Media Center - News Release

Media inquiries: Please contact Dave Neudeck, dave.neudeck@dcr.virginia.gov, 804-786-5053.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Date: May 04, 2026
Contact: Starr Anderson, Public Relations and Marketing Specialist, 540-460-1540, starr.anderson@dcr.virginia.gov

Virginia State Parks celebrates Kids to Parks Day with statewide activities on May 16

(Editors: Follow this link to download an image. Photo caption: Photo Courtesy of Virginia State Parks)

RICHMOND, Va. — Virginia State Parks will join outdoor organizations across the country on Saturday, May 16, to celebrate Kids to Parks Day, a national day of outdoor play designed to connect children, families and communities with the great outdoors.

Hosted by the National Park Trust, Kids to Parks Day encourages young people to discover local, state and national parks while promoting active, healthy outdoor recreation.

All 44 Virginia State Parks will offer a variety of kid‑friendly programs, including guided hikes, nature crafts, outdoor skills, wildlife programs, scavenger hunts, Junior Ranger activities and more.

“Kids to Parks Day is one of our favorite opportunities to inspire children to explore the outdoors,” said Virginia State Parks Chief of Education and Interpretation Katie Shepard. “Whether it’s turning over a log to find a salamander, joining a ranger-led hike or playing outside with family, these moments can spark a lifelong connection to nature.”

Many parks will offer free, ranger-led activities throughout the day, and families are encouraged to check their local park’s event listings for schedules and program details. Regular parking fees apply unless otherwise noted.

To learn more and view the full line-up of Kids to Parks Day events, please go to https://www.dcr.virginia.gov/state-parks/kids-to-parks-day.

- 30 -

About Virginia State Parks

Virginia State Parks are managed by the Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation. For more information about Virginia State Parks’ activities and amenities or to reserve one of the more than 1,800 campsites or 300 climate-controlled cabins, call the Virginia State Parks Reservation Center at 800-933-PARK or visit www.virginiastateparks.gov.

Home » Media Center » News Releases