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| Weekly Newsletter | September 29, 2016 |
Rocking Chair Reflections at Sailor's Creek Battlefield Lee Wilcox, Chief Ranger, Sailor's Creek Battlefield State Park
 Each year, for the past several years, Sailor's Creek Battlefield Historical State Park has hosted a popular lecture series during the month of October known as the "Rocking Chair Reflections". Offered each Sunday afternoon at 2 p.m. inside the Battlefield Visitor Center, these family-friendly, free admission programs tap into the spirit of the old "fireside chats"; when American families tuned in to their radios to listen to the President speak to the nation.
Drawing on the inspiration from those nostalgic moments of yesteryear, the Rocking Chair Reflections lecture series strives to entertain and enlighten a new generation of listeners with high-quality programming delivered by renowned guest speakers, Civil War historians and the Battlefield's very own Education Specialists.
This year we have an outstanding line up of three professional speakers ready to regale us with fascinating stories about the War...oh, and also a fourth speaker bringing up the rear who isn't on the same par as his fellow lecturers, but is just as enthusiastic about his topic of discussion.
The lecture series kicks off on Sunday, October 2 with a presentation entitled "Marching out of Formation" by National Park Service Ranger Ernie Price, Chief of Interpretation and Education at Appomattox Court House National Historical Park. The subject matter examines what happened to the Confederate soldiers following the surrender of General Lee's Army in April 1865. Paroled by their captors the beleaguered veterans, former members of an Army that had dissolved, citizens of a nation that had ceased to exist and many, many miles away from home where the prospects awaiting them were a complete unknown, the transition to a post-war era of peace seemed daunting indeed.
On Sunday, October 9, National Park Service Ranger Patrick Schroeder, Chief Historian from Appomattox Court House National Historical Park will deliver a very unique, first person, living history performance of two gentlemen attending a soldiers reunion in 1891. As members of "The Grand Army of the Republic", a veterans organization devoted to the welfare of the Union soldier, these aging warriors reminisce about their exploits and experiences after four years of fighting and achieving victory in the American Civil War.
 For all of the navy buffs out there, Sunday, October 16 promises to be a real treat! Renowned author, historian, philanthropist and "master storyteller" John Quarstein, who spends his working days as the Director of the USS Monitor Center & Foundation at the Mariners Museum in Norfolk, will entertain us with his unique, gregarious, theatrical delivery style as he describes "The Battle of Hampton Roads". This epic 1862 clash of naval vessels was the first of its kind in which the CSS Virginia and the USS Monitor, both state-of-the-art, never before seen ironclad warships slugged it out to a draw, unwittingly rendering all navies around the world obsolete overnight.
And, last on the docket, Sunday October 23, is yours truly, the amateurish yet enthusiastic speaker, Lee Wilcox, Chief Ranger at Sailor's Creek Battlefield Historical State Park, shedding light on one of the darker chapters of the American Civil War. As Union forces tried in vain to dislodge the rebels occupying Fort Sumter with their warships and land-based heavy artillery, while simultaneously dodging projectiles from the large batteries returning fire from the fort, they decided to use several hundred Confederate prisoners of war as human shields to deter the rebel gunners from shooting at them for fear of hitting their own brothers-in-arms. Ultimately, the effort collapsed and those prisoners who survived the experience were forever after labeled "The Immortal 600". One such survivor was Captain James Moses Hillsman, patriarch of the Hillsman farmhouse that was used as a field hospital during the Battles of Sailor's Creek.
With the 2016 edition of the Rocking Chair Reflections lecture series primed and ready to start this coming weekend, we hope you and your family will partake in this Battlefield tradition and spend a Sunday afternoon in October with us as we strive to deliver another stellar year of entertaining, enlightening and educational programming that will surely leave a lasting impression to come back for more.
Click Here for a location map of Sailor's Creek Battlefield Historical State Park. |
Wayne Mefford to Host Community Coffee House
Retha Cole, Education Specialist, Southwest Virginia Museum
 Southwest Virginia Museum Historical State Park will host its First Saturday Community Coffee House on Saturday, October 1, from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. Wayne Mefford will serve as the featured host for this month's Coffee House.
Wayne Mefford, from Wise, VA., has been a musician for over 45 years. He has played southern gospel, oldies and blues for many years. Wayne has recently showcased these years, by putting together a "Legends of Wise County" concert, where a plethora of musicians, including Mefford, himself came together to pay homage to the great musicians in our area. Mefford is looking forward to playing different types of music at this month's Coffee House.
