DCR Virginia State Parks  
Weekly NewsletterSeptember 15, 2016


Virginia State Parks Photo Gallery
Holliday Lake State Park
I know Elmer Fudd is around here somewhere


Hungry Mother State Park
No Fair! You started before me.


James River State Park
Quiet Time


In This Issue

Join Us As We Welcome Park 37
Nancy Heltman, Visitor Services Director Virginia State Parks

Click to enlarge Natural Bridge State Park. I'm still getting used to hearing it and many of us here at Virginia State Parks keep saying "Natural Tunnel State Park" by mistake. After all, for our careers we have been explaining to people that Natural Bridge isn't a state park.

But on Saturday, Sept. 24, 2016 it will become the 37th Virginia State Park with great fanfare. It is an appropriate day for its opening since it's National Public Lands Day, a day we celebrate the land of the people - parks and other properties protected by the government (at all levels) for us all to enjoy. OUR PUBLIC LANDS.

Admission to the Park will be free for the day.

Click Here to read why Nancy is so excited.

Click Here for a location map of Natural Bridge State Park.

Southwest Virginia Museum Hosts "Songs of Service"

Retha Cole, Education Specialist, Southwest Virginia Museum

Southwest Virginia Museum Historical State Park is hosting "Songs of Service" to celebrate the National Day of Service and Remembrance on Saturday, September 24 from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. "Songs of Service" is the sixth annual event at the park honoring all police, fire, armed forces, rescue members, and other community servants.

"Songs of Service" will feature a performance by Tyler Hughes and Poplar Hill Reunion. In addition to live music, hot dogs and refreshments will be available for a donation. Donations will benefit the Big Stone Gap Fire Department. All police, fire, armed forces, rescue members, and other community servants who attend in uniform will receive a free hot dog and a drink.

"Songs of Service" is free and open to the public. For more information, please call the Southwest Virginia Museum Historical State Park at 276-523-1322.

Click Here for a location map of Southwest Virginia Museum Historical State Park.

Southwest Virginia Museum Bus Tour to
Grayson Highlands Fall Festival

Retha Cole, Education Specialist, Southwest Virginia Museum

Southwest Virginia Museum Historical State Park is now accepting reservations for the Grayson Highlands State Park Fall Festival. The tour is scheduled for Saturday, September 24 from 8 a.m. until 6 p.m.

Hop on the Museum bus for a fall trip to the Grayson Highlands Fall Festival. The bus will depart at 8 a.m. and arrive at Grayson Highlands State Park just after the festival begins. Grayson Highlands State Park is located at the Mouth of Wilson, near beautiful Mount Rogers and White Top Mountain, Virginia's two highest mountains. Tour members will have the opportunity to experience the Fall Festival at their own pace until 3 p.m. when the bus will depart for the Museum.

The tour fee for "Grayson Highlands Fall Festival" Bus Tour is $25 per person, and seating is limited so call and make your reservation today.

For more information about the Tour to Grayson Highlands Fall Festival Bus Tour, or to register, please call the Southwest Virginia Museum Historical State Park at 276-523-1322.

Click Here for a location map of Grayson Highlands State Park

Click Here for a location map of Southwest Virginia Museum Historical State Park.

Good Things Come Internships

Tom Kneipp, Park Ranger, Bear Creek Lake State Park

Every spring Bear Creek Lake State Park in Cumberland County offers its resources as a platform for students to develop internships to complement their scholastic interests. Over the past few years we've had students from the University of North Carolina at Wilmington, Sweet Briar College, and several from Longwood University. These are non-paid internships. Some have been for scholastic credit, some just for students to gain experience. All sign up as Virginia State Park volunteers. Some have been in response to the park's request for specific needs, such as a Natural Resource Assistant, Cultural Resource Assistant or Interpretive Guide Intern. Others are student-initiated. This past summer we created a Conservation and Recreation Intern position to allow a student, Devin Straub, a way to explore different facets of the work of agencies that all provide good stewardship of our natural environment. Ms. Straub wrote:

"My name is Devin Straub. I am currently a Longwood University, Class of 2017, Integrated Environmental Science student. The concentration for my degree is in Life Sciences. I also enjoy the social sciences as well.

Longwood University requires every student to complete a field-related internship as part of our degree. I was fortunate enough to have the opportunity to do my internship at Bear Creek Lake State Park. BCLSP worked with me and several other state agencies to complete this goal.

The reason I decided to complete my internship at BCLSP was to explore how recreation and conservation worked within the state park systems. I felt this experience could help me get a feel for what I may want to do after I graduate. I wanted to shadow Park Rangers and learn how the state parks work in tandem with various other state agencies. Chief Ranger Thomas Kneipp of BCLSP was my internship supervisor and proved invaluable with the entire internship process. He connected me with such groups as Cumberland County 4-H, and the Virginia Master Naturalists as well as employees of other state agencies. The first few days of my internship consisted of "interpretative days", where I assisted VA Department of Forestry Forest Technician Stephen Jasenak, in giving a toured hike within the park to a Cumberland 4-H environmental day camp. We worked with an increment borer and a B.H.C tape to age different species of trees within the park. I also got to see how the park works with the 4-H groups on various activities. One highlight was definitely a canoe expedition where we explored the lake while discussing wildlife and habitat. During that particular trip I got to participate in a T-rescue after three campers flipped their canoe while reaching out a bit too far in an effort to grab a goose feather. That was quite a sight and a lot of fun. Everything turned out fine and we all had a good laugh! The experience certainly reinforced the importance of safety procedures and taking the time to do things right.

Another highlight would have to be the time I got to spend with VA Department of Game and Inland Fisheries Fisheries Biologist, Daniel Michaelson. The experience of electro-shocking in the lake for an environmental detective day camp was absolutely fascinating. I also got to work with VDGIF Wildlife Biologist Katie Martin monitoring several bear traps. Bears are my favorite apex predator and this internship allowed me to explore this topic in greater detail. We didn't get any bears but we did check, refresh, and place some traps. Getting to spend the day with Katie was really helpful and informative. I learned a lot about what she does and how it all connects with other agencies as well. She helped me put some of my future in perspective.

