›› Google Map
The Backway Hollow Trail is a .9 mile moderate multi-use trail that connects the Heron Run Trail to the Salt Stump Trail, while providing access to the Laurel View Trail. This trail is fairly wide and not too steep and excellent for biking and hiking with children. At its northern end this trail splits into two forks, both of which lead to the Salt Stump Trail.
Blaze Color: Yellow
Usage:
The Beards Gap Hollow Trail is a 1 mile moderate multi-use trail that is accessible from near the White Oak Campground and from the Locust Gap Trail. This trail gradually climbs uphill from the campground, passing through a wooded hollow and crossing a creek several times. As the trail nears the Locust Gap Trail, it becomes narrower with some switchbacks an a moderate increase in grade.
Blaze Color: White
Usage:
Not to be confused with the easier and similarly named Beard's Gap Hollow Trail, the Beard's Gap Trail is a 1.2 mile difficult multi-use trail that connects the guest registration area to a small shelter and the Mountain Top and Brushy Hollow trails. Near the registration area this trail is fairly flat and follows a creek, crossing it several times. As the trail climbs it becomes increasingly steep and difficult, with seven short switchbacks before reaching the ridge line.
Blaze Color: Blue
Usage:
The Blue Suck Falls Trail is a 3 mile moderate to difficult multi-use trail that connects several of the trails in the northwest region of the park to the trail head near the Visitor Center. The falls, and hence the trail, get their unusual name from the Appalachian term for a whirlpool or a 'suck', which may be found at the base of the falls. At higher elevations the trail traverses the ridge top, often along a narrow path, and connects to the George Washington National Forest trail network. The trail features several east facing overlooks of the Alleghenies such as Lookout Rock. A highlight of the trail are the views of Blue Suck Falls. This rocky trail is actually steeper and more difficult at lower elevations.
Blaze Color: Blue
Usage:
The Brushy Hollow Trail is a 3.7 mile difficult multi-use trail that is accessible from the Mountain Top, Beards Gap, and Flat Run trails. This narrow trail connects several overlooks with spectacular views of the park and the George Washington National Forest. The trail criss-crosses the ridge line by way of many switchbacks and several dramatic increases and decreases in elevation. The southern portion of the trail drops into Brushy Hollow crossing the creek several times. This somewhat easier portion of the trail passes an old CCC dynamite storage building and crosses Wilson Creek via bridge near the connection to the Flat Run Trail.
Blaze Color: Orange
Usage:
The Buck Hollow Trail is a 1.4 mile difficult multi-use trail that is accessible from nearby the park restaurant and from the Mountain Top Trail. Initially wide, flat and smooth, this trail gradually gets narrower, steeper, and more winding as it approaches the ridge line. Hikers will want to take the short side trail that leads to an overlook of Douthat Lake and a spectacular sunset view. The higher elevations of this trail become increasingly difficult, however do not be discouraged as the lower portions are much easier and the views are worth the effort.
Blaze Color: Blue
Usage:
The Flat Run Trail is a 2.5 mile easy multi-use trail that runs alongside the main park road and Wilson Creek. The trail connects the park entrance to the Contact Station as well as the Brushy Hollow and Stony Run trails. This trail is very flat and smooth and is grassy most of the way, passing several benches. At several points along the trail there are parking areas where hikers, bikers, and fishermen can access the trail and Wilson Creek as well as other small streams. Although these areas are accessible before reaching the Contact Station parking passes are required and all other park rules are applicable.
Blaze Color: Red
Usage:
The Guest Lodge Trail is a .64 mile difficult multi-use trail that connects the Douthat Lodge to the Mountain Top and Mountain Side Trails. It runs near a ridge top and is a fairly easy climb from the lodge to the Mountain Top and Mountain Side Trails. This trail may also be used to access the Ross Camp Trail in several locations.
Blaze Color: Blue
Usage:
Heron Run is a .7 mile easy multi-use trail that follows the western side of Douthat Lake. It is accessible from the Discovery Center, the Blue Suck Falls, Middle Hollow, and Backway Hollow trails. Near the discovery center the trail crosses a small bridge, traverses the spillway via concrete steps, and passes through wooded areas along the lake. The trail is fairly flat in most places with the exception of the spillway stairs and is an excellent trail for families with children.
