Camping Near Virginia

When is litter more than trash at a Virginia State Park?

Monday, September 6, 2010 by Shellie Anne

As you know, it is never okay to litter in a Virginia State Park, unless you're a tree.
IT IS A PHENOMENON CALLED LEAF LITTER.

Fall is quickly approaching so make your plans to enjoy some Leaf Litter yourself. Tourists come in droves from all around the world and USA to see Virginia with her variety of leafy trees in the Fall. The Leaf Litter in the Blue Ridge and Shenandoah is intense, what we call trash the forest calls dinner!

What is Leaf Litter?

Nutrients that come from decaying leaves are a vital and constant value for the growth and death of our forests here in Virginia. Leaf Litter is an important short term nutrient pool, because it quickly decomposes and recycles. The build up of leaves on the forest floor creates a layer of nutrients and life-filled (organic) litter on top of the soil. This layer acts as food for many bacteria and other microscopic organisms as well as larger decomposers such as millipedes. But more importantly, it provides a way of recycling nutrients back into the forest through the soil. As leaves break apart, the nutrients are released and absorbed back into the ground, where they help feed the vegetation in the surrounding area. Without decaying leaves, it would be impossible for reforestation to take place.

Not all leaves that fall in the forest end up on the forest floor. Many fall into streams, where they becomes just as vital to the aquatic ecosystem. In fact, the primary energy source for Appalachian Mountain head water stream ecosystems is leaves.

Take a drive inside Virginia State Parks mountains and valleys

A picnic in a Virginia State Park to see the leaf litter

Fun in the leaf litter at a Virginia State Park

There is so much to love at Virginia State Parks, even the litter is adorable. (Millipedes...some might say they are cute too!)

(Information on Leaf Litter is from Encyclopedia of Appalachia by Abramson/Haskell. -Michael A. Arcuri, West Virginia Division of Environmental Protection, and James W Hardin, North Carolina State University.)

Special deer hunts to be held in Virginia State Parks

Friday, September 3, 2010 by Nancy Heltman

Official Department of Conservation and Recreation Press Release by Jim Mesiner, Public Relations Specialist

Applications are being accepted for special lottery deer hunts at Grayson Highlands State Park in Grayson County, Kiptopeke State Park in Northampton County, Leesylvania State Park in Prince William county and Natural Tunnel State Park in Scott County. Additional hunts will be held in conjunction with neighboring national wildlife refuges at Mason Neck State Park in Fairfax County and False Cape State Park in Virginia Beach.

Grayson Highlands will hold a youth general firearms hunt on Nov. 13, general firearms hunts on Nov. 15 and 16, and a muzzleloader hunt on Dec. 11. Applications for the Grayson Highlands hunts are due by Oct. 1.

Leesylvania State Park will hold a shotgun hunt Jan. 12. The application deadline for the hunt is Nov. 5. Hunters must present a weapons qualification certificate prior to the hunt.

Natural Tunnel State Park will hold a youth muzzleloader hunt Dec. 11 and a regular muzzleloader hunt Dec. 13-14. The application deadline for both hunts is Oct. 29.

A $5 non-refundable application fee must be submitted for each hunt. Anyone may enter the lotteries for a chance to participate in the controlled hunts, however successful applicants on the day of the hunt must show proof of completion of a hunter safety education course and pay a $10 fee. Each lottery entry requires a separate application.

For more information about these and other hunting opportunities and programs in Virginia State Parks or to obtain a lottery application, contact the Virginia State Parks Reservation Center at 800-933-PARK. Applications and information may also be found by clicking here.

False Cape State Park, in conjunction with Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge, will hold special hunts for feral hogs on Dec. 11, Jan. 8 and 22, and Feb. 5 and 19, 2011. Hunters must apply through the Virginia Department of Game and Inland Fisheries’ quota hunt system. Applications may be made online or by phone at 1-877-VAHUNTS Monday through Friday, 9:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.

For information on quota hunts, hunting licenses, hunter safety education and hunting regulations, call the Virginia Department of Game and Inland Fisheries at (804) 367-1000 or visit the DGIF website.

Mason Neck State Park, in conjunction with the Elizabeth Hartwell Mason Neck National Wildlife Refuge, also will hold lottery hunts Nov. 18-19 and Dec. 10. The lottery deadline is Sept. 24. A $10 fee is required for these hunts. Contact the Elizabeth Hartwell Mason Neck National Wildlife Refuge at (703) 490-4979 for more information or find the information online.

