Events in Virginia State Parks

As the fabric of autumn unfolds, the weave of even the water is altered.

Stop by and investigate the variety of flora and fauna found around Smith Mountain Lake.

Is the opossum misunderstood?

Animals may be shy, but they leave plenty of clues behind.

Learn the legend behind the naturally occurring stone cross formations and travel to the special location in the park to search for your own "fairy stone." After a short presentation on what you will be looking for, we will head to the site.

Often on a walk in the woods, we pass by the smaller wonders or fail to hear the language of leaves.

Use the power of the sun to capture the beauty of the park.

Ever wondered how you stack up against some of the largest birds in the sky?

Frogs, crawdads, and children - oh my!

Our beautiful park is the perfect place to pick up a fun new workout routine.

Did you know that people have been using plants to dye fabric for centuries?

This trail begins on Iron Mine Trail and features an iron mine once used by Fayerdale residents, as well as an overlook of Fairy Stone Lake.

Yes, you too can canoe!

Join us at Douthat State Park for Homeschool Naturalists, a monthly outdoor education series designed for homeschool students of all ages.

What swims in the shallows of the Chesapeake Bay?

Have you ever met Junior, the American Snapping turtle or Snoopy, the Eastern Painted turtle?

Explore the life cycle of butterflies.

Why is Virginia's Eastern Shore one of the best hot spots for birdwatching in the whole Western Hemisphere?

"Beavers:  Nature's Engineers" examines the characteristics and habits of North America's largest rodent.  Learn about how beavers alter the environment more than any other creature except humans.  Find out how beavers contributed to the westward expansion as settlers arrived in the New World.  Various items, including a beaver skull, pelt, and examples of wood cuttings, will be displayed.  .

Let's slowwww down and explore the fascinating world above our heads!

Hear the sound of chopping axes as the park naturalists demonstrate how the CCC built the cabins at the park.

Join our rangers in discovering the secrets of the magnificent White-tailed Deer.

Can you recall taking a break on a hot summer day and sitting under the shade of a maple tree, or swinging on a tire swing hung from a giant oak? Trees provide many benefits including food, shelter, and oxygen, to both humans and wildlife.

Come sit in the shade and make your own unique, nature-themed keepsake!

Everyone loves a relaxing evening especially out on Hungry Mother Lake.

Have you ever heard of a pawpaw?

Meet with a ranger and go on a guided hike along the Lakeshore Trail (0.81mi.).

Explore the wonders of the Tutelo Trail with our park interpreter.

Just as caterpillars grow and change, our Caterpillar Club programs are designed to help your little one grow and change.

Stop by and investigate the variety of flora and fauna found around Smith Mountain Lake.

Second only to humans in the ability to change their environment to fit their needs, learn just how smart a beaver can be.

Dragonflies and damselflies sound like something out of a science fiction movie.

Travel through time on this scavenger hunt.

Step into the shoes of an archaeologist and uncover the secrets of an owl’s diet!

Learn the legend behind the naturally occurring stone cross formations and travel to the special location in the park to search for your own "fairy stone." After a short presentation on what you will be looking for, we will head to the site.

Did you know that opossums roamed the earth with the dinosaurs and that raccoons have “hands” like ours? Wonder what other secrets these critters hold? Join us to discover little known facts about these amazing animals and how they benefit humans.

Did you know, Hungry Mother has over 18 miles of trails within the park?

Meet a ranger for a leisurely paced hour walk from the Galax access towards Cliffview.

Play classic Hide-and-Seek with a modern twist!

Discover the “bear facts” about Fairy Stone State Park’s black bears at our ranger-led program. Learn about their characteristics, habits, how to avoid conflicts, and much more.

Slither and splash into the world of reptiles.

The Southwest Virginia Museum Historical State Park is delighted to announce the 2026 fall semester of the WiseJAMS Music Program!

Virginia is home to a healthy population of black bears; do you know what to do if you encounter one?

Come explore the historic town of Fries! A park ranger will share stories of local history and show what remains of the once thriving textile industry.

Ever wondered what critters are crawling beneath the surface of a stream? Join us on a fun adventure as we search the stream for interesting, tiny critters: freshwater invertebrates.

