Friend groups Open fires are prohibited throughout the park from midnight to 4 p.m., Feb. 15 through April 30. Friend Groups State parks are big places that offer many amenities and recreational opportunities. It takes a lot of work to keep those offerings available, and many parks rely on friend groups for support. Friend groups build and maintain trails, manage beautification projects, help staff visitor centers, work on educational outreach programs, and raise funds for park projects and facilities. They also help at festivals, workshops, and other park events. These groups are usually made up of local park supporters and typically enjoy tax‑exempt status. They’re always looking for new members. To learn more about or join a nearby park’s friend group, visit the web page of the park you’re interested in and click on “ Other Info ” on the left side of the page. Here's a list of parks with friend groups: Bear Creek Lake Belle Isle Caledon Chippokes Claytor Lake Douthat Fairy Stone False Cape First Landing High Bridge Trail Holliday Lake Hungry Mother James River Lake Anna Leesylvania Mason Neck Natural Bridge New River Trail Natural Tunnel Occoneechee Pocahontas Powhatan Sailor's Creek Battlefield Seven Bends Shenandoah River Sky Meadows Smith Mountain Lake Southwest Virginia Museum Staunton River Battlefield Sweet Run State Park Between the Hills Conservancy U.S. Trail Ride Wilderness Road York River Those interested in forming a friends group will find useful guidance in DCR's Volunteer Citizen Support Group Manual Download a booklet about state park amenities. General info Reservations Passes, prices and fees Lodging Programs and events Careers Job openings Media Center Know Before You Go For groups Meeting facilities Host an event Weddings Things to know FAQ Rules and regulations Pet policy Don't move firewood Feature articles Public Safety and Law Enforcement Get Involved Volunteer Friend groups Volunteer Host Youth Conservation Corps Stay connected Blog eNewsletter sign up Partnerships Virginia State Parks are managed by the Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation 600 E. Main St., 24 th Floor | Richmond, VA 23219 To learn about park offerings and overnight accommodations, email resvs@dcr.virginia.gov or call 800-933-PARK (7275) Address other general inquiries to vastateparks@dcr.virginia.gov Please send website comments to web@dcr.virginia.gov Copyright © 2026, Virginia IT Agency. All rights reserved. Last Modified: Monday, 9 March 2026, 11:42:16 AM WAI Level A Compliant ADA Notice