature in 2026

By Starr AndersonPosted December 22, 2025
If your New Year's resolution is to spend more time outside this year, look no further than Virginia State Parks. With 44 unique parks from the Cumberland Gap to the Atlantic Ocean, the opportunities for outdoor adventures are endless.
Douthat State Park

5 favorite cozy cabins for winter

By Guest BloggerPosted December 18, 2025
A winter getaway is a great way to mentally clear out the year-end junk and prepare for a bright new year ahead. Fortunately, we have hundreds of cabins at Virginia State Parks for that needed escape.
Fairy Stone State Park becomes a winter wonderland in the snow

Winter wildlife adventures at Virginia State Parks

By Kim WellsPosted December 15, 2025
Wintertime is the perfect time to view wildlife at a Virginia State Park. Enjoy a ranger-led or self-guided program that showcases the birds and wildlife that reside at the park. Bring your binoculars so you can better view these stunning animals.
Tundra Swans at Mason Neck

5 activities for visiting Claytor Lake State Park this winter

By Starr AndersonPosted December 10, 2025
When most people think of visiting Claytor Lake State Park, they picture warm summer days filled with boating and swimming. But if you come during winter, you’ll experience a quieter side of the park that’s well worth the visit.
Claytor Lake State Park

Planning a winter getaway to James River State Park

By Starr AndersonPosted December 08, 2025
Whether you're an avid outdoor enthusiast or someone seeking a peaceful escape, James River State Park has something to offer everyone during the winter months. So, bundle up, pack your sense of adventure and head to James River.
Tye River Overlook


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