Additional hunting opportunities for managed hunts are handled through reservations. Click here for complete Virginia State Parks hunting information.

The award‑winning Virginia State Parks are managed by the Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation.

Labor Day - America's State Parks

Thursday, September 2, 2010 by Shellie Anne

Take the day off on Labor Day and enjoy nature and the outdoors at a Virginia State Park, your family will thank you!

Visit the Virginia State Parks Website and plan your weekend adventure today! An overnight, a picnic along the river or lake or a hike up to the Falls! Whatever you plan, let Virginia State Parks be a part of your weekend as you getaway from the labors of life.

There is so much to love at Virginia State Parks!

Video courtesy of America's State Parks - Close to Home.

Calm before the Storm: Hurricane Earl Preparations

Thursday, September 2, 2010 by Staci Martin

Due to the Hurricane Watch for coastal Virginia, False Cape, First Landing and Kiptopeke State Parks are closing at 4p.m. Thursday, September 2, 2010

Many people are wondering why the parks are closing when the storm track indicates an eastern swing late Thursday. I'd like to take a moment to explain the complex preparations Virginia State Parks make in these situations.

First and foremost, visitor safety is the absolute priority.

Ranger John Thurston preps for Hurricane Earl.

Virginia State Parks follows a set of policy guidelines that require us to close the parks when an area is under a "hurricane watch." This closure decision then triggers a complex set of protocols that are implemented with visitor safety in mind.

Weather forecasting is tricky business even on normal days--imagine trying to predict what will happen when the storm is nearly 200 miles wide with winds around 135 miles per hour. NOAA simply can not determine with 100% accuracy the track of this storm.

Ranger Shawn Waldrup preps chainsaws before Hurricane Earl.

Camping in an RV or tent in a wooded area during an intense storm is a lot different than hunkering down in your brick and mortar home. Heavy rains and moderate winds can bring down tree branches and fling debris across the park. Water pumps and electrical pedestals can fail due to downed trees and flood waters.

Yesterday, park staff alerted guests that the park will be closing at 4 p.m. Many park guests were directed to the Chesapeake Bay Center where City of Virginia Beach CVB staff and a public workstation with internet access is available. Guests are able to transfer their park reservation to inland parks, book hotel rooms, check email and check the latest weather data.

Traffic cones are prepped before Hurricane Earl

Throughout yesterday and today, park staff are gassing up vehicles, inspecting and fueling chainsaws, inventorying signage, prepping traffic cones and pulling out safety equipment. All of this is done with the goal of being able to open the park as soon as possible after the storm hits.

Late this afternoon after the park is closed to visitors, park staff will secure buildings by pulling down hurricane shutters, securing outdoor furniture and closing all gates and access points.

Late this evening, park staff will secure their own homes and make last-minute shopping excursions for supplies for their families. One of the reasons, we must make a closure decision so early in the storm tracking process is because we must give our employees time to handle their personal situations--relocating their families, stocking their hurricane kits, etc.

On Friday the storm is forecasted to pass through coastal Virginia between 4 a.m. and 2 p.m., once the situation is deemed safe, park staff will conduct inspections of all the public facilities and create a plan for re-opening the park.

The goal is to re-open as quickly as possible. On Friday, as soon as conditions permit, work crews will go out with chainsaws, tractors, and work trucks to remove down trees and debris. Dominion Power will be alerted to any electrical problems. If flooding is a problem, the park manager may decide to open on a limited basis--for instance, the manager may decide to open for day use only or may decide to open only the campground loops that are safe for visitors.

The best thing to do is to check the Virginia State Parks website for information on re-opening of the parks. Again, the main priority is visitor safety. We will re-open as soon as possible!!

Owl Release at Sky Meadows State Park

Wednesday, September 1, 2010 by Nancy Heltman

At Sky Meadows State Park on September 4, 2010 from 3:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. discover the unique qualities of owls with a close look at some live owls found in the area. Then, at 5:00 p.m. witness one of the most amazing things you’ll ever get to see - the release of two young Barn Owls.

In early June two Barn Owl owlets were found at Sky Meadows State Park. They were transported to the Raptor Conservancy of Virginia’s rehabilitation facility. Under the watchful eyes of Kent Knowles and all the wonderful care from the volunteers at the Raptor Conservancy of Virginia they are now ready to come home.

