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Experience a Star Party at Staunton River State Park

By Guest BloggerPosted September 09, 2025
Find out what it's like to attend a star party and why you should plan to attend one at Virginia State Parks. Staunton River State Park is one of our four Dark Sky Parks that host star parties that are out of this world.
A nighttime photo with stars shining above an half orange sky as the sunsets over Staunton River State Park

Hiking safety and trail etiquette in Virginia State Parks

By Starr AndersonPosted September 08, 2025
Whether you're a seasoned hiker or just starting out, knowing how to stay safe and respect the trail ensures a better experience for everyone.
Hiking at Virginia State Parks

Becoming a law enforcement ranger with Virginia State Parks

By Starr AndersonPosted September 03, 2025
Virginia State Parks are places where families make memories, history is preserved and nature is protected. Ensuring the safety of visitors and the conservation of these lands is the responsibility of a a dedicated team of law enforcement rangers.
Virginia State Parks Ranger

The importance of keeping your dog on a leash

By Kim WellsPosted August 25, 2025
If you have a dog, then you should understand how important it is to have them on leash. It's not just for their safety, but for the other park guests as well. Whether you have a calm dog or a reactive dog, the rules must be followed.
Dog on leash at Kiptopeke

5 things to experience at Caledon State Park

By Kim WellsPosted August 05, 2025
Caledon State Park is the perfect place to enjoy some peace and quiet just outside of Northern Virginia. The trails are ideal for hiking, biking and birdwatching and the scenic overlook of the Potomac is something you will want to experience.
Caledon aerial

Field trip and homeschooling opportunities at Virginia State Parks

By Starr AndersonPosted August 05, 2025
Virginia is home to a diverse array of state parks, each offering unique natural landscapes, rich history and hands-on educational experiences, making them perfect extensions of the classroom.
Douthat State Park

A Shenandoah road trip: Shenandoah River, Seven Bends and Sky Meadows

By Christen McKeyPosted July 29, 2025
With the Shenandoah River as a centerpiece and three state parks within an hour’s drive from one another, there are many reasons to make a trip to this northwestern part of the state. Learn how to enjoy all three of these state parks.
View from Cullers Overlook

Christmas in July: Top 5 Virginia State Parks gifts

By Starr AndersonPosted July 29, 2025
Christmas in July is the perfect time to beat the heat and get a head start on your gift list. Whether you're shopping for the outdoorsy type, a parks superfan here are our top 5 gifts at Virginia State Parks.
Virginia State Parks outline design

Saving the eastern hellbender and how to see one at a Virginia State Park

By Starr AndersonPosted July 14, 2025
The eastern hellbender is North America's largest salamander. Unfortunately, the future of the this aquatic giant is uncertain due to habitat loss from damming, sedimentation from logging and mining, agricultural runoff, pollution and flooding.
Hellbender

Oyster Reefs on the York River

By John GreshamPosted July 14, 2025
There is a growing oyster reef along York River State Park's living shoreline.
Reef ready oysters


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