Each day at BCLSP awarded me with different opportunities and the ability to interview someone new. [Devin spent time talking with staff in all areas: maintenance, seasonal employees, Office Manager Laura Moss and Park Manager Charlie Whalen.] The running joke around BCLSP is that "She's going to learn enough to open her own park!" Everyone has been amazing and truly seem to enjoy sharing their knowledge. I love that Virginia State Parks are willing to work with university students to explore their potential."

The Park thanks Devin for being a part of the BCLSP family, if only for a brief while. We encourage any student who would like to utilize the park as an educational resource to contact [email protected].

Click Here for a location map of Bear Creek Lake State Park.

Festivals, National and Special Events
At times it may become necessary to cancel or change the date or time of an event.  If you are planning to visit us based on a specific event you may want to call ahead to verify that there have been no changes.


Bear Creek Lake State Park   Located at 22 Bear Creek Lake Road Cumberland VA 23040
09/24/2016    National Public Lands Day      National Public Lands are our sacred trust, and if we are to enjoy them, we should help care for them. On this day you have that opportunity by being a part of a special service project. We will also have some free interpretive programs to help you to understand and appreciate your public lands even more than you already do.  At 10 a.m. our ranger-led walk will be The Big Idea. How have people and nature impacted each other over the years? How has that ebb and flow helped create our public lands here in Virginia's piedmont? This walk will be over moderate terrain and will last about an hour. Comfortable walking shoes recommended. The trail is not suitable strollers. This day will also be a part of Stewardship Virginia so please check our Stewardship Virginia Fall listing for more information.    Location - Various locations within the park    Phone - (804) 492-4410

09/24/2016    Stewardship Virginia Fall   1:00 p.m. - 2:30 p.m.   Invasive plants are plants that have travelled to a new area where they are not native, and are taking over the native environment. This causes problems for our native ecosystems. http://www.dcr.virginia.gov/natural-heritage/invspinfo . To help restore areas of Bear Creek Lake State Park that have been impacted by the invasive Japanese Stilt grass, meet with staff at the Park Office for site assignment, and we'll spend 90 minutes pulling out the invaders. The grass pulls up easily, but working gloves are recommended. Participants will receive a certificate of thanks signed by the Governor for their efforts to beautify the Park. Please contact the park by phone, or by email at: [email protected] to let us know of your intention to participate, so we can have your certificates ready and let you know where to meet.    Location - Various locations within the park    Phone - (434) 572-4623

Belle Isle State Park   Located at 1632 Belle Isle Road Lancaster VA 22503
09/17/2016    Virginia State Parks History and Culture: Oysters!   11:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.   Celebrate the History and Culture of the Northern Neck with Belle Isle State Park!    11 a.m. -Tending the (Oyster) Garden - Boat Launch   Learn all about the life of an oyster: what they eat, how they grow, and if they have friends and enemies. We will also discuss their importance to the ecosystem of the bay and river. Guests will have the opportunity to get a hands-on, up-close look at oysters and the other critters that call an oyster garden home.      1:30 p.m. - Paddle Program: Oyster Wars - Camp Store  A long time ago in a galaxy far, far away. No, wait. That isn't right! The oyster wars took place right here in the Chesapeake Bay, and changed oyster harvesting forever. Enjoy an afternoon canoe paddle as we discover the history behind this humble bi-valve and the people who made their living on it.   $5/person. Children should be at least 8 years old. Life jackets, paddles, and canoes are provided. Space is limited, pre-registration is required. Please call the park office at (804) 462-5030 or stop by the Camp Store.        Location - Boat Launch/Campstore    Phone - (804) 462-5030

09/24/2016    National Day of Service,National Public Lands & Stewardship Virginia Roadway Clean-up   10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.   Lend a hand as we clean litter from along the roadsides of Belle Isle Road and River Road. This clean-up helps to keep trash out of our waterways and also beautifies the community for everyone.     Please wear closed toes shoes, bring your work gloves and a water bottle. Children must be accompanied by an adult and no children under age 10 will be permitted.         Location - Camp Store    Phone - (804) 462-5030

Chippokes Plantation State Park   Located at 695 Chippokes Park Road Surry VA 23883
09/24/2016    Chippokes Plantation 5K Run   7:30 a.m. - 11:00 a.m.   Put your walking shoes on and get out to the park for the first annual 5k Run sponsored by the Friends of Chippokes. Registration begins at 7:30 a.m. near the Jones-Stewart Mansion and the race starts at 9 a.m. sharp. Ribbons will be awarded to top placers in age groups ranging from 14 and under to 70 plus.    Registration is $15 per participant before September 19 and $20 up to the day of the race. Forms can be picked up at the park office or downloaded from the Friends' website, http://www.chippokes.com . Proceeds from the event are used by the Friends of Chippokes to promote and support historic, natural, and recreational resources at the park. For more information about the race, call Patricia Pauley at 757-615-2518.        Location - Jones-Stewart Mansion    Phone - (757) 294-3439

09/24/2016    National Public Lands Day & Stewardship VA-Garden Workday in Paradise   10:00 a.m. - 11:30 a.m.   National Public Lands Day is a nation-wide event that draws hundreds of thousands of visitors to parks in order to get them involved in natural resource conservation. Stewardship Virginia recognizes and praises the work volunteers do to keep our state parks aesthetically pleasing and environmentally safe. We are encouraging people to savor the first days of fall weather with a Garden Workday in Paradise. We will be focusing on the formal Paradise Gardens behind the Jones-Stewart Mansion, sprucing up the flower beds and getting the garden ready for the winter. Follow in the footsteps of Evelyn Stewart, an avid gardener and conservationist who designed most of the Paradise Gardens. Leave your mark on the park for generations to come. Please wear clothes and shoes you do not mind getting dirty. Gloves and tools will be provided. Please wear sunscreen and bring water.      Location - Meet in front of the Friends of Chippokes Gift Shop at the mansion grounds.    Phone - (757) 294-3439

Claytor Lake State Park   Located at 6620 Ben H. Bolen Drive Dublin VA 24084
09/01/2016 - 10/31/2016    Stewardship Virginia Fall   8:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.   Fall is here! After another successful and busy season there is much work at hand. There are projects to complete, things to clean, and services to be done as we get ready for winter. Contact us to volunteer to lend a helpful hand. Participants will receive a certificate from the Governor in recognition of volunteer service. Contact the Park Office at 540-643-2500 or email the park at [email protected] to schedule a time to volunteer.     Location - Park Office: Howe House    Phone - (434) 572-4623