Owlets found at Sky Meadows State Park in June

Following the release you can investigate the diet of owls by dissecting their pellets. Afterward, take a hike in search of our nocturnal friends. Finally, wrap up the evening by trying to find an elusive “owl” in a unique nocturnal game of hide and seek.

Visitors should come to the Mount Bleak parking lot for directions to the release site. Call the park for details, or visit our website.

Time to Get Away From it All, Time to Reflect

Wednesday, September 1, 2010 by Shellie Anne

"In every walk with nature one receives far more than he seeks." -- John Muir

With all the activity of Summer coming to a halt, it is time to get away from it all, time to reflect.

Award winning Virginia State Parks have scenery that takes your breath away! From the mountains to the rivers to the seashore you can find a special quiet place at a Virginia State Park to reflect.

Island reflection at a Virginia State Park

"Reflect upon your present blessings - of which every man has many - not on your past misfortunes, of which all men have some." -- Charles Dickens

Island bridge to reflect at a Virginia State Park

"Only when the clamor of the outside world is silenced will you be able to hear the deeper vibration. Listen carefully." -- Sarah Ban Breathnach

We encourage you to take some time away from it all...watch the sunrise over The Chesapeake Bay on the Atlantic at First Landing State Park, or as it gently slips behind Massanutten Mountain at Shenenadoah River. Virginia State Parks give you peace of mind, body and spirit.

See a list of Virginia State Parks here to find that special place to reflect.

(Images above taken at Hungry Mother State Park.)

The Settlers Museum comes to Hungry Mother State Park

Wednesday, September 1, 2010 by Nancy Heltman

By Gwen Kirby, Office of Interpretation, Hungry Mother State Park

Do you say "Appa-laa-chian" or "Appa-lay-chian"? No matter which way you say it, come find out more about the people who moved to Southwest Virginia and laid the foundation for the unique and colorful culture of the Appalachian Mountains. Dylan House, curator of the Settlers Museum of Southwest Virginia, will be at Hungry Mother State Park on Saturday, September 4, to present "The Migration Story of Southwest Virginia", a program about the Scotch-Irish and German immigrants who came to these mountains. The program starts at 8:00 p.m. at the Park Amphitheater.

The Settlers Museum of Southwest Virginia is located in Atkins, Va., just a few miles from Interstate 81. The museum boasts a one-room schoolhouse, a farmhouse, and multiple outbuildings, all restored to represent a working farm from the late 1800s. With authentic farm tools and programs about school days, the museum educates the public about 19th century farm life in Southwest Virginia.

Hungry Mother State Park, located three miles outside of Marion, Va., offers opportunities for outdoor recreation and environmental education throughout the year. Contact the Discovery Center for more information about this program and others, at 276-781-7400.

A Civil War Living History Event at the Setllers Museum

End of Summer Bash at Hungry Mother State Park

Wednesday, September 1, 2010 by Nancy Heltman

By Gwen Kirby, Office of Interpretation, Hungry Mother State Park

Didn't get to the beach this summer? You have one more chance to get in some beach fun on Labor Day weekend at Hungry Mother State Park, September 3 - 6. The beach will be open from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. all weekend. Don't miss it - once it closes on Monday, September 6, it won't open again till 2011!

A bird's eye view of the beach at Hungry Mother State Park

We'll kick off the Labor Day weekend activities with the Welcome Ya'll Campfire on Friday, September 3, at 8:00 p.m. at the Amphitheater. Come to hear stories, sing songs, and roast marshmallows, all for free!

On Saturday and Sunday, make sure you're at the beach at 2:00 p.m., for Beachcombing! A free program, the interpreter will roam the beach with interesting items from the natural world.

On Saturday, September 4, take a break from the sun and sand and come to the Discovery Center at 4:00 p.m. for Trick Your Stick! Customize your very own hiking stick with paint, beads, and other goodies. Your registration fee of $3.00 provides sticks and materials. This event is sponsored by the Friends of Hungry Mother State Park and preregistration is required. .

At 8:00 p.m. on Saturday, come to the Amphitheater for "The Migration Story of Southwest Virginia", presented by Dylan House from the Settlers Museum of Southwest Virginia. We'll talk about the European settlers who cam to the mountains and their contributions to our culture.

There's more fun to be had on Sunday, September 5. At 4:00 p.m., we'll be in the creek for the Critter Crawl. We will search for creek-dwellers and explain their role in the environment. Please wear closed-toed shoes and clothes that can get wet. Meet at parking lot 2. Cost is $3 per person.