Blaze Color: Blue
Usage:
Huff's Trail is a 1.08 mile moderate multi-use trail that connects the Blue Suck Falls Trail to the Heron Run Trail and crosses the Middle Hollow Trail. This trail is fairly flat and narrow and passes through areas that are lush with wild blueberry plants.
Blaze Color: Gold
Usage:
The Laurel View Trail is a 1.48 mile moderate multi-use trail that is accessible from the Backway Hollow Trail and the Blue Suck Falls Trail. It also intersects the Middle Hollow Trail and runs parallel to the nearby Huff's Trail. This trail has more changes in elevation than its neighbor although it shares in the abundance of wild blueberry plants. The path is narrow but not too rough on this trail.
Blaze Color: White
Usage:
The Locust Gap Trail is a 1.45 mile moderate multi-use trail that connects Blue Suck Falls trail to Stony Run Trail and is also accessible from the Beards Gap Hollow Trail. This trail passes through the wooded environment that typifies this park and is fairly flat with little change in elevation. The Locust Gap Trail is an excellent choice for small groups or family hikes.
Blaze Color: Yellow
Usage:
Middle Hollow is a 0.7 mile moderate multi-use trail that connects the Pine Tree Trail to the Heron Run Trail, crossing the Laurel View and Huff's Trails in the process. A gradually sloping trail with a noticeable amount of rocks, hikers are advised to wear proper footwear. Where the trail meets Heron Run Trail there is a bench and a small bridge.
Blaze Color: Orange
Usage:
The portion of the Middle Mountain Trail inside the park is a 1.77 mile long section of this much longer trail that extends into the George Washington National Forest. The trail primarily follows the top of the ridge and elevation change is minimal. This difficult, narrow hiking trail is accessible from the Stony Run, Blue Suck Falls, and the Salt Stump Trails and is an excellent connector for making a loop hike back to the park.
Blaze Color: White
Usage:
The Mountain Side Trail is a 1.2 mile moderate to difficult multi-use trail that is accessible in two places along the Mountain Top Trail and from the Guest Lodge Trail. This narrow trail runs along the side of the mountain with few changes in elevation. Users should use particular caution on this trail as it runs along a fairly steep edge and a false step could result in a bad tumble or fall.
Blaze Color: White
Usage:
As its name suggests the Mountain Top Trail is a 2.4 mile moderate to difficult multi-use trail that is accessible from the Mountain Side, Buck Hollow, Beard's Gap, and Brushy Hollow trails. The trail follows several ridges via a series of switchbacks and runs along a wooded ridge line before descending via another series of switchbacks. This trail is fairly narrow and, except for the portion along the ridge line, is fairly steep. From this trail one can access the George Washington National Forest network of trails.
Blaze Color: Yellow
Usage:
The Pine Tree Trail is a 1.06 mile difficult multi-use trail that follows a somewhat constant elevation as it connects the Salt Stump Trail to the Blue Suck Falls Trail, and access to the Middle Hollow Trail. The name of the trail can be misleading as most, if not all, of the trees along this trail are hardwoods.
Blaze Color: Yellow
Usage:
The Ross Camp Trail is a .83 mile difficult multi-use trail that is accessible from the main park road and climbs to the Guest Lodge Trail. Initially flat smooth and easy to travel,the trail later gets steeper and moderate in difficulty as the elevation increases. The trail features a pleasant section through a wooded hollow and along a creek.
Blaze Color: Orange
Usage:
The Salt Stump Trail is a 2.43 mile difficult multi-use trail that connects the Beaver Dam Campground to the Middle Mountain Trail and the George Washington National Forest. The Salt Stump Trail is also accessible from the Backway Hollow Trail and Pine Tree Trail. From the campground, this trail begins as a wide, flat, and smooth trail later becoming steeper and narrower as it continues uphill through the wooded mountainsides. The terrain varies from smooth earth to fine gravel to rough rocks.