The First Community Coffee House is an open-mic event and is open to all family-friendly performers. All interested musicians, storytellers, and poets should arrive by 6:30 p.m. for sign-up and scheduling. Admission is free to this program. Refreshments will be available for purchase.
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. |
2017 Master Naturalist Training by Award Winning Pocahontas Chapter Shellie Anne
 Calling all wildlife, nature and science lovers, this may interest you.
Pocahontas Chapter of Virginia Master Naturalists is now accepting applications for Master Naturalist Training Classes at Pocahontas State Park in Chesterfield County, Virginia.
Click Here to learn how you can apply for the classes.
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"Humble Beauty"
Nature Journaling Workshop
Mariya Hudick, Education Specialist, Lake Anna State Park
 When someone says, "Nature Journaling", the immediate thought is immaculate artwork of the environment. So many are intrigued by the idea and just as many are turned off by the thought that they are not capable of producing beautiful art. People are hindered by self-criticism, believing that they need to be extraordinary artists or have years of experience. But what if I told you that nature journaling is more about "nature" than it is about "journaling"?
Nature journaling is a method of investigation that taps into our curiosity for the world. It is not a portfolio of exquisite sketches of hummingbirds, oak trees, or the elusive American Beaver. It is not a trophy held to show everyone one's unique artistic talents. Nature journaling is an adventure of self-discovery and a means of reconnecting with the environment. We live in a world of fast paced chaos. From adolescence, we are taught to use our time wisely, cramming as much information as possible into our young minds. By the time we finish school, we are thrown into the highway of adulthood. Always on the go. Always in a rush to get to places. Our technology has allowed us to keep up with daily tasks more efficiently and under a strict time limit.
 Many of us have sought the solitude of nature to rejuvenate ourselves and find quiet in our bustling surroundings. As we take a stroll down the trails, we might spot a dashing cardinal flower. Its red hues are contrasted against the surrounding lush greenery. It is a plant that stands out amongst everything seemingly boring around it. You reach into your pocket and feel that rectangular, metal object. You turn on the screen to have your eyes blinded by the artificial light. When you bring that camera to the flower and snap a picture, your phone is already adjusting the imperfections of the photograph with filters. That flower is forever stored in your phone's memory. That is, until you decide to free up space to take more pictures of moments that you'll probably never look back on again.
The memory of that discovery when you stumbled upon such a unique find is squandered by the need for everything to rush in life. Just like a swollen river that spills and floods the landscape, your moment of tranquility with nature is swept away. We are constantly on the go. We never pause to take in something that makes our planet truly magnificent. When you choose to start a nature journal, you brush aside the overbearing haste and absorb all of the beauty the world has to offer. Your phone is quick to snap while your hand is kind, gentle, and patient in preserving those special memories.
 Now you are on the trail once more. This time you encounter the same cardinal flower. You reach into your bag to pull out a worn down notebook that has seen much in its lifetime. The edges are no longer crisp and sharp. The pages are soft as you hold them down against the wind. You start with the petals and notice that there are three main lobes and two flimsy ones attached at their sides. Running down the middle is a faint line at each petal. Suddenly, you see a long stalk at the back of the flower that has a white tip, overlooking all of the petals below. The lobes meet at a point where they connect at the stem. To your surprise, the stem is also red. But as your eyes travel down, you notice that the color is gradient as it transforms into a rich green. You take a step back and look at the overall picture. The cardinal flower buds at the top in clusters, as it bows its head to the ground. It's almost as if this remarkably stunning plant is trying to make itself less important against the surrounding green vegetation. That sketch is forever marked in your journal as you title it, "Humble Beauty".
 The act of nature journaling is to preserve that memory. It sparks an interest in everything around you, forcing you to slow down from your busy lives. And when you take that time to draw the subject matter, you suddenly learn something new. You become an explorer, a scientist, and an artist, all at once. You have discovered more memories and learned something new with each sketch that you make in your nature journal. It doesn't have to be perfect. It doesn't have to be the next Mona Lisa. The drawing might be jagged; it might be smudged. However, the memory of that moment is never erased.
But where do you begin?
At Lake Anna State Park you can experience that moment as we walk you through the steps of starting your very own nature journal. Join me as we construct the notebook with recycled materials. I will guide you through the basics of sketching to build more confidence in your creations and then take you on a path of discovery as we explore the nature around us.