Later that evening, come to our Astronomy program at 8:00 p.m. in parking lot 4 for a look at the night sky. We'll show you some favorite constellations and talk about the stories behind them. This program is free and not to be missed! If we have overcast skies, we'll meet at Shelter 2.

Hungry Mother State Park, located three miles outside of Marion, Va., offers opportunities for outdoor recreation and environmental education throughout the year. Contact the Discovery Center for more information about these program and others, at 276-781-7400.

When the wind blows - our severe weather policy

Tuesday, August 31, 2010 by Nancy Heltman

It's hurricane season so it seems prudent to take the time to explain one of the less pleasant decisions we have to make - when and how to decide to close a park for severe weather.

From the first hint that a Hurricane or significant weather event is heading our way, Virginia's Department of Emergency Management scheduled conference calls for Federal, State and Local officials and major utility providers to discuss preparedness for the storm.

From our perspective, the safety of our visitors is of paramount concern and Virginia State Parks has an official policy that helps us decide when it is prudent to close our facilities. In other words, when we decide we need to make our overnight and day guests leave the park. We do not make the decision lightly, but you can see with the policy, below, that we have well defined parameters for making that call.

The Park Manager or the highest ranking employee physically present on site (not necessarily scheduled on duty) upon determining that unsafe conditions exist, may close any or all facilities or any part of a facility until that condition no longer exists.

   1.   The State Parks Director or his designee shall order the closure of facilities under the following conditions:

       a.   A park will be closed to the public whenever the park is part of an area declared to be under a “Hurricane Watch” by the National Oceanographic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA).

       b.   A park will be closed to the public whenever the National Hurricane Center (NHC) of NOAA has determined that there is greater than a twenty percent (20%) chance of fifty knot or higher winds. The cabins and campgrounds will be closed and guests compelled to leave (see sheltering) when this condition and probability is projected anytime in the subsequent seventy-two (72) hours.

       c.   A park will be closed to the public whenever the National Hurricane Center (NHC) of NOAA has determined that there is greater than a fifty percent (50%) chance of thirty-four knot or higher winds (tropical storm force). The cabins and campgrounds will be closed and guests compelled to leave (see sheltering) when this condition and probability is projected anytime in the subsequent seventy-two (72) hours.

       d.   A park or any portion of that park within an area projected to be inundated will be closed to the public twenty-four hours in advance of when local river level forecasts project the inundation.

           Closure at this level of threat is done with the understanding that the public’s presence in a State Park area is far more discretionary than that of local residents. Compelling their departure at an earlier stage of a threat minimizes their potential to complicate or even add to the congestion associated with a general evacuation of an area at a later stage of the threat. Further, their early departure provides staff the opportunity to concentrate on safety of resident staff and their families and facility protection.

   The above safety thresholds are not intended to limit the authority of the State Park Director or his designee to close facilities when other contributing factors make that facility unsafe in his judgment.

Our official call to close a park or facilities is the trigger for when we waive cancellation fees. Prior to that determination, guests are free to cancel using our standard cancellation policy. You can always check the current conditions on the NOAA weather site.

Sometimes our guests have been upset that we have closed the park and sent them away from a place to stay with nowhere for them to go. However, our decision is always based on our determination that it is UNSAFE to be in the park under the forecasted conditions. Our goal is to provide the most accurate and advance notification within reason and to notify customers in advance of their arrival whenever possible. It is important that guests provide us with email addresses or multiple contact phone numbers so we can reach them in advance of their departure.

To help get the information about park closings to customers without the need for everyone to call our Reservation line, we have instituted a new emergency bulletin system. If there is urgent information like whole park closures or specific facility closures, there will be a brown box close to the top of a park's webpage (see arrow in the picture below) with "Click here to read an urgent message about this park." If you click that link you will be directed to a page with the current information.

The arrow shows where the urgent park information box will appear. There will be no box if there is no urgent information.

We hope this new alert system will enable our visitors to know about any possible closings or issues that may impact their overnight stay or day visit before they leave their house.

The last thing we ever want to do is ruin someone's vacation or park visit, especially since some of these trips are planned eleven months in advance. But there is nothing like a tree falling through your tent or cabin to do just that not to mention potential life threatening events. And, yes the forecasts can be wrong but our intent is always to err on the side of caution when it comes to your safety!

The Shenandoah River

Sunday, August 29, 2010 by Shellie Anne

This is the last big weekend of the summer. Still time for you to visit and enjoy spending some time at a Virginia State Park! Like this young lady from Rocky Mount Virginia and her guide "The Shenandoah Rover" did at Shenandoah River State Park.