09/17 & 24/2016    Virginia State Parks History and Culture - Claytor Lake History Tour   11:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.   Join a park interpreter to learn how our beautiful lake came to be, the story behind the Howe House and the Christian Chimney, and the fascinating history of the lake's past inhabitants.    Location - Park Office: Howe House    Phone - (540) 643-2500
Douthat State Park   Located at 14239 Douthat State Park Road Millboro VA 24460
09/16/2016 - 09/18/2016    Campsite Cook Off   8:00 a.m. - 8:00 p.m.   Be a part of our weekend long inaugural Campsite Cook-off at Douthat State Park. This is no ordinary cook-off and it will put our creativity to the test. What makes this such a unique event? The meat for the cook-off will be provided by the park but participants will not know the type of meat until it is time to cook. Cooks must supply their own secret seasonings to make their dish a standout.  Each night, Friday and Saturday, teams will be given the meat to prepare overnight; tastings will follow the next day. Live music will be available throughout the weekend for both participants and spectators to enjoy.  There is limited space so teams must pre-register.  There is a $120 registration fee which includes the meat and two nights of camping in the Whispering Pines Campground.  Registration opens March 1, 2016. To register or for the rules and regulations, please call the park at 540-862-8114.    Location - Whispering Pines Campground    Phone - (540) 862-8100

09/24/2016    National Public Lands Day   10:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m.   Meet a park ranger at Camp Carson picnic shelter for a volunteer opportunity to clean up the park's kid's fishing area. Together we can make a difference! All ages are free to help.     We will be picking up litter, downed sticks and limbs.  You bring the muscle and Douthat State Park will bring the tools.  Remember to dress for the weather and wear closed-toed shoes.    Participants will receive a signed letter from the Governor.         Location - Camp Carson Picnic Shelter    Phone - (540) 862-8100

Fairy Stone State Park   Located at 967 Fairystone Lake Drive Stuart VA 24171
09/24/2016    National Day of Service & Remembrance, National Public Lands Day, Stewardship VA   10:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m.   Join us in a Fairy Stone Hunt Site Clean-up. We will share a moment of silence, and then head to the Fairy Stone Hunt Site to clean up any litter or trash that we see in the area. After we are done cleaning up the site, we can spend a little extra time to look for some fairy stones.    Location - Meet at the Visitor Center    Phone - (276) 930-2424

False Cape State Park   Located at 4001 Sandpiper Road Virginia Beach VA 23456
09/17/2016    International Coastal Cleanup & Stewardship Virginia   9:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.   International Coastal Cleanup is the largest and most successful volunteer event of its kind. Since 1986 thousands of volunteers from around the globe have cleared over 100 million pounds of trash from 170,000 miles of shorelines, rivers, lakes, and wetlands!  On Saturday, September 17th, hundreds of thousands of people will descend on beaches, lakes, and streams all over the world to remove trash and debris on land and under the water. Volunteers of all ages from every continent will form the largest one-day volunteer event on behalf of clean oceans and waterways.    Reservations are required, space is limited. For more information and to make your reservation call 757-426-7128  FREE    Location - Meet at Back Bay National Wildilfe Refuge for transport into False Cape    Phone - (434) 572-4623

First Landing State Park   Located at 2500 Shore Drive Virginia Beach VA 23451
09/24/2016    Nat. Public Lands Day & International Coastal Clean Up - A Stewardship Virginia Event   9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.   For more than 25 years, Ocean Conservancy's International Coastal Cleanup has become the world's largest volunteer effort for ocean health. Nearly nine million volunteers from 152 countries and locations have cleaned 145 million pounds of trash from the shores of lakes, streams, rivers, and the ocean on just one day each year.    First Landing is participating in the International Coastal Clean Up with beach clean up. What better way to serve your community than by keeping the waterways free of trash! If you would like to participate in this event you MUST PRE-REGISTER by emailing your name and the number of participants you are planning to bring to [email protected]     Location - Chesapeake Bay Center     Phone - (757) 412-2300

Grayson Highlands State Park   Located at 829 Grayson Highlands Lane Mouth Of Wilson VA 24363
09/17/2016    Stewardship Fall: Milkweed and Monarchs   11:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.   The monarch butterfly needs our help! The number of monarch butterflies has decreased by 90% over the last 25 years. In addition, the monarch caterpillar's only food source, milkweed, is also down by 90%.     Lend a helping hand to create more monarch butterfly habitat for these precious pollinators. We will be planting milkweed seeds in Haw Flats field so that they will sprout in the spring.    All volunteers will receive a signed certificate from Governor McAuliffe. The Stewardship Virginia is a statewide bi-annual event to recognize volunteers that are working hard to preserve Virginia's resources. Meet at the park office. We will be walking less than one mile on moderate terrain. Be prepared to get your hands a little dirty.     For more information on Stewardship Virginia and Save the Monarch, please visit:  http://www.dcr.virginia.gov/environmental-education/stewardship        Location - Park Office    Phone - (434) 572-4623

09/24 & 25/2016    Annual Fall Harvest Festival   10:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.   Virginia's traditional mountain culture comes alive during this two-day festival. The air fills with bluegrass and old-time music as well as the sweet aroma of barbecued chicken and sorghum molasses. Enjoy the crafts fair and numerous demonstrations of pioneer living. It's sponsored by the Rugby Rescue Squad and Ladies Auxiliary. A wild pony sale, sponsored by the Wilburn Ridge Pony Association, is held at 2 p.m. on Saturday. Admission is $10 per car. For more information, visit http://www.ghfallfestival.50megs.com/index.html.    Location - Picnic area    Phone - (540) 854-5503

09/24/2016    Virginia State Parks History and Culture: The Good Ole Days   12:00 p.m. - 1:00 p.m.   Take a trip back in time, to a simpler way of life! We will experience the landscape and hardships as one of the first settlers of this area in the 1760's. Learn how they managed to survive in this harsh environment as we reconsider the saying, "the good ole days."     If there is inclement weather, please meet at the Visitor Center for a tour of the museum.         Location - Homestead Area    Phone - (276) 579-7092