This three hour workshop will be offered on Saturday, October 22 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Limited to the first 10 registered guests per session. Call the Visitor Center at (540) 854-6245 or email Lauri.Schular@dcr.virginia.gov to sign up. Leave your name, number in your group, and a contact phone number to confirm.
Be prepared to forge memories.
Click Here for a location map of Lake Anna 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. |
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Bear Creek Lake State Park Located at 22 Bear Creek Lake Road Cumberland VA 23040 10/09/2016 Friends of Bear Creek Lake 2:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m. The Friends of Bear Creek Lake State Park hold regularly scheduled meetings and activities and hope that you will be able to join them. The Park is so grateful for the help and support that the Friends Group provides, and encourages all who regularly visit the Park to attend. Meetings are typically held the second Sunday of each month. The September meeting will be a guided canoe tour, led by park staff. October will be a regular business meeting where great ways to enhance the park will be discussed. Please call the office for information on any changes to the schedule, or to be put on the FOBCL mailing list. Hope to see you there! Most of the regular meetings are held at Bear Creek Hall, but please check with the park office for meeting location. Come be a Friend and make new friends! You can contact the Friends by email at friendsofbearcreeklake@gmail.com Location - Bear Creek Hall Phone - (804) 492-4410
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Belle Isle State Park Located at 1632 Belle Isle Road Lancaster VA 22503 10/03/2016 Friends of Belle Isle Meeting 5:00 p.m. - 6:00 p.m. You are invited to attend the monthly meeting of the Friends of Belle Isle State Park. Meetings are a great way to meet fellow Friends members and get involved in the activities that the group supports. The Friends of Belle Isle is a non-profit organization which works to support the park through advocacy, volunteerism, community relations, event/program sponsorship, and fundraising. The group also sponsors the yearly Easter Egg Hunt, Music by the River concert series, and 5K run/walk and Pancake Breakfast. The group meets on the first Monday of the month. For more information, please check out the Friends of Belle Isle Website: http://www.friendsofbelleislestateparkva.org/home.html Location - Visitor Center Phone - (804) 462-5030
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Caledon State Park Located at 11617 Caledon Road King George VA 22485 10/01/2016 Howlin' Coyote 10K Trail Race and WIly Pup Kids Trail Dash 9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. The Howlin' Coyote 10k race starts at 9:30 a.m. The race course takes runners through the shaded park trails and past the Potomac river. Walkers are welcome. This is a dog friendly race. Awards will be given to the top three over all finishers male and female and to the top male and female in each age group. Finishers coins will be awarded. The Wiley Pup Kids Trial Dash takes off at 9 a.m. This 1 mile fun run is for children ages 5-13. Parents are encouraged to join the pups on the run or to serve as course marshals. Every child participating gets a finisher ribbon. Stick around after the races for cold beverages and Chili. Awards for both races will be given out at 11 a.m. Registration: 10K $20 ($25 if received after Sept 14), Wily Pup $5. Pre-registration by mail or on-line at http://racetimingunlimited.org Thank you to our sponsors Hard Times Cafe Downtown, Subway, Sign Works, Wendy Moore DDS, King George Chiropractic and Physical Therapy, and the Friends of Caledon State Park. Don't want to run the race? We need volunteers. Volunteers help the park staff with race timing, check in, manning water stations, and serving as course safety marshals. To volunteer please call us at the park office. We can't do this without you. Location - Race starts at the picnic shelter Phone - (540) 663-3861
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Chippokes Plantation State Park Located at 695 Chippokes Park Road Surry VA 23883 10/08/2016 VA State Parks History and Culture Day at Chippokes 1:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m. Virginia State Parks History and Culture Day is a special event in 2016, for the year marks the 80 anniversary of the park system in the state. History presents itself to us in many forms, but it always reminds us of where we came from and why things are the way they are. Chippokes Plantation State Park will be offering the following programs to celebrate this very special occasion: 1 p.m.-2 p.m. River House Tour Take a tour of one of the oldest standing houses at the park. Meet in front of the River House. 1 p.m.-5 p.m. Jones-Stewart Mansion Tours Come inside the crown jewel of Chippokes' historic houses. Last tour begins at 4:15p.m. Meet on the back porch of the mansion, the side facing the formal gardens. Location - Throughout the Park Phone - (757) 294-3439
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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 ClaytorLake@dcr.virginia.gov to schedule a time to volunteer. Location - Park Office: Howe House Phone - (540) 643-2500
10/01/2016 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
10/08/2016 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