Shenandoah Rover at Shenandoah River State Park Virginia

Shenandoah State Park Virginia State Parks

The park is 1,604 acres with 5.6 miles of river frontage along the south fork of the Shenandoah River. The rolling, mountainous land features steep slopes and is mostly wooded. In addition to meandering river frontage, the park offers scenic vistas overlooking Massanutten Mountain to the west and Shenandoah National Park to the east.

Park Size: 1,604 acres, 5.6 miles of river frontage along the south fork of the Shenandoah River. About 140 acres are pastoral. There is no boat launch, but there is a canoe put in spot with ample parking.

Shenandoah River State Park has 11 brand new cabins, a primitive campground right beside the river, an incredible new RV campground with full hook ups and even camping cabins for you to enjoy! You can reserve your spot on line today or call 1-800-933-PARK for your Virginia State Parks experience.

Other features at this amazing Virginia State Park is a brand new state-of-the-art visitor center with LEED certification, picnic shelters, hiking, biking and horseback trails and plenty of parking. Don't miss the view from the lookout near the Visitor Center, especially at sunset or sunrise, it is spectacular!

There is so much to love at Virginia State Parks - I dare you to prove me wrong!

Virginia State Parks Partner with The North Face Company

Friday, August 27, 2010 by Kristen Uerz

Tired of the usual hustle and bustle of your busy city life? Well, here's the solution. Get back in touch with nature while releasing some of your stress during a peaceful hike in one of Virginia's great state parks.

Thanks to a partnership between Virginia State Parks and The North Face Company, five of Virginia's state parks near northern Virginia and Washington, D.C. (Leesylvania, Caledon, Lake Anna, Shenandoah River and Mason Neck) will be featured in a trail guide distributed to customers at participating North Face independent retailers. The exciting new program encourages people living in the greater DC area to get outdoors and enjoy the State Parks.

You can also pick up your trail guide at any of the participating parks. Each of the five parks will have an interpretive sign that will contain a code unique to that park. Visitors will record the code in their trail guide, return it to any participating retail store and receive a free North Face stainless steel water bottle. In addition to the trail guide, customers who make a $50 North Face purchase will also receive an entrance pass good at any Virginia State Park. Trail guides and passes will be distributed from September 1 - October31, 2010 at participating retail stores and featured State Parks. The entrance pass will be good until December 31, 2010. There are a limited number of passes and water bottles so be sure to get yours before they are all gone!

In addition to their support, The North Face Company will also donate $1 toward trail preservation in Virginia State Parks for every person who signs up for the North Face Planet Explore or The North Face Trailhead Application during September and October 2010, up to $2,000 per state. To learn more about this program and to get a list of participating retailers click here.

The North Face, named for the coldest, most unforgiving side of a moutain, has helped explorers reach the most unfathomable heights of the Himalayas. Working to inspire the next generation of explorers and conservationists by helping them discover nature's playground, the company is partnering with Maryland and Virginia State Parks for the inaugural Explore Your Parks (EYP) program.

Want to find other events in your community? Visit Planet Explore, the online community with a host of hiking, biking, running and other events in your area.

Belle Isle State Park presents; The Marvels of Morattico!

Friday, August 27, 2010 by Annette Bareford

What can be better than spending the morning paddling along the beautiful waterways of Belle Isle State Park in Lancaster County incorporating in that float a trip to Morattico’s Waterfront Museum?

Saturday September 4th, Belle Isle State Park and Morattico Waterfront Museum team up to offer a kayak program called the “Marvels of Morattico.” Kayakers will leave Belle Isle at 10 a.m. and paddle down Mulberry Creek and onto the Rappahannock River to the Village of Morattico. Along the way the guide will talk about the native inhabitants, early European settlement, and the modern history of the village. Participants will go on shore at Morattico, tour the museum, and have a light snack before paddling back to the park and arriving about 1 p.m.

Belle Isle State Park is located in Lancaster County near the town of Kilmarnock. Morattico is a village on the northern shore of the Rappahannock River in the heart of Virginia's Northern Neck, consisting of a post office, two churches, the Morattico Waterfront Museum, an active though diminishing fleet of fishing vessels, and scores of dwellings of its residents.