Holliday Lake State Park   Located at 2759 State Park Road Appomattox VA 24522
09/01/2016 - 10/31/2016    Stewardship Virginia - Fall      This statewide volunteer opportunity, held twice a year in the spring and fall, gives you the chance to leave a positive mark on our public lands. All participants will receive a certificate signed by the Governor of Virginia as a token of our appreciation.    National Public Lands Day: Lake Cleanup (Saturday, September 24, 2:00 p.m.) - Clean water is a vital part of Virginia's complex ecosystem. Come help us pick up litter around the lake in canoes while learning about the importance of a healthy habitat. See other listing for more information about this program.    Please contact the Park Office by phone or email if you have a group that would like to perform a Stewardship Virginia project sometime in September or October.      Location - Beach Area    Phone - (434) 572-4623

09/24/2016    National Public Lands Day & Stewardship Virginia: Lake Clean-up   2:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m.   In cooperation with the National Environmental Education Foundation and Clean Virginia Waterways, Holliday Lake State Park will be holding a lake cleanup event during National Public Lands Day and the International Coastal Cleanup. Trash in the water not only affects the wildlife here at the park but can have negative impacts further downstream as well.    This program is also part of the statewide Stewardship Virginia initiative, and participants will receive a certificate signed by the Governor of Virginia as a token of our appreciation. Pre-registration is required to use canoes, but participants may also walk trails to pick up litter. Please wear clothes that can get wet and dirty, and sign up by calling or emailing the Park Office. Join us to create a positive impact on our public lands.    Location - Beach Area    Phone - (434) 248-6308

Hungry Mother State Park   Located at 2854 Park Boulevard Marion VA 24354
09/01/2016 - 09/30/2016    Stewardship Virginia Fall   8:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.   Fall has finally arrived and we have lots of volunteer opportunities at Hungry Mother State Park. Get a group together and contact the park at 781-7415 to schedule a project geared to the interests of your group. A few of the projects we have available are picking up sticks and raking leaves out of the campgrounds, performing trail maintenance; raking and removing debris off of your favorite trails, picking up trash in the lake by canoeing, and picking up trash throughout the park.         Location - Discovery Center    Phone - (434) 572-4623

09/17/2016    Virginia State Parks History and Culture   11:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.  New Time   The iconic culture of Southwest Virginia is still alive and well amongst several regions, Hungry Mother State Park being one of them. Spend the day at the park and discover what a strong influence the history and culture has had on this area.     11:00 a.m.: Drawing From Nature. Often times, the best way to connect with nature is through journaling. Join the interpreter and discover some journaling tips as you make your own journal. Afterwards, we'll take a short hike. Meet at Camp Burson's Amphitheater. FREE.       1:00 p.m.: CCC Historical Walk. You have a shovel and a field, what do you do?  You clear the way to create a lake. In 1936, the Civilian Conservation Corp members did just that at what is now Hungry Mother State Park.  Many of the original CCC structures are still in use today. Which ones you ask? Join an Interpreter as they walk you through history. Meet at Parking Lot 6. FREE        3:00 p.m.: Games of the Past. Join the Interpreters and play a few Native American Games, getting a glimpse into the Cherokee culture and history. Meet at the Boat Ramp area off Mitchell Valley Road. FREE        Location - Various locations throughout the park    Phone - (276) 781-7400

Kiptopeke State Park   Located at 3540 Kiptopeke Drive Cape Charles VA 23310
09/17/2016    Virginia State Parks Historical and Culture Program - Meet the McCloskeys   1:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m.   Do you enjoy Kayaking? Would you like to learn about the history of Kiptopeke State Park? Join us as we paddle out to the concrete ships for a historical lesson from a different perspective. $9 per person. Space is limited to 10 kayaks. Remember to bring water and sun screen.    Location - Waterfront Shed across from the Boat Ramp    Phone - (757) 331-2267

Lake Anna State Park   Located at 6800 Lawyers Road Spotsylvania VA 22551
09/17/2016    Wine by the Lake   11:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.   Join us for wine tasting on the shores of beautiful Lake Anna. The festival showcases Virginia wineries, great local food and vendors, and music. While there, visit the Ranger Table to learn about nature, make a fire with flint and steel, pet a skunk and see live reptiles. General admission covers access to the festival, a free sample wine glass, live music and access to food vendors. Early bird admission through Aug. 15 is $20 (includes parking); Pre-sale general admission between Aug. 16 and Sept. 18 is $25 (includes parking); At the gate general admission on Sept. 19 is $25 (does not include parking). Group discounts are available. For more information, visit http://winebythelake.com.     Location - Lake Front    Phone - (540) 854-5503

09/21/2016    Home School Classes - Bats Above Us   10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.   Fly on over and listen to the only flying mammal in the world. Discover how you can help local populations and even entice natures "bug zappers" to come to your yard. We'll see a video that has captured their unique calls while catching prey in slow motion.     We offer VA SOL based activities each month (except the month of Dec.) to our area home school families. Each two hour session addresses several different learning styles and incorporates an outdoor exploratory component whenever possible.   Please contact Ranger Lauri at [email protected] for a schedule of each activity or further details.  Pre-registration is required. Some sessions have limited space, $2 each    To register for any of our programming in advance, please call the Visitor Center at (540) 854-6245 and leave a message if no answer. Please tell us your name, number in your group, and a contact phone number.    Location - Visitor Center    Phone - (540) 854-5503

09/23/2016    Nature Journaling Workshop   10:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.   Looking for a special way to preserve your memories of your visits in Nature? Join our ranger and discover this adventure tool that you'll enjoy for generations to come. You'll unleash your inner artist and gain confidence while learning various techniques and page layout ideas.   This workshop will teach you how to make your own journal to keep.  $10 fee per journal made.  Space is limited to the first 12 confirmed registrations. Registration ends the Monday before each workshop.    To register for any of our programming in advance, please leave a message on the Visitor Center answering machine at (540) 854-6245 with your name, number in your group, and a contact phone number.    Location - Visitor Center    Phone - (540) 854-5503