Blaze Color: Orange
Usage:
The Stony Run Trail is a 4.2 mile moderate to difficult multi-use trail that is accessible from the trailhead parking area, from the Tuscarora Overlook Trail, the Locust Gap Trail, and from the Middle Mountain Trail that runs outside the park. This trail isn't as steep as others in the park because of the winding switchbacks that help hikers overcome the considerable changes in elevation. From the trailhead parking area the trail crosses Stony Run several times and passes the seasonal Stony Run Falls.
Blaze Color: Orange
Usage:
The Tobacco House Ridge Trail is a .8 mile moderate multi-use trail that connects the White Oak Campground to the Blue Suck Falls Trail. It is fairly steep near the campground but passes by several benches that make good rest stops. The trail soon flattens out and then gradually decreases in elevation as it approaches the Blue Suck Falls Trail. Be sure to stop and rest at the beautiful overlook of Douthat Lake and the mountains.
Blaze Color: Yellow
Usage:
The Tuscarora Overlook Trail is a 1 mile difficult multi-use trail that connects the Stony Run Trail to the Blue Suck Falls Trail. This narrow, well shaded trail passes through flat areas and areas with slight changes in elevation. This trail accesses the Tuscarora Overlook, where hikers are rewarded with beautiful views of the park, Beard's mountain, and the nearby ridge of the Alleghenies. The overlook includes a cabin for shelter from foul weather at this high elevation.
Blaze Color: Yellow
Usage:
The Wilson Creek Trail is a 1.5 mile moderate multi-use trail. It connects the Christian Chimney, a monument to Colonel William Christian, to the main park road by way of Creasey Lodge, several cabin areas, the Buck Hollow Trail and the Ross Camp Trail. For most of its length it passes through wooded areas with moderate elevation changes along the way.
Blaze Color: White
Usage:
The Youth Conservation Corps Trail is a .9 mile, easy multi-use trail that connects the boat launch area to the Discovery Center. Constructed by crews of primarily 14 to 17 year old participants in the Virginia State Parks Conservation Corps program, the trail closely follows the eastern shore of Douthat Lake via the beach area, the park restaurant, Camp Malone and the spillway. The trail passes near Camp Carson and the Discovery Center where there is access to the Heron Run Trail and Blue Suck Falls Trail. The YCC trail is fairly flat and smooth along most of its length, however the trail does include wooden stairways and bridges as well as several rest areas with benches.
Blaze Color: Blue
Usage:
The parks boathouse is situated behind the restaurant and country store and rents out canoes, kayaks, paddle boats, jon boats, electric trawling motors, barracudas, and hydro bikes. (Mountain bikes can be rented here too for use on many of the parks trails.) Those with their own boats may launch them from the parks boat ramp, situated on the lake and accessible from the main park road. Nearby are pit toilets and a sink for fish cleaning. By the boat ramp are also places for long term storage of jon boats. Contact the park for more information concerning rates and availability. Boaters are reminded that gasoline motors are prohibited on the lake.
Other Activities At Douthat State Park: Hiking, Boating and Water Sports, Camping, Educational Activities, Fishing, Gifts and Shopping, Hunting, Picnicking, Swimming and Canoeing And Kayaking
Click here to return to the destination overview for Douthat State Park, or check out other great Virginia outdoor destinations that offer access to Biking.
Our First Outing at Douthat State Park in VirginiaVel Allard
A visitor contributed blog by Vel Allard from Wakefield, Virginia |
CALLING ALL FAMILIES! COME OUT AND PLAY THIS SUMMER WITH COCA-COLA AND THE NATIONAL PARKSCoca-Cola North America
"America Is Your Park" campaign offers families across the country an opportunity to be active and support their favorite park |
Virginia State Parks Youth Corps Receives National AwardJim Meisner, Jr.