Since the 17th Century Morattico has been depended upon the Rappahannock River for its sustenance and identity. Now, in the 21st Century, during a time when oyster and crab populations in the Rappahannock River and the Chesapeake Bay have shrunk dramatically, Morattico is working to remain a vital and vibrant waterfront community. The Morattico Waterfront Museum, housed in the old Morattico General Store, is committed to preserving and honoring Morattico's history and, in the process, contributing to the development of its future.

Cost for the program is $15 per single kayak and $22 per double kayak and includes all equipment. Call 462-5030 for reservations. For more information on Belle Isle State Park visit our website.

"Tell Us How We're Doing" Contest Winners

Friday, August 27, 2010 by Kristen Uerz

FOCUS Week for Virginia State Parks is a week in July when we focus on getting customers to complete a Your Comments Count Survey to let us know what we are doing right, where we need to improve and what our customers expect from a visit to a Virginia State Park. As a way of encouraging visitors to fill out the survey we held a contest so visitors could win a 7 night cabin stay, 6 nights of camping, a picnic shelter rental, 3 Annual park or boat launch/equestrian passes and 12 Virginia State Park tee shirts.

To enter the contest, visitors simply had to visit a Virginia State Park during the week of July 5-11 and then complete a Your Comments Count Survey. Customer comments are important to us as they help us to provide the best possible experience for all of our park visitors. We've been surveying our customers since 1997 with our Your Comments Count Survey and just last year we received over 7,000 completed surveys.

We are happy to announce the following winners for 2010:

Grand Prize: 7 night cabin stay - Junior Easter, Fairy Stone

Second Prize: 6 nights of camping - Kenneth Tingen, Occoneechee

Third Prize: Picnic Shelter Rental - Roy Evans, Smith Mountain Lake

Fourth Prize: Choice of Annual parking or boat launch/equestrian pass - Mary Joyce, New River Trail; Debbie Kinder, Hungry Mother; Missy Martin, Smith Mountain Lake

Virginia State Park tee shirts: Jennifer English, Yvonne Rodgers, Cody Harvey, Wanda Adkins, Sherri Bishop, W.A. Bridenstine Jr., Jesse Ratcliffe Jr., Sandra Avancini, Lori Key, Dorothy Archer, Katherine Lenzi, and Hilary West

Congratulations to all of our winners. It's not too early to start thinking about next summer. Call our reservation center at 1-800-933-7275 Monday-Friday or visit our website anytime.

Wish You Were Here!

Friday, August 27, 2010 by Shellie Anne

A Change of Scenery Will Do You Good

Take a look at Virginia State Parks where the air is fresher, cleaner and there is more of it!

Open your eyes and look around you, what do you see? Can you feel it, smell it and hear it? Let Virginia State Parks magnify your senses...listen carefully to hear the sound of a bat on a ball and children laughing, or look closely to the see harbingers of Spring.

Hiking and views at Virginia State Parks

Virginia State Parks has a fantastic trails system, you better get out here and experience it yourself!

Virginia State Parks have more than 450 miles of trails in 34 state parks, historic sites and natural areas. With more than seven million park visitors a year, our trails see a lot of use. In fact, more than 97 percent of those responding to the 2000 Virginia Outdoors Survey rated trails the most important offering state parks provide.

These trails provide a range of outdoor experiences in different settings - coastal forests, dunes, hardwood forests, tranquil lakes, hemlock forests and spectacular views in the mountains. Trails give visitors the chance for bird watching and wildlife viewing, exercise, family outings, mountain biking or just a quiet escape from urban life. Whatever your interest, our trails fill the bill.

Parks with handicapped accessible trails include Belle Isle, Chippokes, Claytor Lake, Fairy Stone, First Landing, Hungry Mother, James River, Kiptopeke, Leesylvania, Mason Neck, Southwest Virginia Museum, Natural Tunnel, New River Trail, Pocahontas, Staunton River Battlefield and York River.

See the entire list of Virginia State Parks Trails Here. Currently there are Hiking, Biking, Mountain Biking, Hiking/Biking, Hiking/Equestrian, Hiking/Biking/Equestrian, Rail Trail, Connector, Interpretive, and Water Accessible Trails available for everyone to enjoy. Don't forget Fido, he will know where you have been without him, so bring him along!

Learn more about park offerings by calling 1-800-933-PARK. Click here to reserve a campsite or picnic shelter or to check cabin availability.

There's so much to love at Virginia State Parks!