09/24/2016    LA Giant Acorn International   9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.   The Giant Acorn is an end of season ritual for hundreds of tri-athletes throughout the region. You can expect crystal clear water, a sandy beach start for the 1500M swim and an immaculate park to enjoy during the 10K run with lots of activities for the kids. The 42K bike course is now one loop and a big ring flyer!   Click here for a course map, http://tinyurl.com/nyq9eqh  This event benefits many local community groups and organizations for their support of this event. In particular, we would like for you to consider making an additional donation to the High School Athletic Teams or the Knights of Columbus that come out to support this event.  All donations will be distributed amongst the participating teams and groups.   Follow this link to register or for further info: http://www.vtsmts.com/giantacorninternational    Location - Start/Finish: Beach    Phone - (540) 854-5503

09/25/2016    LA Giant Acorn Sprint   9:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.   The Giant Acorn is an end of season ritual for hundreds of tri-athletes throughout the region. You can expect crystal clear water, a sandy beach start, and an immaculate park with lots of activities for the kids. The bike course is the same as the Kinetic Sprint and consists of 3 turns outside of the park. This is the last weekend of racing in the 2015 Virginia Triathlon Series.  This link takes you to our course map encompassing the 750 meter swim, 15.5 mile bike and 5K run: http://tinyurl.com/l4rpmzv   Papa John's will be at the race site once again to provide hot food for the athletes and for sale to spectators. There will be coffee and bagels available for purchase by spectators starting at 8 a.m. and pizza will be available for purchase starting at 11 a.m.   Follow this link to register or for further info call: 757-570-9934 or log onto: http://www.vtsmts.com/giantacornsprint    Location - Start/Finish: Beach    Phone - (540) 854-5503

Leesylvania State Park   Located at 2001 Daniel K. Ludwig Drive Woodbridge VA 22191
09/20/2016    Friends of Leesylvania Monthly Meeting   7:30 p.m. - 8:30 p.m.   The Friends of Leesylvania State Park help the park serve visitors and protect the park's natural resources. The group raises money and supports park programs such as the Junior Rangers, Free Kids Fishing Tournaments, and Haunted History Hikes. Friends also help guests and promote the park's unique nature and history, as well as fishing, boating and more. Members have many interests and various backgrounds. There are several membership options. Feel free to email Friends of Leesylvania ([email protected]) to learn more or come to one of their meetings. They meet the third Tuesday of each month.       Location - Visitor Center    Phone - (276) 445-3065

09/24/2016 - 09/25/2016    VA State Parks History and Culture - Anniversary of the Potomac River Blockade 1861    10:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.   Join our living historians as they camp at Freestone Point, the preserved site of the Confederate Gun Battery during the Blockade of the Potomac. Discover the story of the Battery and see artillery demonstrations, what camp life was like, and talk to historians as they discuss the lives of the soldiers, women and children left behind. The event also celebrates Virginia State Parks History and Culture Month.     Location - Visitor Center and by Shelter #2    Phone - (703) 730-8205

09/24/2016    Get Nuts for National Public Lands Day   10:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.   Help Potomac Conservancy kick off the Growing Native season here at Leesylvania State Park.    Volunteers of all ages and backgrounds are welcome to help collect native tree seeds in this beautiful and historic park. These seeds will go to local nurseries that grow trees for reforesting efforts across the region. Not only will you be creating forests for tomorrow, you will also learn more about the important connection between healthy, forested lands and clean waters. Stick around after you've done your part for the river for a picnic lunch on us.    What you need: Close-toed shoes and Sharp nut-spotting eyes    What we provide everything else! All tools, drinking water, and supplies will be provided by Potomac Conservancy and Leesylvania State Park.    Check-in is between 9:30 a.m. and 10. It is important that you arrive on time so that we can get started with instructions and a brief Tree-ID lesson at 10 a.m.     Tell the ranger at the gate that you are there for the volunteer event for free admission.    Please register at https://www.eventbrite.com/e/get-nuts-for-public-lands-tickets-26876603645    Location - Visitor Center    Phone - (703) 730-8205

Mason Neck State Park   Located at 7301 High Point Road Lorton VA 22079
09/24/2016    National Public Lands Day: ''Adopt A Trail'' Day at Mason Neck State Park!   9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.   Join us in celebrating National Public Lands Day by adopting a trail for the day!  Our park trails are utilized year round by visitors from near and far.  Unfortunately, discarded trash is often blown upon the trails or is inadvertently dropped by hikers.  Additionally, Mother Nature often contributes with downed branches or trees.  Your volunteer services are needed to come out and patrol our trails, pick up trash, and observe any potential hazards or repairs that may be needed.  Dress for the weather, wear sturdy shoes.  Park rangers will meet you and provide you with gloves and trash bags.  We appreciate your support in helping to maintain a more natural, trash-free habitat for wildlife, plants, and birds that reside at Mason Neck State Park!  This event is appropriate for all ages.    Location - Front of Visitor Center    Phone - (703) 339-2385

Natural Bridge State Park   Located at 6477 South Lee Highway Natural Bridge VA 24578
09/24/2016    National Public Lands Day and the opening of Natural Bridge State Park   8:00 a.m. - 10:00 p.m.   Help us celebrate the opening of the 37th Virginia State Park, appropriately on National Public Lands Day. The opening celebration begins 10 a.m. Entrance fees to the park will be waived. Complimentary shuttles to the bridge area begin at 8:30 a.m. Spend the day and explore the Monacan Village and the new park. The Dancing Chicken Band, https://www.facebook.com/TheDancingChickenBand, performs from 7-9 p.m. (Natural Bridge Caverns is not part of Natural Bridge State Park and not included in the special free admission for the day.)    Location - Throughout the park    Phone - (540) 291-2121

Natural Tunnel State Park   Located at 1420 Natural Tunnel Parkway Duffield VA 24244
09/24/2016    National Public Lands Day & Stewardship Virginia   9:30 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.   Natural Tunnel needs your help. The park is looking for individuals to help clean up an old home site near Stock Creek. Tasks are picking up trash, gathering wood, and placing heavy objects in the back of dump trucks. If you are looking for volunteer hours for school or for scholarships this is a good opportunity.  To sign-up call (276) 940-1643 or e-mail [email protected].       Location - The Visitor Center Parking Lot    Phone - (276) 940-2674