Shine a light on days gone by with a lantern-lit history tour of the Natural Bridge.

The one and only mammal on the planet capable of true flight absolutely loves Hungry Mother.

Take a 4-hour guided tour through Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge and False Cape State Park!

Calling all homeschoolers!

Let us teach you all the basics you'll need to know to get yourself started with one of our most popular outdoor activities, from tying on your hook and tackle to casting your line.

Every autumn, the forests, orchards, and fields of Sweet Run provide a bounty of fruits and nuts that have sustained wildlife and people for generations.

Start your day with a gentle adventure designed especially for young explorers and their families.

Come out of your shell and spend some time getting to know the Eastern Box Turtle.

Take a fascinating hike and discover the rich history of James River State Park, from ancient fossils to the American Civil War and beyond.

Come on out for a ranger lead canoe trip through the beautiful wetlands of York River State Park.

Bring your canine companion and join the B.A.R.K.

What swims in the shallows of the Chesapeake Bay?

Take a closer look at what swims in the James River.

Looking to get hooked on a new hobby?

Black bears are one of the many incredible mammals that dwell in Douthat State Park.

This historical building tour is designed to highlight the architecture of the time, designs, furnishings, special touches, ornate decor, and stories within the walls of the Jones-Stewart Mansion.

What do you think of when you hear term wildlife?

Dive into the history of the Occaneechi Tribe that once called Occoneechee State Park home.

Ever wondered what a skunk’s fur feels like, or how big a bobcat’s skull really is?

The rangers will have a variety of craft materials available so you can let your creativity flow like Swift Creek. This program encourages artistic expression, enhances fine motor skills and encourages teamwork.

Learn the legend behind the naturally occurring stone cross formations and travel to the special location in the park to search for your own "fairy stone." After a short presentation on what you will be looking for, we will head to the site.

We would like to introduce you to “Boxer” the box turtle.

With over two thousand acres, the park has a wide variety of life in the wetlands and woods.  Meet with our rangers who will help you discover the aquatic, insect, mammal, and plant life in the park’s ecosystems.

Meet Gertie and Birdie, our Educational Ambassadors, and interact with our knowledgeable rangers while they care for these beloved critters.

Have you ever tried archery or mountain biking or fly fishing?

The library is coming to the park!

Learn how Mother Nature can both inspire and help you create your next masterpiece.

Toads, Turtles, and Snakes - Oh my!

What does making a fire and baking have in common?

What lurks in the leaves below the surface?  Join us in searching for the many types of critters that call Long Pond home!

Did you know 'creepy crawlies' are some of the world's most important recyclers?

Ever wondered what stories Douthat State Park holds?

Ever wondered what happened at Kiptopeke before it became a state park?

Did you know there was once a thriving "boom town" located where our lake is today?

Just because we don’t always spot them, we know the animals are around by the tracks and traces they leave behind.

When a tree falls in the forest, what happens next?

Have you ever pet an otter before?

Stop by for a sneak peek into the developing Virginia State Park's B.A.R.K Ranger program and upcoming dog-focused events at Belle Isle.

Expand your survival skills by learning how to build a fire!

Try your hand at reeling in some fun with Backyard Bass, an interactive casting game designed for visitors of all ages.

Join us for a relaxing evening of learning and marshmallow roasting.

Virginia is home to a very smart, and often mischievous animal, Ursus americanus, or the American Black Bear.

End your week with a relaxing guided paddle along Swift Creek Lake.

Frankly my dear, you can build a dam.

Enjoy the beautiful park setting as you are entertained by some of our very own local musicians.

Start your weekend off right with s’mores and more!

Join us at the Community Fire Ring to relax, enjoy a roasted marshmallow, and get to know your camping neighbors.

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.

What's a camping trip without a campfire?

Looking for a family-friendly way to extend your summer fun?

Come join the party!

Watch the last traces of daylight strike the Blue Ridge Mountains on this haywagon ride.

Want to explore the New River Trail in a different light?

Welcome to Staunton River State Park!

Take a relaxing stroll along our lake shore as you visit several lights that have been placed in or along the lake to attract critters of all sizes.