|
Royal Canin Donates Walking Track and Playground to Douthat State ParkJaimie Lomasney
With sweat rolling down their faces over 200 Royal Canin USA associates broke ground on the new playground and walking track, now known as Royal Canin Park |
Hey Teachers---We Can Bring the Outdoors IN!Staci Martin
As the department stores tout their "Back to School" sales and teachers begin filling out their plan books, Virginia State Parks is gearing up for the 2010 OUTREACH PROGRAM season. |
Virginia State Parks Continue Record High Visitation Through Independence Day WeekendVirginia Department of Conservation and Recreation
Virginia State Parks continued the year-long trend of record attendance with an Independence Day weekend attendance of 266,739, a 22 percent increase over last year’s previous record-high of 218,889. |
Virginia State Parks Receives 101 Outdoor AwardsNancy Heltman
For the eighth consecutive year, the 35 Virginia State Parks operated by the Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation have been recognized by ReserveAmerica as among the nation’s best. |
Signing up for a free membership on Virginia Outdoors has benefitsVirginia State Parks
A new program has been developed to encourage membership on Virginia Outdoors.com and with the Virginia Association for Parks. |
Outdoor Enthusiasts Love Holliday Lake State ParkZoe Rogers
If you are an outdoor enthusiast, you’ll love Holliday Lake State Park. The park is nestled in the heart of Appomattox-Buckingham State Forest. |
Plenty of Fun Activities at Twin Lakes State ParkZoe Rogers
Surrounded by two lakes in the heart of Central Virginia, Twin Lakes State Park is an ideal setting for a variety of lakefront activities. |
Take Dad to a Virginia State Park for Father's DayNancy Heltman
Maybe because I'm a girl but I always had trouble figuring out what to get my father for a gift. After all, you can only have so many ties. |
Have you planted a tree for Virginia State Parks yet?Paula Hill
For the past 2 years, along with your help, Odwalla has made a commitment to America's state parks by donating money to help plant trees. |
Register for the Twelfth Annual Douthat Arts and Crafts FairJaimie Lomasney
The Twelfth Annual Douthat State Park Arts and Crafts Fair will be held on Saturday, July 31, 2010, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Discovery Center. |
Volunteers NeededNancy Heltman
There are so many things we do better in Virginia State Parks because of our loyal and large cadre of volunteers. |
The To-Do List ChallengeStaci Martin
Last month, I challenged readers to make a "Virginia State Parks To-Do List" by visiting our events website at www.virginiastateparks.gov/ and selecting five things to do at Virginia State Parks. |
Get Outside and Play at Occoneechee State ParkPat Eastwood
There are a lot of fun things to do at Occoneechee State Park throughout the upcoming weekend. Hike through the woods, ride a bike, visit the museum, have a picnic, and enjoy these great programs along with many others. |
Virginia State Parks kicks off summer season with record high visitationVirginia State Parks
Virginia State Parks had a record-setting Memorial Day weekend with new highs in attendance and revenue, and even website traffic. |
Three State Park Staff Graduate from Cardinal Criminal Justice AcademyDave Summers
The 54th Basic Law Enforcement class graduated from Cardinal Criminal Justice Academy in Salem VA on Wednesday May 26, 2010. |
Hike a Trail for National Trails DayNancy Heltman
June is National Get Outdoors Month and after the record setting Memorial Day weekend we had, it is clear folks are ready for a great summer playing outdoors! |
Start voting for Virginia to receive trees donated by Odwalla's Plant a Tree program!Kristen Uerz
Start voting for Virginia to receive trees donated by Odwalla's Plant a Tree program! |
A Downpour at DouthatTom Cervenak
With Memorial Day Weekend upon us, the unofficial kickoff of summer is here and with it comes camping. |
Welcome to Virginia State Parks!Kristen Uerz
Planning a trip to your local State Park? If so, be sure to pick up the newest copy of the Park Visitor Welcome Kit. |
Focus is on the customerAmy Atwood
Memorial Day weekend marks the beginning of the summer season for those of us in Virginia State Parks. |
Mountain Bike Racing under moon light?Amy Atwood