New River Trail State Park   Located at 176 Orphanage DR Max Meadows VA 24360
09/15/2016    Train Tour Foster Falls to Cliffview   8:45 a.m. - 3:30 p.m.   All aboard Foster Falls Express!   All aboard was a common phrase that echoed here, prior to 1955, as trains traveled along what's now New River Trail State Park. Once again this opportunity will be made possible, experience the beauty, serenity and wonderment that New River Trail has to offer. We will be offering guided train rides from Foster Falls to Cliffview ranger station, this is an all day event so please be prepared for all weather conditions, please bring sun screen, bug repellent, and plenty of water.  A box lunch and brochures will be provided; space is limited so preregistration is required for this event. Fee: $25.00 per person or $20.00 per person for groups of 4 or more must be paid upon reservation. No pets are allowed, service animals are permitted. For registration or more information on this event please call the park office at (276)699-6778.    Location - Foster Falls Depot    Phone - (276) 699-6778

09/17/2016    The New River Trail Challenge   8:00 a.m. - 8:00 p.m.   This yearly race attracts athletes ranging from hardcore solo competitors to "bucket-listers." The race, which features a 40-mile bike ride, 12-mile kayak ride and 13.1-mile half marathon, allows individuals and teams. Registration is on Friday, Sept. 16, 4-8 p.m., and on race day Saturday, Sept. 17 from 6 to 7:30 a.m. The race takes place from 8:30 a.m. to 8 p.m. Food and local craft beer will be available for purchase during and after the race for spectators and participants. See http://tinyurl.com/nv4rcsp for the rules and http://tinyurl.com/p5zrvko for more detail, including fees.    Location - The New River Trail State Park    Phone - (276) 699-6778

09/17 & 18, 24 & 25/2016    Virginia State Parks History and Culture   10:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.   Overlooking the New River, the Shot Tower was built more than 200 years ago to make ammunition for the early settlers. Lead from the nearby Austinsville Mines was melted in a kettle atop the 75-foot tower and poured through a sieve, falling through the tower and an additional 75-foot shaft beneath the tower into a kettle of water. So step back in time with a tour of the Shot Tower and enjoy its beautiful view over the New River.        Location - Shot Tower    Phone - (276) 699-6778

09/22/2016    Train Tour Cliffview to Foster Falls   8:45 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.   All aboard Foster Falls Express!   All aboard was a common phrase that echoed here, prior to 1955, as trains traveled along what is now New River Trail State Park. Once again this opportunity will be made possible for you to experience the beauty, serenity and wonderment that New River Trail has to offer. We will be offering a guided train ride from Foster Falls to Cliffview ranger station, this is an all day event so please be prepared for all weather conditions, please bring sun screen, bug repellent, and plenty of water.  A box lunch and brochures will be provided; space is limited so preregistration is required for this event. Fee: $25.00 per person or $20.00 per person for groups of 4 or more must be paid upon reservation. No pets are allowed, service animals are permitted. For registration or more information on this event please call the park office at (276)699-6778.    Location - Cliffview Depot    Phone - (276) 699-6778

Occoneechee State Park   Located at 1192 Occoneechee Park Road Clarksville VA 23927
09/18/2016    Virginia State Parks History and Culture   8:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.   Celebrate Occoneechee State Park's history by enjoying any of the programs being offered today about the park's history. Learn about the Occoneechee Indians that once called this area home, or walk where the old plantation stood in the Terrace Gardens area, or maybe create some history of your own hiking some of our miles of trail system. The choice is yours.    Hiking Trails - Park wide  Self-Guided Nature Trail - Tutelo Birding Trail Head  Old Plantation Self-Guided Interpretive Trail - Terrace Garden Parking area  Museum Self Tour - Visitor Center      Location - Parkwide    Phone - (434) 374-2210

09/24/2016    National Day of Service and Remembrance, Public Lands Day & Stewardship Virginia   9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.   Come show your support for Occoneechee by supporting a park clean up initiative. This will be dependent on weather and lake level on what area of the park will be cleaned but could include the shoreline to clean up debris that comes ashore or trails to clear sticks and trash that accumulates along the trails that we all enjoy.    Location - Visitor's Center    Phone - (434) 374-2210

Pocahontas State Park   Located at 10301 State Park Road Chesterfield VA 23832
09/17/2016    Pocahontas Premieres: Zoso the ultimate Led Zeppelin Experience   7:00 p.m. - 10:00 p.m.   The band recreates the music, magic and mystery of a Zeppelin concert. If you missed Led Zeppelin live in the 70s or are looking for a chance to relive the Hammer of the Gods phenomenon, don't miss this show. To learn more visit http://www.zosoontour.com      Gates open at 6 p.m. Advanced tickets $12.00, day of show $15.00. A $5.00 parking fee applies. 10 and under free. Tickets can be purchased online at http://www.ticketstobuy.com  or at the park's office. Food and adult beverages available for purchase. Please bring proper ID. No pets or coolers permitted       Location - Heritage Amphitheater    Phone - (804) 796-4255

09/20/2016    Friends of Pocahontas State Park Meeting   6:30 p.m. - 8:30 p.m.  New Time   The Friends of Pocahontas State Park is a 501c3 volunteer organization of interested citizens that actively support the park.  The group works on behalf of the park by assisting in daily programs, special events, fund raising, and public education.  The partnership provides a mechanism to use the skills, contacts, and resources of private citizens and businesses to improve services that may not otherwise be available.  Activities include trail maintenance, interpretive programs, and construction projects, just to name a few.     Monthly meetings are held on the 3rd Tuesday of each month and the parking fee is waived    Attend a meeting and discover Pocahontas State Park through the Friends Group.     Location - Heritage Center    Phone - (804) 796-4255

09/24/2016    National Public Lands Day & Stewardship Virginia   9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.   Our public lands are a wonderful treasure from which we can all derive joy, peace, and health.  National Public Lands Day is a great opportunity to do your part to make sure that treasure lasts.  Volunteers are needed to perform fall trail maintenance on some of our well-used trails. The park will provide tools, safety equipment, and instruction. Participants should bring work gloves, water, and snacks. The Stewardship Virginia program will be recognizing participants' efforts with a certificate from the governor.     Location - Swift Creek Boat Launch    Phone - (804) 796-4255