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Douthat State Park Located at 14239 Douthat State Park Road Millboro VA 24460 10/08/2016 Apple Day: A Celebration of Appalachian Heritage and Arts and Crafts Fair 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Apple Day and the Arts and Crafts Fair are combined this year. Enjoy crisp mountain air and beautiful fall foliage. Celebrate the fruits of fall. Enjoy games, hay rides, bluegrass music and great food. See apple butter making, pelt displays, campfire cooking, clogging, and traditional Appalachian artisan and craft demonstrations. The Arts and Crafts Fair features artisans and crafters from throughout the region. See quilts, birdhouses, ceramics, candles, wood crafts, jewelry, photography, baskets and more. Except for parking, it's free. Vendors must register ahead of time by calling the park or visiting www.douthatspeed.org/artscft.htm. Location - Beach Complex Phone - (540) 862-8100
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Fairy Stone State Park Located at 967 Fairystone Lake Drive Stuart VA 24171 10/01/2016 Virginia State Parks History and Culture 11:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. Hike the Lake Shore trail to the spillway with some of our knowledgeable park staff, and along the way learn about who built the park and when the park was constructed. Even people knowledgeable about the park may learn something new on this hike. Come dressed for the weather. The hike will be over moderate terrain and cover about 2 miles. While you are on the hike, you should be able to enjoy some of the fall foliage that the Blue Ridge Mountains are so famous for. Location - Shelter 5 Phone - (276) 930-2424
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False Cape State Park Located at 4001 Sandpiper Road Virginia Beach VA 23456 10/01/2016 Virginia State Parks History and Culture - What's in a Name? False Cape State Park 9:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. Does old settlements, shipwrecks, life-saving stations, gunning clubs and maritime folklore interest you? Join park staff on a morning adventure, exploring those areas long forgotten on a barrier spit. This one of a kind experience, touring the mysteries of False Cape State Park will leave you wanting for more. Reservations are required, space is limited. For more information call 757-426-7128. $8 per person Location - Meet at Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge for transport into False Cape Phone - (757) 426-7128
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Grayson Highlands State Park Located at 829 Grayson Highlands Lane Mouth Of Wilson VA 24363 10/07/2016 Harvest Barn Dance 7:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m. Looking for some old-fashioned fun? Join us at Grayson Highlands for a lively and entertaining harvest dance. October is traditionally the time of harvest, the time to get together and celebrate the year's crops. Music and dance have been central to these celebrations for generations. Let's keep this tradition alive by bringing the community together and celebrating our local heritage. Music will be provided by the Whitetop Mountain Band. There will be a mix of contra, square, and old-time flat-footing; all dancing styles welcome. No partner or experience required. The dance will be held at Shelter 2, located in the Picnic Area. Admission to the dance is free with payment of State Park daily parking fee. A brief workshop will be held before the dance to teach the moves. For this special harvest dance, guests are encouraged to show up in Halloween costumes. There will be a costume contest with prize. Location - Shelter 2-Picnic Area Phone - (276) 579-7092
10/08/2016 Hoots, Haints, and Hexes 7:30 p.m. - 9:30 p.m. Ready to be spooked? Come hike the Stamper's Branch Trail, where you never know if ghosts, ghouls, and creepy critters could be hiding in the forest. Appalachian history is heavy with folklore of haints and boogers, that haunted the ridges and mountaintops with their hoodoo and hexes. Spend an evening in the woods as these old tales come alive. Get goosebumps hearing local stories around a glowing campfire from story teller and musician, Roald Kirby. Or, have your fortune told by an Appalachian Witch as she reads your palm. Admission to event is $3.00 per person. There is a State Park daily parking fee of $5.00 per in-state vehicle, and $7.00 per out-of-state vehicle. Funding for this event is provided by the Friends of Grayson Highlands. Location - Campground Amphitheater Phone - (276) 579-7092
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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) 248-6308
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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 - (276) 781-7400
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Kiptopeke State Park Located at 3540 Kiptopeke Drive Cape Charles VA 23310 10/06/2016 - 10/09/2016 Eastern Shore Birding and Wildlife Festival 8:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m. Don't miss the East Coast's best bird watching festivals. Take in the splendor of North America's birds trekking south on their annual migration. Enjoy workshops, guest speakers, children's programs and boat tours. The exhibit hall at the Cape Charles Firehouse features vendors and exhibitors. This festival is a must for all bird watchers. Visit http://www.esvafestivals.org for more information, event fees and to register. Location - Headquarters is Sunset Beach. Various events take place at the park. Phone - (757) 331-2267