Saturday, May 22, 2010, is the park’s newest special event, The Night Owl. The Night Owl is a mountain bike race with a different twist, it begins at 9:00 PM. |
Free Trees for State Parks!!Kristen Uerz
Today's society is more connected than ever between Twitter, Facebook, and that Blackberry you never let out of your sight. Even helping the environment has gone hi-tech. |
Outdoor Expo at York River State ParkStaci Martin
Kick off the summer at the York River State Park Outdoor Expo. |
Virginia State Parks Goes Hollywood!Tom Cervenak
Virginia State Parks has joined in a partnership with several agencies including, Dept. of Game and Inland Fisheries, Virginia Tourism and numerous County Tourism Agencies to promote fishing in Southwest Virginia. |
Shell & Tell at False Cape State ParkStaci Martin
Saturday, May 8 from 10am-2pm False Cape State Park is offering a "Shell & Tell" seashell program. False Cape boasts an incredible treasure trove of huge whelk, oyster, and moon snail shells. |
Happy 40th Birthday Earth Day!Nancy Heltman
For Earth Day, America's State Parks offer the following birthday card. |
Douthat State Park Celebrated Earth DayJaimie Lomasney
Local schools were invited to participate in Douthat State Park’s Twelfth Annual Earth Day Celebration which was held on Friday, April 16, 2010. |
Find Your Way at False Cape State ParkStaci Martin
Discover ways to find directions using nature as a guide, learn how to use a compass, and how to use a GPS as a wayfinding tool. |
Virginia State Parks Geocaching Wildlife AdventureKristen Uerz
Although I myself am new to geocaching, I would like to get the word out about a new and fun geocaching game that all Virginia State Parks will be launching on March 29, 2010 that will run until December 15, 2010. |
5th Annual Pocahontas State Park Little-Big AdventureZoe Rogers
Have you ever thought of running a triathlon with your kids but the opportunity was not there? Well that opportunity is now available. |
Douthat State Park Opening Day of Fee FishingJaimie Lomasney
Visitors to Douthat State Park lined Wilson’s Creek and Douthat’s lake in anticipation for 9 o’clock to drop their fishing lines in the water for Douthat’s first day of fee fishing on Saturday, April 3, 2010. |
Kids First Camping TripVirginia State Park Visitor
Last year 2009 my husband and I took our two kids ages 3 and 5 on their first camping trip to Staunton River State Park. |
The New River TrailNancy Heltman
What is 57 miles long and parallels an American Heritage River for 39 miles? New River Trail State Park. |
Spring in Virginia State ParksNancy Heltman
In honor of the start of Spring, here are a few pictures to wet your appetite for a visit to a Virginia State Park. |
Clarkson University Volunteering During Spring Break at Douthat State ParkJaimie Lomasney
Fourteen college students from Clarkson University in Potsdam, New York are spending a week at Douthat State Park as an alternative spring break volunteering. |
The Gradual AwakeningMichael Salotti
After a couple active snow storms this winter, the weather appears to be taking a turn for the better. |
Nature's Fireworks about to HitTom Cervenak
Goodbye Old Man Winter, boy you were tough this year. |
Women’s Wellness Weekend Caters to Mind, Body & SpiritZoe Rogers
Women are looking for affordable vacations where they can leave their hectic lifestyles behind. |
State park and natural area preserve officers receive state accreditationNancy Heltman
Conservation Officers with the Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation this week received accreditation from the Virginia Law Enforcement Professional Standards Commission. |
Your Next Family ReunionNancy Heltman
Virginia's State Parks have always been fantastic family vacation spots. The parents can relax and unwind from their normally busy vacations while the kids enjoy swimming, boating, fishing, hiking or a variety of programs offered at the park. |
Helping WildlifeTom Cervenak
I started working for Virginia State Parks in 1986 and in a long career have had the chance to get up close with wildlife and working on enhancing it. |
Have you Volunteered Lately?Tom Cervenak
I just read a story that in the toughest of times, Americans are volunteering at a record rate. |
Soaring with the EaglesTom Cervenak
I just went to check out the "Eagle Cam" that is set up at the Norfolk Botanical Gardens on an active nest. This is really cool and several school groups were checking it out for education. |