09/25/2016    Pocahontas Live: George Thorogood & The Destroyers   6:30 p.m. - 10:00 p.m.   George Thorogood is an American musician, singer and songwriter from Wilmington, Delaware. His "high-energy boogie-blues" sound became a staple of 1980s rock radio, with hits like his original songs "Bad to the Bone" and "I Drink Alone"    General Admission: $25 Adv (plus fees)/$30 door  Gold Circle Reserve: $50Adv (plus fees)/$55 door  Gold Circle General Admission: $37 (plus fees) Adv/$42 door    Doors: 5:30 p.m.    A $7.00 parking fee applies per car.  No pets or coolers permitted. Food available for purchase, adult beverages with proper ID.    Advanced general tickets (only) available for purchase at Park office.  All tickets available for purchase through http://www.ticketstobuy.com        Location - Heritage Ampitheater    Phone - (804) 796-4255

Powhatan State Park   Located at 4616 Powhatan State Park Road Powhatan VA 23239
09/17/2016 - 09/18/2016    Virginia State Parks History and Culture      The public is invited to join us as we celebrate the history and culture Powhatan State Park.     Sassa-What?  September 17  4-5:30 p.m.Learn the Native American Legend of Sassafras and go on an adventure in search of Sassafras within the park. Participants will meet at the main office. Program is free, but parking fees apply.    Dugout Canoe  September 18  10 a.m.-Noon  Join our interpretive rangers as we explore the Monacan Indian approach of dugout canoe building. Participants will enjoy a hands-on experience learning to use fire and simple tools to create a functional canoe from a locally sourced tree. Participants will meet by the canoe/kayak launch. Program is free, but parking fees apply.      Location - See Descriptions    Phone - (804) 598-7148

09/24/2016    Stewardship Virginia-Fall River Clean up   1:00 p.m. - 3:30 p.m.   Volunteer at Powhatan State Park to help keep the bed and banks of the James River clean. Help pick up trash from aboard a canoe with the help of our park rangers. As a "Thank You" for helping each registered volunteer will receive a coupon to use at the Powhatan State Park Gift Shop.    All equipment is provided. Register by calling 804-598-7148 or emailing [email protected]. Space is limited.     Location - Meet at canoe/kayak launch    Phone - (434) 572-4623

09/25/2016    Stewardship Virginia-Invasive Vegetation   1:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m.   Help Powhatan State Park maintain our warm season grass fields. Volunteers are needed to help remove invasive tress and other vegetation out of the warm season grass fields in order to preserve this special habitat. Gloves and cutting tools will be provided. Please register by calling 804-598-7148 or by emailing [email protected].   No Children Please!    Location - Meet at the Trailhead Parking    Phone - (434) 572-4623

Andy Guest/Shenandoah River State Park   Located at 350 Daughters of Stars Drive Bentonville VA 22610
09/24/2016    Stewardship Virginia Fall Project: Annual River Cleanup   11:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.   Join The Friends of Shenandoah River State Park in their annual river cleanup. This is a wonderful way to help the environment and have a great time doing so! Downriver Canoe and Front Royal Canoe companies are generously offering the use of canoes at no charge for the first forty individuals who sign up for this event (two per canoe).     There will be a brief orientation at the main canoe launch and then we'll be transported to the Bentonville low water bridge parking area, where we will put in and float down to the park canoe landing, picking up trash as we go. It should take approximately 3 hours. Also, anyone who wants to help on shore by picking up trash along the river bank and trails is welcome to participate as well.     The minimum age to participate is 6 years old. Children must be accompanied by an adult. To reserve your spot, please call Donna at the park office to register, at 540-622-6840.     Location - Meet at the main canoe launch    Phone - (434) 572-4623

Sky Meadows State Park   Located at 11012 Edmonds Lane Delaplane VA 20144
09/24/2016    National Public Lands Day/Stewardship Virginia   11:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.   Acorn Collection  Join more than 200,000 volunteers at over 2,000 sites throughout the United States as they help restore the splendor of our public lands as part of National Public Lands Day.  In recognition of National Public Lands Day and Stewardship Virginia, Sky Meadows State Park is going nutty! From 11 a.m. to 12 p.m., a Naturalist will be on hand at the Backcountry Trailhead to guide nut collectors to the best spots, or head out on the trails and collect on your own. The collected acorns will be sent to the Virginia Department of Forestry for cultivation.      Cooking with Nuts -- 12 p.m. to 3 p.m.   In honor of our nut-themed National Public Lands Day, we'll be cooking a variety of nut-based recipes on our open hearth. Stop by the Log Kitchen, sample some of our delicious  treats and take recipes to try at home.        Location - Historic Area    Phone - (540) 592-3556

Smith Mountain Lake State Park   Located at 1235 State Park Road Huddleston VA 24104
09/17/2016    Jim Cameron Memorial Walk   9:15 a.m. - 12:15 p.m.   Celebrate a life that always gave back to his community by signing up to walk in the fifth annual Jim Cameron Memorial Walk.     The Jim Cameron Memorial Walk benefits Lake Christian Ministries (LCM) and will take place  rain or shine.    Jim Cameron was the driving force behind LCM during his nine plus years of service as Executive Director. The 5K and 10K Walk routes will honor Mr. Cameron's life and his exemplary service to LCM.      Walkers, runners, individuals and teams are welcome and friendly competition among teams is invited and encouraged.  All proceeds from the Walk will remain in the Smith Mountain Lake Area to help our neighbors in need.    Registration will begin at 9:15 a.m. and the 5K or 10K Walks will start at 10 a.m.      Lunch will follow the Walk, with service beginning at 11 a.m.  Plan to stay and enjoy food, fun and fellowship with your team members and friends.    You can walk 5K or 10K.  For more information about the walk, contact Bart Matthies at (540) 912-9141 or visit http://www.lakechristianministries.org.         Location - Beach Pavilion    Phone - (540) 297-6066