10/08/2016 24th Annual Birding and Wildlife Festival: Free Family Programs 10:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. Kiptopke hosts a day of free family friendly programs. A free shuttle runs all day between the park and Sunset Beach Resort. Entrance is free to those who mention the birding festival. Enjoy free guided walks, crafts and activities for children. Help will be on hand for mobility-impaired individuals wanting to enjoy a trail. Ask a ranger about the Junior Rangers program and get a workbook, then earn a patch by completing the activities in the workbook. Join us at noon or at 3 p.m. for a "Flight of the Raptor" live birds of prey demonstration. To learn more about this event and the Eastern Shore Birding and Wildlife Festival, visit http://www.esvabirdingfestival.com. Location - Picnic Area Phone - (757) 331-2267
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Lake Anna State Park Located at 6800 Lawyers Road Spotsylvania VA 22551 10/07/2016 Survival Savvy 11:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. We never plan to get lost or find we have no cell service when you need it most. But these things can happen when we least expect it. Join the ranger and learn skills that will help you face life's surprises with the confidence of a survival expert. You'll become "bear aware", start a fire using our flint & steel, discover when and how to effect self rescue as well as basic shelter building techniques. Each session features a different survival topic. Free Space is limited. Call (540) 854-6245 and leave a message of how many in your group and a contact number to preregister for one or all three programs in the series. Location - Visitor Center Phone - (540) 854-5503
10/08/2016 Virginia State Parks History and Culture - Gold Fever 10:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m. Join us as we celebrate the history and culture that makes each Virginia State Park unique. Get ready to catch Gold Fever when you join our interpretive rangers on a quest for this elusive mineral! You'll enjoy activities and displays throughout the day that trace the intriguing and sometimes violent history of gold in Spotsylvania County, VA. Strict Limit of 15 on Stampmill Sam's Gold Adventure. Stampmill Sam's Gold Adventure: 10 a.m. to Noon $2 each Gold Panning: Noon to 1 p.m. Free Stampmill Sam's Gold Adventure: 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. $2 each To register for any of our programming in advance, please call the Visitor Center 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
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Leesylvania State Park Located at 2001 Daniel K. Ludwig Drive Woodbridge VA 22191 10/01/2016 Stewardship Virginia Seed Stomp 11:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. Take a day and remember that everyone is responsible for the health of our environment. Bring your best stomping shoes to the park and help us preserve our natural resources for future generations and have some fun at the same time. Call 703-583-6904 to volunteer or for more information on this event. Location - Visitor Center Phone - (703) 730-8205
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Mason Neck State Park Located at 7301 High Point Road Lorton VA 22079 10/01/2016 Virginia State Parks History and Culture - History Day at Mason Neck 10:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. We're celebrating the diverse history and unique culture of Mason Neck peninsula! Travel back in time with the park rangers to explore the rich history Mason Neck has to offer. Throughout the day, experience the prehistoric peninsula, observe several demonstrations of life back in the colonial area, and discuss why many Bald Eagles flourish here today on the Neck. Program Schedule: 10 a.m. Birding Adventure on Bay View - Birding with a discussion of Bald Eagles. Meet at Bay View trail head. 11 a.m. Woodworking - A log cabin building demonstration with colonial tools. Meet at Visitor Center flag pole. Noon Open Fire Cooking - A demonstration making a tasty colonial treat. Meet at Beach Trail campfire pit. 2 p.m. Ranger at the Pond - Discussing the natural history of Belmont Bay and the long-lost island. Meet at Turtle Pond. 4 p.m. Owl Prowl - Owl calling and discovering myths/folklore of these silent hunters. Meet at Beach Trail campfire pit. No tools, food, or any materials are required to attend these free programs. Visitors must pay $5.00 parking entry fee. Programs are great for all ages. For further questions, please call the office or email us at MasonNeck@dcr.virginia.gov Location - Various locations Phone - (703) 339-2385
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Natural Tunnel State Park Located at 1420 Natural Tunnel Parkway Duffield VA 24244 10/01/2016 Virginia State Parks History and Culture 2:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m. Spend a weekend day at the Wilderness Road Blockhouse. Listen to stories about adventurers who traveled through what was the frontier over 200 years ago. On October 22, step back in time, to 1775, to see how adventurers prepared for winter. Experience how clothing was made, how they cooked, along with other tasks. The Frontier Harvest Festival is a free program starting at 1 p.m. Location - The Wilderness Road Blockhouse Phone - (276) 940-2674
