Virginia State Parks Blog Open fires are prohibited throughout the park from midnight to 4 p.m., Feb. 15 through April 30. Blogs Blogs - State Parks Read Our Blogs 3 must-do activities at Clinch River State Park By Starr Anderson Posted April 22, 2026 Clinch River State Park is a hidden gem perfect for immersing yourself in nature. While it is under development, that doesn't mean this 640-acre, and growing, day-use park shouldn't be on your list of places to explore. 5 ways to experience Sweet Run State Park By Kim Wells Posted April 21, 2026 Located in Loudon County, Sweet Run State Park is an ideal place for a quiet getaway in a very busy area. The variety of trails, wildlife viewing and mountain scenery are the perfect combination for some amazing outdoor adventures. 5 must-do activities at New River Trail State Park By Starr Anderson Posted April 21, 2026 New River Trail State Park is a go-to destination for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers. This 57-mile linear park follows an abandoned railroad along the historic New River, offering one-of-a-kind views and a range of recreational opportunities. Protecting Virginia's Dark Sky Parks from light pollution By Starr Anderson Posted April 13, 2026 Virginia is home to five International Dark Sky Parks, four of which are state parks. They earned their designations from DarkSky International for their exceptional quality of starry nights. However, light pollution is a growing concern. 5 things to experience at Bear Creek Lake State Park By Kim Wells Posted April 08, 2026 Bear Creek Lake State Park is ideal for a day trip or a weekend getaway. The park offers seasonal programs that highlight nature and the wildlife that reside there. There is something for everyone to enjoy at this park, from the lake to the trails. What does a Virginia State Park Maintenance Ranger do? By Kim Wells Posted April 07, 2026 Consider a job at a Virginia State Park such as maintenance ranger and you might be surprised at much you love it! These hardworking rangers face different adventures each day while gaining knowledge and building skillsets along the way. Clinch River State Park: An update on Virginia's first blueway state park By Starr Anderson Posted April 07, 2026 Clinch River State Park continues to make exciting steps as it develops into Virginia's first blueway state park, blending river-based recreation and land conservation in a way no other state park in the commonwealth has done before. New merchandise coming to Virginia State Parks in 2026 By Megan Meadows Posted April 07, 2026 The annual Merchandise Vendor Gift Show is the perfect time for staff to stock up the gift shop for fun and meaningful souvenirs for our guests. Talking to the vendors to better understand their products made it easy to shop for merchandise ideas. Bikepacking New River Trail State Park: Q&A with Misty Prewitt By Starr Anderson Posted April 02, 2026 Bikepacking along New River Trail State Park offers an immersive outdoor experience for riders of all skill levels. If you're not sure how to get started with planning, check out our Q&A with experienced bikepacker Misty Prewitt. The Importance of Vernal Pools By Kim Wells Posted March 30, 2026 Do you know what a vernal pool is and what animals live there? Vernal pools are important for some species survival. I highly recommend checking out a Vernal Pool Program at a Virginia State Park to learn more about these pools first-hand. 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