Chances are You’ve Never Seen a Drill Team Like This

Wednesday, August 25, 2010 by Kim Miller

Come out to First Landing State Park this Saturday at 5:00 pm to the Chesapeake Bay Center to see a one-of-a-kind demonstration: the Pit Bull Awareness Coalition will be having their first Pit Bull drill team performance! This will be a truly unique experience! In addition to the drill team performance, members of the Coalition discuss Pit Bulls in hopes of dispelling some of the misconceptions and end discrimination against the breed. The Pit Bull Awareness Coalition is comprised of local animal rescue groups, animal rights advocates, trainers and responsible "Bully Breed" owners from Southside Hampton Roads, Virginia. To learn more information about the Pit Bull Awareness Coalition, visit www.whatapittie.org!

This event is free and open to the public. $5 parking per vehicle. For information about this event, contact Jennifer Huggins at 757-412-2306 or jennifer.huggins@dcr.virginia.gov.

Big Country 101 Back to School Beach Bash at Douthat State Park - Wrap Up

Tuesday, August 24, 2010 by Jaimie Lomasney

Big Country 101 Annual Back to School Beach Bash was held on Saturday, Aug. 21, 2010, beginning at 11 a.m. at Douthat State Park.

The day was a big success at Douthat’s beach complex. To kick off the morning at 11 a.m. was the hula hoop contest. Third place was 33-year-old Amanda Hart from Roanoke, second place was 16-year-old Joe Brendel from Highland County, and first place was 10-year-old Lindsay Gunsallus from Charlottesville. All contestants hula-hooped under three minutes.

The toilet paper toss started around 11:30 a.m. Guests had to throw 12 rolls of toilet paper while his or her partner caught it blindfolded while sitting on the toilet. First place was a tie with both teams catching eight rolls: Tom Mahr and son Nicholas Mahr from Washington D.C. and Joey Brendel from Highland County and friend Kyle Judy from Pendleton County.

Lunch was served at noon with 300 hot dogs donated from U.S. Food Services.

Joey Brendel winning the 2010 Limbo Contest

At 1 p.m. the limbo contest took place with 16-year-old Joey Brendel winning from Highland County.

The sand sculpture contest was judged and third place went to Lilly and Erin Brendel who built a sea turtle, second place was Megan Safara who built a shark, and first place was Katie Niebuhr who also built a sand shark.

The day came to an end with the Cardboard Boat Regatta. The boats were first judged for Best in Show. Jeff, Lora, Madison, and Hailey Flint from Fishersville won Best in Show by creating a Hokie Boat.

First place in the boat race for the second year in a row was Logan Gunsallus from Charlottesville, Va.

Second place in the boat race was Taylor Hubbard and third place was Paxton Jolly.

First National Bank and McDonald’s along with U.S. Food Services helped sponsor the event.

Logan Gunsallus taking off on the right for the 2010 Boat Regatta

There were 364 guests who bought swim passes for Saturday and 12 boats entered in the Card Board Boat Regatta.

For more information click here, contact the park office at 540-862-8100 or email Douthat State Park at Douthat@dcr.virginia.gov. Douthat is located at 14239 Douthat State Park Road, Millboro, VA 24460.

Overnight reservations can also be made by calling 1-800-933-PARK (7275) or by booking on line.

Wake Up Some Place Special!

Monday, August 23, 2010 by Shellie Anne

You will always wake up some place special at a Virginia State Park!

Have you ever stayed at a cabin or lodge at a Virginia State Park? Rates are very reasonable and even includes in-state discounts to Virginia residents. Consider a cabin or lodge for your next family getaway or girls weekend out. Let me show thee the ways...

Modern Amenities and Comfort at a Cabin at a Virginia State Park

Virginia State Parks provide comfortable and economical overnight accommodations, with 260 climate-controlled cabins. Many cabins are available year round, they range from rustic to elegant.

Climate-controlled cabins are available at Bear Creek Lake, Chippokes Plantation, Claytor Lake, Douthat, Fairy Stone, First Landing, Hungry Mother, James River, Lake Anna, Occoneechee, Staunton River, Smith Mountain Lake, Twin Lakes and Westmoreland state parks. Cabin sizes and sleeping arrangments vary by park. One bedroom cabins, two or three bedroom cabins, many with bunkbeds so bring the whole family and some friends too!

All cabins have kitchens and bathrooms. Furnishings and equipment include rustic furniture, microwave, refrigerator, oven, dishes, cooking utensils, silverware, kitchen towels and glassware. Bath towels and bedroom linens, including mattress covers, pillows, blankets, sheets and pillow cases, also are included.