10/02/2016 Virginia State Parks History and Culture 2:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m. Spend a weekend day at the Wilderness Road Blockhouse. Listen to stories about adventurers who traveled through what was the frontier over 200 years ago. On October 22, step back in time, to 1775, to see how adventurers prepared for winter. Experience how clothing was made, how they cooked, along with other tasks. The Frontier Harvest Festival is a free program starting at 1 p.m. Location - The Wilderness Road Blockhouse Phone - (276) 940-2674
10/08/2016 Virginia State Parks History and Culture 2:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m. Spend a weekend day at the Wilderness Road Blockhouse. Listen to stories about adventurers who traveled through what was the frontier over 200 years ago. On October 22, step back in time, to 1775, to see how adventurers prepared for winter. Experience how clothing was made, how they cooked, along with other tasks. The Frontier Harvest Festival is a free program starting at 1 p.m. Location - The Wilderness Road Blockhouse Phone - (276) 940-2674
10/09/2016 Virginia State Parks History and Culture 2:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m. Spend a weekend day at the Wilderness Road Blockhouse. Listen to stories about adventurers who traveled through what was the frontier over 200 years ago. On October 22, step back in time, to 1775, to see how adventurers prepared for winter. Experience how clothing was made, how they cooked, along with other tasks. The Frontier Harvest Festival is a free program starting at 1 p.m. Location - The Wilderness Road Blockhouse Phone - (276) 940-2674
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New River Trail State Park Located at 176 Orphanage DR Max Meadows VA 24360 10/01/2016 Virginia State Parks History and Culture 10:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. New Time 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
10/02/2016 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
10/05/2016 Fall Van Tours 8:45 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. Discover the natural and cultural history of the New River Region as the leaves of autumn will amaze you. You and your friends will travel the old Norfolk and Western Railroad path on a 40 mile guided van tour. We will board the van and drive to Draper where we will get on the New River Trail. A Subway lunch will be served at Foster Falls in our beautiful Discovery Center. After lunch, we'll continue our tour to Cliffview. Don't forget your camera as there will be numerous attractions you'll want to take photos of. We encourage folks to bring snacks, drinks and weather appropriate attire. There is a $25 fee which includes your lunch and drink. You must preregister and prepay for this special program. Sign up early as this event will surely fill up quickly. Location - Foster Falls Train Depot at the New River Trail State Park Phone - (276) 699-6778
10/08/2016 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
10/09/2016 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
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Powhatan State Park Located at 4616 Powhatan State Park Road Powhatan VA 23239 10/08/2016 Third Annual Fall Festival 2:00 p.m. - 6:00 p.m. New Time Join us for the Third Annual Fall Festival at Powhatan State Park. Our special guest this year is AWARE Wildlife Rehabilitation group. They will bring animals such as owls, reptiles and more! Festival activities include pumpkin decorating, campfire cooking, wagon rides, a field maze, face painting and games. Also, have your photo taken with Ranger Parker Redfox. An evening hike marks the end of the day's festivities at 5 p.m. The Friends of Powhatan State Park will sell refreshments and snacks throughout the event. Parking fees apply. Pumpkin decorating is $3 per pumpkin For additional details call 804-598-7148 or email powhatan@dcr.virginia.gov Location - Playground Area Phone - (804) 598-7148
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Sailors Creek Battlefield State Park Located at 6541 Saylers Creek Road Rice VA 23966 10/01/2016 Virginia State Parks Cultural & History Day: The Civil War Home Front - Amelia County 10:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m. We will commemorate the Virginia State Parks Cultural & History Day with a living history presentation on "The Civil War Home Front in Amelia County" led by Education Specialist Jim Godburn. Visitors will be able to learn about and experience firsthand the domestic, social, military and agricultural aspects of wartime Amelia County. This family-friendly event is free to the public, although donations to our "Friends of Sailor's Creek Battlefield" educational programming fund are always welcome. For questions, contact the park's main office at (804) 561-7510. Location - The Hillsman House Phone - (804) 561-7510
10/02/2016 Rocking Chair Reflections: ''Marching Out of Formation'' 2:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m. Guest Speaker Ernie Price, the Education and Program Supervisor at Appomattox Court House National Historical Park, will present a program about the prospects facing the Confederate Soldier after the surrender at Appomattox. This event is free to the public, although donations to our "Friends of Sailor's Creek Battlefield" educational programming fund are always welcome. For questions, contact the park's main office at (804) 561-7510. Location - Battlefield Visitor Center Phone - (804) 561-7510