Fight For Your ParksTom Cervenak
With shrinking budgets across our nation, one of the first things that is thought of to be cut is our parks. |
American Hiking Society Volunteering at Douthat State ParkJaimie Lomasney
Eleven volunteers from the American Hiking Society are working at Douthat State Park this week and have started their first day of trail work. |
Don't Have a Camping Trailer?Tom Cervenak
I've done a lot of tent camping in my days and still do, but every now and then I want the camping experience without the tent camping part. |
Connecting Children with NatureTom Cervenak
Technology has been great in many ways, for instance I'm using it this very moment to communicate to an entire audience of people I don't really know. |
Boy Scouts and Virginia State ParksTom Cervenak
I use my vast knowledge of Virginia State Parks that I acquired since I started in 1986, to take Troop 340 out for fun and to learn about the great outdoors. |
Camping at Virginia State ParksTom Cervenak
I've been camping at a lot of Virginia State Parks, some by myself, some with a dozen or so Boy Scouts and leaders. |
Time for FishingTom Cervenak
Almost all Virginia State Parks have some sort of body of water associated with them. |
One of my favorite hikes!Tom Cervenak
Spring has to be close now and as soon as we start having a few days in the 60's and 70's there will be a rush to get out to our great Virginia State Parks. |
An Interview with Del. Clay Athey: Should we close state parks?Dan McDermott - Warren County Report
Del. Athey says he does not support Gov. Robert McDonnell’s plan to close state parks and says it would not save money because they are profitable. |
Two Volunteer Groups Coming to Douthat State ParkJaimie Lomasney
Two different volunteer groups will be spending a week of their time at Douthat State Park working on a variety of volunteer projects. |
Winter Weather Wreacks Havoc on Spring CampingNancy Heltman
At a time when we could sure use the revenue and our visitors sure could use an escape from cabin fever, the winter weather has conspired to put a damper on early spring camping. |
2010 Ad Campaign for Virginia State ParksNancy Heltman
This year's theme is: "I Love Virginia State Parks." I thought you would all enjoy seeing the two television spots. |
CLAYTOR LAKE STATE PARK ADDS TO ATTENDANCE RECORD FOR 2009Jaimie Lomasney
Claytor Lake State Park added to the increase in visitation with 268,472 visitors in 2009, up 19,450 visitors from 2008. |
NEW RIVER TRAIL STATE PARK ADDS TO ATTENDANCE RECORD FOR 2009Jaimie Lomasney
New River Trail State Park added to the increase in visitation with 960,096 visitors in 2009, up 8,104 visitors from 2008. |
DOUTHAT STATE PARK ADDS TO ATTENDANCE RECORD FOR 2009Jaimie Lomasney
Douthat State Park added to the increase in visitation with 205,654 visitors in 2009, up 10,090 visitors from 2008. |
The Perfect Getaway!Tom Cervenak
This past weekend I went to Douthat State Park and stayed in one of the original CCC log cabins built in the 1930's. |
Camping at Laka Anna State ParkAnnette Bareford
For those of you that grew up camping, do you remember how good food tasted cooked outside over a campfire? Wasn’t it the best? |
It's Showtime!Tom Cervenak
Virginia State Parks kicked off the promotional show season with the Washington Camping and RV Show (Jan. 15-17) at the Dulles Expo Center. |
The Dividing LineStaci Martin
False Cape State Park is considered Virginia's Outer Banks. It's barrier spit island stretches south from Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge in Sandbridge, Virginia to the North Carolina border. |
Arizona Loses State TreasuresNancy Heltman
Arizona sold a dozen state buildings on a lease back arrangement just this week to try and make up their $2 billion deficit. On Friday the decision was made to close 21 of the 30 state parks to help close the gap. |
2009 Marks Record Virginia State Park AttendanceNancy Heltman
One aspect of the recession is that tight pocketbooks send families looking for lower cost vacation alternatives. |
Wanted - A Few Good Men and WomenNancy Heltman
The Virginia State Parks Office of Volunteer Services is part of the Operations Section that I manage. |
Staying on Our Game in the Off Season, Part IIStaci Martin
This is the second of a four-part series about what we do in parks during the off-season, Part II |