All cabins except those at Chippokes Plantation State Park and Twin Lakes State Park's Hill Lodge and Martin Cottage have fireplaces. Cabins at Smith Mountain Lake have wood stoves.

The parks also have Handicap Accessable cabins with ramps and large open bathrooms.

Reserve your cabin online - pick the park, pick the dates, pick the actual cabin you would like! You can view locations with in each Virginia State Park. Search here for amenities.

Don't forget Fido. Fido is welcome to stay with you in your cabin at nearly all Virginia State Parks. (Following all park leash regulations of course.) There is an additional nominal rate of $10 per pet per day (hey this is less than boarding Fido) and look at all the fun Fido will have with the family!

You can reserve your cabin or lodge up to 10 months in advance. So now is your chance to book your cabin for next Spring, Summer or Fall!

Relax at a cabin at a Virginia State Park

In addition to cabins and family lodges, special facilities include:

Bel Air Mansion and Guest House - These two upscale, overnight facilities in Belle Isle State Park are perfect for family reunions or picturesque weddings. Furnished with antique reproductions, the mansion comfortably sleeps six, and the simply furnished guest house sleeps eight.

Cove Ridge Center at Natural Tunnel State Park - Available for reunions, conferences or business meetings, the two attached dormitories can accommodate up to 30 each. Overnight guests have free use of adjacent swimming pool during normal operating hours. Reservations are handled by the park at (276) 940-2696.

Poplar Hill Cottage at the Southwest Virginia Museum - This quaint, garden-themed cottage is the perfect getaway in the mountains. Furnished with reproduction furniture, the charming cottage is in the historic Poplar Hill neighborhood, adjacent to other fine homes. The cottage comfortably sleeps six and two full baths. Pets are not allowed. Reservations are handled by the park at (276) 523-1322.

There is so much to love at Virginia State Parks! Well, what are you waiting for?

Get Out and Play the High Tech Way!

Saturday, August 21, 2010 by Shellie Anne

Geocaching (Gee-oh-Cash-ing) is hide and seek for treasure at Virginia State Parks!

A geocacher can place a geocache anywhere in the world, pinpoint its location using GPS technology, then share the geocache's existence and location online. Anyone with a GPS device can then try to locate the geocache. Someone hides a container of inexpensive knickknacks -- a cache. Then they post its latitude & longitude on the internet, and anyone can go hunting for it. If they find it they trade knickknacks and sign a log to record their visit.

We left this treasure - a Michael Waltrips Comedy Garage ticket at the geocache at a VA State Park

Closed up the geocache securely and hid it away. Va State Parks

Before you go:

Find a geocache that will meet your immediate goals. Are you looking for a difficult hike or an easy adventure? Learn How to Find a Geocache from the official website here.
If you're headed out on the trail, pack any needed supplies such as water, food and extra clothing. Bring both a map and a compass. Check geocache terrain and difficulty ratings.
For safety, let someone know where you are going, never hike alone!
Do not forget your GPS and extra batteries.
A Digital Camera to photograph your journey.

Get Out and Play

Mark your vehicle as a waypoint to ensure your safe return.
Be mindful of the environment, practice Cache In Trash Out.
Bring friends and family with you; sharing the experience can be very rewarding. Pets are usually welcome, too!
Remember that distances can be deceiving. A geocache can take longer to find depending on trails, rivers and other obstacles. It is best to plan your time accordingly, ie a morning hike vs evening hike.

Share Your Experience

If you take something from the geocache, leave something of equal or greater value.
Write about your experience in the geocache logbook.
Place your geocaching stories and photos online.

Information from the Official Geocaching website

But, the real fun is discovering endless new Virginia State Parks and interesting places near you that you never knew were there. Visit this page for more information with coordinates of each of your Virginia State Parks.

It is also fun and free, many Virginia State Parks have scheduled beginning Geocache classes and rental units for you to use while visiting, who doesn't love a scavenger hunt? Virginia State Parks wants you to know:

Use existing trails to travel to GPS waypoints whenever possible.
Do not damage plants, trees, animal nests, etc. Practice Leave No Trace™.
Comply with all signs and barriers.
Do not disturb soil or landscape. Geocaches are never buried.
If the area looks unsafe, don’t go that way.
Pay attention to surroundings. Look back as you go in so that you’ll recognize the way out.
Cache In – Trash Out: Never litter, and pick up for those who may have dropped something.
Notify park staff if you see anything that needs attention.

At Virginia State Parks there is so much to love!