10/09/2016 Rocking Chair Reflections: ''The Grand Army of the Republic'' 2:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m. Patrick Schroeder, Chief Historian at Appomattox Court House National Historical Park, will deliver a first person, living history performance of two, former soldiers reminiscing about their exploits during the American Civil War at an 1891 reunion event of "The Grand Army of the Republic", a veterans organization dedicated to the Union soldier. This event is free to the public, although donations to our "Friends of Sailor's Creek Battlefield" educational programming fund are always welcome. For questions, contact the park's main office at (804) 561-7510. Location - Battlefield Visitor Center Phone - (804) 561-7510
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Andy Guest/Shenandoah River State Park Located at 350 Daughters of Stars Drive Bentonville VA 22610 10/01/2016 Virginia State Parks History and Culture: Gundalows on the Shenandoah 1:00 p.m. - 2:00 p.m. This presentation will explore how riverboats were used for the transportation of goods produced in the Shenandoah Valley in the 1800's. Learn how George Washington assisted in making the Shenandoah River navigable to the port in Harper's Ferry and the different structures used. Discover the difficulties faced by the boatmen on their journeys and river culture of this time period. Location - Visitor Center Phone - (540) 622-6840
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Sky Meadows State Park Located at 11012 Edmonds Lane Delaplane VA 20144 10/08/2016 - 10/09/2016 Fall Farm Days: Life on the Farm 10:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Come back to the family farm and experience all that Sky Meadows has to offer. Experience corn production as you run through a corn maze, help shuck this year's harvest, try your hand grinding flour with the Burwell Morgan Mill, and finally taste a little cornbread in the log cabin. Climb aboard a tractor to learn all about what it takes to grow crops and raise animals from the Department of Corrections agribusiness program. Meet baby farm animals from local Dear Farm. On Saturday, see a museum quality collection of antique farm tools from a Fauquier county farm. Visit with the Beekeepers of the Northern Shenandoah and stop by the Blacksmith Shop and watch the skilled artisans from the Blacksmith Guild of the Potomac work the forge. See all this and more. In addition to agriculture-themed programs, we also offer Mount Bleak House tours, a children's play area and corn maze, live music, delicious BBQ, pies and more from Hill High Bakery and BBQ of Berryville, VA, and, of course, the pick-your-own pumpkin patch. Come back the following weekends for more Fall fun!: October 15 & 16: The Nature of Sky Meadows October 22 & 23: Rest and Rejuvenation October 29 & 30: History of Sky Meadows Location - Historic Area Phone - (540) 592-3556
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Smith Mountain Lake State Park Located at 1235 State Park Road Huddleston VA 24104 10/01/2016 Virginia State Parks History and Culture Day: Historical Pontoon Boat Tours 10:00 a.m. - 3:15 p.m. Be a part of the celebration! 2016 is the 80th Anniversary of Virginia State Parks and the 50th Anniversary of Smith Mountain Lake. How large is the lake? What was here before the lake? Ride with a ranger on our new pontoon boat as we learn the history of how the lake was created and the origin of the state park. We will make several stops to take in the scenery and for photo opportunities. Life vests will be provided by the park & must be worn at all times. Water & sunscreen are recommended. Tours will be available at the following times: 10-11:30 a.m. 12-1:30 p.m. 1:45-3:15 p.m. You MUST be present for the safety briefing 15 minutes before the start time in order to board the vessel. Space is limited: Pre-registration required at the Main Office/Visitor Center. Registration for this event opens 9/23/2016 and closes at 4 p.m. 9/30/2016. Unfortunately, we cannot take pets aboard the boat. Event is free. Regular parking fees apply. For more information, please call our Main Office at (540) 297-6066 between 8 a.m. & 4:30 p.m. Location - Meet at the Boat Ramp Bathhouse Phone - (540) 297-6066
10/01/2016 Virginia State Parks History and Culture Day - Meet Ranger Parker Redfox 10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. Be a part of the celebration! 2016 is the 80th Anniversary of Virginia State Parks and we are celebrating at Smith Mountain Lake. Head on over to the park to meet Ranger Parker Redfox, the Virginia State Parks mascot. Parker is our newest ambassador with a mission to help reconnect children with the outdoors. He will help children understand the connections between the importance of forest habitats, recreational fun in parks, and diversity of species in the outdoors. Stop by, meet Parker, and take a picture with him. We will also have pontoon boat tours throughout the day where a park ranger will relate the history of the lake, the park, and how our Virginia State Parks system began. There were six original parks which opened June 15, 1936. Do you know which ones they were? Do you know how many Virginia State Parks there are today? Discover the answers here at Smith Mountain Lake. For more information on this and other programs at the park, call 540-297-6066. This event is free, but regular parking fees apply. Pre-registration is required for the boat tours. Location - Visitor Center Phone - (540) 297-6066