Most State Parks Report Camping Increase in 2009RVBusiness
A survey done by the NASPD (National Association of State Park Directors) have shown some great results. |
Start Planning Now for a Family Reunion VacationPat Eastwood
Unfortunately, with all the traveling, shopping, cooking, and general hustle and bustle of the season, families are often too busy to really connect with each other during the holiday season. |
FOCUS For Excellence Customer Service AwardsPaula Hill
Each year all state park employees participate in the Virginia State Park's FOCUS for Excellence customer service training program. |
A World of Thanks to our VolunteersNancy Heltman
I have mentioned before that we are deeply indebted to our volunteers in Virginia State Parks. |
Fish Virginia FirstTom Cervenak
On Friday, December 11, the Fish Virginia First steering committee met at beautiful Douthat Lake View Restaurant at Douthat State Park. |
Staying on our Game in the Off Season: Part 1Staci Martin
This is the first of a four-part series about what we do in parks during the off-season. |
Virginia State Parks Staff Recognized for ExcellenceNancy Heltman
Our Agency held two employee recognition events in the last month to honor employees who have made special contributions to Virginia State Parks. |
Trails at False Cape State ParkStaci Martin
As part of a new initiative, Virginia State Parks is using GPS technology to redesign our trail maps to more accurately reflect current conditions. |
Douthat State Park is Lowering LakeJaimie Lomasney
Douthat State Park will begin lowering Douthat Lake beginning Monday, Jan. 4, 2010 and will begin refilling the lake on Friday, March 26, 2010. |
Douthat State Park Ornament Making ContestJaimie Lomasney
Douthat State Park is offering an ornament making contest for students through Monday, December 14, 2009. |
Give the Gift of Virginia State ParksNancy Heltman
If you are a shopping hater like me, or have folks on your gift list that love Virginia State Parks, we have cyber options for you! |
Winter Hiking at Holliday Lake State ParkSarah Lankford
With a few basic preparations, you and your family can enjoy winter hiking at Holliday Lake State Park or any state park in Virginia. |
Holiday Events at Virginia State ParksNancy Heltman
This year, Virginia State Parks has 13 of their State Parks offering special programs to celebrate the holiday season. |
Additional Trail Miles Open at High Bridge TrailZoe Rogers
An additional six miles of trail are now open at High Bridge Trail State Park, a perfect place for hikers, bicyclists and horseback riders to enjoy the beauty of Central Virginia. |
Fall Fear Bike Race at Hungry Mother State ParkAmy Atwood
The Friends of Hungry Mother will again be sponsoring Hungry Mother State Park’s Fall Fear Bike Race on Oct 24, 2009. |
What Will Your Children Remember?Nancy Heltman
Nancy Heltman of Virginia State Parks was a guest blogger for Bethe Almeras' Grass Stain Guru today. Here's the content. http://bit.ly/XYvuT
|
How the West Was Won - Part VTom Cervenak
Take time to read highlights from Tom's visits and to five state Parks on the far west side of the state. This is the last in the series of five articles. |
Fishing and Fun, For the FundTom Cervenak
Each year State Park employees, some family members, volunteers and friends of parks get together on the Eastern Shore at Kiptopeke State Park for a very important event, The State Parks Benevolence Fund Fishing Tournament and Raffle. |
How the West was Won-Part IVTom Cervenak
Tom takes time to share highlights of his visits to Southwest Virginia Museum Historical State Park, Wilderness Road State Park, Natural Tunnel State Park, Grayson Highlands State Park and Hungry Mother State Park. |
Are You a Budding Les Stroud?Nancy Heltman
False Cape State Park invites the entire family for a fun-filled weekend of hiking and exploring Virginia’s Outer Banks while discovering tricks and tips on how to survive in the wilderness. |
Winter Activities!Stephanie Allen
Staunton River State Park is excited to announce that it will be keeping four cabins open year round starting this winter. |
Are You a Lark or an Owl?Nancy Heltman
Regardless of whether you are a lark or owl, False Cape State Park has a kayak program right up your alley during the month of October. |
The Best of Virginia State Parks - Forrest GladdenVirginia State Parks