09/21/2016    Wildlife Wednesday Cruise   11:30 a.m. - 2:00 p.m.   All aboard the Virginia Dare for a fun-filled & informative lunch cruise. Join us on the third Wednesday of each month from June thru October to enjoy a delicious lunch while hearing from our park interpreter about the wildlife that call Smith Mountain Lake home. We'll even cruise close to several Osprey platforms on the lake. (There is a fee for this event.)    Cruises run from Noon to 2 p.m. - Boat boards @ 11:30 a.m. at the Virginia Dare Marina    Virginia Dare Cruises & Marina   3619 Airport Road   Huddleston, VA. 24104     Call (540) 297-7100 for price, reservations, or further info.   http://vadarecruises.com      Location - Virginia Dare Cruises & Marina    Phone - (804) 598-7148

09/24/2016    National Public Lands Day/Stewardship Virginia: ''Litter League''   10:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.   Looking for a service project that will benefit multitudes? Here's your chance to really make a difference! Volunteer to help us give our trails a fresh look. Work with a park ranger on trail maintenance and help keep our public lands safe and beautiful. We supply trash bags, gloves, water, & a snack. Collect litter & recyclables from throughout the park and win prizes. Enjoy a day of fresh air, as well as some of the best views of the lake while you help keep the park beautiful.  This is a Stewardship Virginia event. Stewardship Virginia is a statewide initiative held twice annually to help citizens with projects that enhance and conserve Virginia's natural and cultural resources. Certificates will be awarded to those who pre-register at the park. For additional information on this event, or to pre-register, call 540-297-6066.Click the link below for more information on becoming a Virginia State Park volunteer. http://tinyurl.com/nzxsw2f     Location - Visitor Center parking lot.    Phone - (540) 592-3556

Southwest Virginia Museum State Park   Located at 10 West 1st Street North Big Stone Gap VA 24219
09/24/2016    Adventures in History: Bus Tour to Grayson Highlands Fall Festival   8:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m.   Hop on the museum's bus for a fall trip to the Grayson Highlands Fall Festival. The bus will arrive at the park just after the festival day begins, allowing participants to explore festival offerings until 3 p.m. The tour fee is $25 per person.    Location - Park Front Gate    Phone - (276) 523-1322

09/24/2016    National Day of Service and Remembrance - 'Songs of Service'   5:30 p.m. - 7:30 p.m.   Join us as we hold a special recognition and remembrance volunteer event to say a public "thank you" to first responders and community servants.    Location - Back Lawn    Phone - (276) 523-1322

Staunton River State Park   Located at 1170 Staunton Trail Scottsburg VA 24589
09/24/2016    Virginia Land Stewardship and Service Day   9:30 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.   Lend a hand at Staunton River State Park as we plant native ferns as an accent to the Main Entrance Sign. Already embraced by fashioned timbers and a stone foundation, the sign needs local ferns to add life and greenery as the final theme. The ranger leading the project will educate participants on the roles ferns play in the environment while they are being planted. Hand tools and gloves will be provided, but bring boots and elbow grease to get the job done right! Children are welcome but must have a responsible adult present for supervision.    Location - Main Entrance Sign    Phone - (804) 492-4410

Staunton River Battlefield State Park   Located at 1035 Fort Hill Trail Randolph VA 23962
09/24/2016    Stewardship Virginia Fall - Butterfly Tagging Event   9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.   We are seeking volunteers to join park staff in tagging Monarch Butterflies. Discover why it is important to tag Monarchs and provide habitats for all pollinators. We will provide the materials needed.        Location - Clover Visitor Center    Phone - (434) 572-4623

Westmoreland State Park   Located at 145 Cliff Road Montross VA 22520
09/17/2016    Music on the Cliffs Presents: Kevin Quinn and Friends   6:30 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.   Westmoreland State Park welcomes Kevin Quinn and Friends, as they entertain you with some sizzling jazz and soulful blues. If your love to hear a saxophone, you are in for a treat. Grab a blanket, pack a picnic and bring the family out and enjoy the end of summer from high atop the cliffs over looking the Potomac River.  Coolers are welcome but no alcohol please. The event is free. Parking fees apply.    The Music on the Cliffs concert series is made possible by sponsorship from the Friends of Westmoreland.        Location - On the cliffs behind the Visitor Center    Phone - (757) 412-2300

09/24/2016    National Public Lands Day / Stewardship Virginia      10 a.m. - 12 noon - National Public Lands Day is a great opportunity to help a local or favorite public land near you. Join as at the Discovery Center where we will begin the trail clean-up along our CC trail. Bring your gloves and we will provide the trash bags.    1 p.m. to 2 p.m. - Join us at the Boathouse for our Stewardship Virginia project.  Clean the beach after a busy summer.  Bring gloves and we will bring the trash bags.  We will clean trash from the beach along the Potomac River.        Location - Various Locations    Phone - (804) 493-8821

Wilderness Road State Park   Located at 8051 Wilderness Road Ewing VA 24248
09/16 & 17, 23 & 24/2016    Candlelight Ghost Tour and Haunted Dinner   8:00 p.m. - 10:00 p.m.   You are invited to tour the hallowed grounds of Wilderness Road State Park. Visitors will experience a candlelit tour with chilling ghost stories based on actual historical events. Retrace the steps of lost souls on the Wilderness Road, visit Uncle Jack's barn and feel the hair on your neck raise in anticipation as you enter the Karlan Mansion for a haunted dinner experience you won't forget. Advanced tickets are required. Tickets are $10 per person.    Location - Wilderness Road Trail and Karlan Mansion    Phone - (276) 445-3065


09/24/2016    National Day of Service and Remembrance, Public Lands Day, Stewardship VA   9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.  New Time   A special rememberance ceremony for the victims of September 11, 2001 will be conducted by park staff.  They will also lead a landscaping initiative at the park, as part of Stewardship Virginia, by mulching a path to the Nature Center. A day to get outdoors, enjoy nature and give back to the land. Preserving land is important for future generations to enjoy, learn from and live off of. So if you're interested in lending a hand, come to the park for this this fun and educational program based on an initiative by the National Environment Education Foundation.      Location - Visitor Center    Phone - (276) 445-3065

All Other Events
At times it may become necessary to cancel or change the date or time of an event.  If you are planning to visit us based on a specific event you may want to call ahead to verify that there have been no changes.

Due to the large number of events in this edition we are not able to list them all.
You can link to a list of events from 09/15/2016 To 09/25/2016 by clicking on your favorite park.


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