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Staunton River Battlefield State Park Located at 1035 Fort Hill Trail Randolph VA 23962 10/01/2016 Virginia State Parks History and Culture - A River Runs Through It 9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. Take a guided tour with park staff as we look at the history of the park, from the early river settlements to the Reconstruction period. Location - Clover Visitor Center Phone - (434) 454-4312
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Twin Lakes State Park Located at 788 Twin Lakes Road Green Bay VA 23942 10/01/2016 Virginia State Parks History and Culture 10:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Twin Lakes State Park has a rich and deep history. From the stories that the rocks can tell to the buildings on Prince Edward Lake, history permeates everything at the park and continues to be written every day. For the 80th anniversary of state parks we invite you to join us at the park for a day full of programs where we explore the history of the park, and what we can do to preserve that history for the future. Location - Concession Stand Phone - (434) 392-3435
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Westmoreland State Park Located at 145 Cliff Road Montross VA 22520 10/01/2016 Virginia State Parks History and Culture Day 11:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m. 11 a.m. Join us at the Rock Spring Pond Trailhead as we take a stroll through history. While hiking our way to Rock Spring Pond we will learn about the park's original infrastructure built by the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) in the 1930's. 1 p.m. Stop by Cabin 9 as we take a look at the original construction of our CCC cabins. We will be taking a look at the handcrafted work that was meticulously done by the CCC boys. 3 p.m. Connect with the CCC boys at the Discovery Center as we learn about the tools and trade that the men of the CCC use to build our original cabins. Location - Various Phone - (804) 493-8821
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Wilderness Road State Park Located at 8051 Wilderness Road Ewing VA 24248 10/07/2016 Martin's Station Fall Encampment 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Immerse yourself into autumn in 18th-century Virginia as folk gather at Historic Martin's Station for a frontier harvest. Visit an 18th century market fair and meet historical figures and skilled colonial tradesmen. Experience life as it was on Virginia's frontier. Admission is $10 per vehicle. Location - Martin's Station Phone - (276) 445-3065
10/08/2016 Martin's Station Fall Encampment 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Immerse yourself into autumn in 18th-century Virginia as folk gather at Historic Martin's Station for a frontier harvest. Visit an 18th century market fair and meet historical figures and skilled colonial tradesmen. Experience life as it was on Virginia's frontier. Admission is $10 per vehicle. Location - Martin's Station Phone - (276) 445-3065
10/08/2016 Wilderness Road Heritage Festival 11:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Celebrate Southwest Virginia's unique heritage. As part of Virginia State Park's History and Culture initiative, this festival features handmade Appalachian crafts and those who crafted them. Watch their skillful hands as years of practice breeds some of the most unique crafts one can imagine. They fill the lawn of the Karlan Mansion as bluegrass music dances in the air. Participate in the annual Wilderness Road Chili Cook-off. The always popular Children's Festival offers young ones games, bounce houses and other entertainment. The sweet smell of home cooking by vendors will tickle your taste buds and make your visit pleasurable. Admission is $10 per vehicle. Location - Karlan Mansion Phone - (276) 445-3065
10/09/2016 Martin's Station Fall Encampment 10:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m. Immerse yourself into autumn in 18th-century Virginia as folk gather at Historic Martin's Station for a frontier harvest. Visit an 18th century market fair and meet historical figures and skilled colonial tradesmen. Experience life as it was on Virginia's frontier. Admission is $10 per vehicle. Location - Martin's Station Phone - (276) 445-3065
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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 09/29/2016 To 10/09/2016 by clicking on your favorite park.
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 Last Minute Cabin Discount
Book on Thursday or Friday for the upcoming weekend for a 25% discount.
Available by calling 800-933-7275 only.
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Become A Virginia State Parks Travel Writer  Share your favorite State Parks story. This is a great way to share your favorite Virginia State Parks with other readers! While you can't comment on an eNews article, as you can on a blog, you still can share your experiences.
Submit your story with (preferred) or without photos - to Don.Byrne@dcr.virginia.gov. Don't wish to write an article? We also welcome any photos you might care to share.
Please do not embed the photos in the email or article as they are difficult to maintain the resolution. Simply use your email attachment feature to send them along.
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