State Parks Director Joe Elton talks with staff from Virginia’s National Award Winning State Parks. |
Virginia Association for Parks Web Site RennovationJohnny Finch
Johhny Finch, President, Virginia Association for Parks (VAFP) announces rennovation of VAFP website, its new companion virginiaoutdoors.net and dates and location for the 2010 Spring Conference. |
The Treasure Chest of the CommonwealthVSP
Explore what the Virginia State Parks have to offer. |
Civilian Conservation CorpsVSP
A look back at how jobs were created through the building of America's State Park System. |
National Public Lands Day Saturday, Sept 26th, 2009Luanne Lochner
National Public Lands Day is the nation’s largest hands-on volunteer effort to improve and enhance the public lands Americans enjoy. |
Fall at Virginia BeachNancy Heltman
Virginia Beach is a great destination year round and First Landing State Park makes an excellent base for visiting that resort city and the surrounding cities. |
How the West Was Won Part IITom Cervanak
Although the smallest Virginia State Park, the Southwest Virginia Museum State Park is packed with facinating historical treasures worth taking the time to explore. |
Apple Day at Douthat State ParkJaimie Lomasney
Apple Day, a Celebration of Appalachian Heritage at Douthat State Park is just around the corner on Saturday, Oct. 10, 2009 from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. |
Virginia State Parks Director Joe Elton elected President of the National Association of State Park DirectorsJim Meisner
Virginia State Parks Director Joe Elton was elected president of the National Association of State Park Directors (NASPD) at the NASPD annual meeting this week. |
National Association of State Park Directors Honor Individuals for Enhancing ParksVirginiaOutdoors
National Association of State Park Directors Honor Individuals for Enhancing Parks |
Jason Ring to Perform at Douthat SPVSP
Jason Ring to perform at Douthat State Park this Saturday, Sept 5 |
The Adventures of Virgil S PossumVirgil S Possum
Virgil S. Possum explores the Virginia State Parks and tells tales of his adventures. |
Trail QuestPaula Hill
Virginia State Parks soon to launch a great new program “Trail Quest – Explore Virginia State Parks One Step at a Time”. |
Annual Back to School Beach Bash at Douthat State ParkVASP
A day of fun in the sun is had at the annual Back to School Beach Bash at Douthat State Park. |
Information Stations in VA State ParksImperial Multimedia
In August of 2007, the Virginia State Parks successfully completed the launch of the nation’s first and most ambitious electronic interpretive information program specifically designed for visitors to a State Park system.
|
Virginia State Parks Camping Made EasyVirginia State Parks
Virginia State Parks Camping Tips |
Director Designate Jon Jarvis Testifies At Confirmation HearingNPS Digest
Director designate Jon Jarvis testified at his confirmation hearing before the Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources yesterday morning. The text of his opening statement follows. |
The Monarch ButterflyMichael Salotti
Butterfly found in Virginia State Parks |
Best of Virginia State Parks - Charlie ConnerVSP
State Parks Director Joe Elton talks with staff from Virginia’s National Award Winning State Parks. In this episode, Joe talks with Charlie Conner, Park Manager at Douthat State Park. |
State Parks Offer Moonlight Canoe ToursKevin Wallenfang
Several state parks offer moonlight canoe tours throughout the summer, offering a fun evening of nature and the stars. |
Dominion Contributes $110,000 To Equip Trail With Multiple Purpose Electronic KiosksCapital Trail Foundation
The Foundation announced that it has received a commitment of $110,000 from the Dominion Foundation to install electronic kiosks at the new trailheads to enhance the quality of the biking experience for future trail users. |
Mathews County, Rebecca GrowKevin Wallenfang
Mathews County, Rebecca Grow |
Roots in BranchesLorraine Eaton
Canoist Lillie Gilbert takes an active roll in sharing knowledge about the coast backwaters of Virginia that she works to protect. |

VirginiaOutdoors.com is sponsored in part by a generous grant from Dominion, a Fortune 200 energy company headquartered in Richmond. Click here to learn more about their volunteers and community commitment.
