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

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Date: August 03, 2026
Contact: Starr Anderson, Public Relations and Marketing Specialist, 540-460-1540, starr.anderson@dcr.virginia.gov

Fall Star Party returns to Staunton River State Park

(Editors: Follow this link to download an image. Photo caption: Fall Star Party)

(Editors: Follow this link to download an image. Photo caption: Staunton River State Park Dark Sky Observation Field)

SCOTTSBURG, Va. – Registration is open for Staunton River State Park’s Fall Star Party, sponsored by the Chapel Hill Astronomical and Observational Society.

This week-long astronomy festival gives stargazing enthusiasts of all ages the chance to experience the night sky at an International Dark Sky Park like they’ve never done before.

From Oct. 5-11, astronomers are invited to bring their telescopes and camp on the park’s Dark Sky Observation Field, which is renowned for its dark sky and excellent stargazing conditions.

“Staunton River State Park is proud to host another Fall Star Party,” said Park Manager Austin Peightel. “Each year, visitors and astronomers bring incredible enthusiasm to the event, and our dark skies offer the perfect backdrop for exploring the wonders above.”

Admission to the Fall Star Party is $110 for the full week or $60 for the weekend (Thursday-Sunday). These prices include camping privileges. To learn more about the Fall Star Party or to register, go to www.virginiastateparks.gov/stauntonriver-events.

The Star Party is open to the public on Friday, Oct. 9. From 8 to 10 p.m., visitors will have the opportunity to meet the astronomers on the observation field and explore the cosmos themselves. The Star Party is free to attend for the public on Oct. 9; however, standard parking fees apply.

Astronomers unable to attend the Fall Star Party can mark their calendars for the Spring Star Party. It’s scheduled for March 8-14.

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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.

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