From Virginia State Parks:
Top 6 Reasons to Visit Virginia State Parks for Spring Break
Originally published March, 2019
We’re excited that it’s nearly time for spring break, because that means it’s the perfect time to take the family outdoors.
Jumping for joy that spring is nearly here! (First Landing State Park)
Here are six reasons to visit one or more Virginia State Parks, and take advantage of this time together.
1. SPECIAL PROGRAMMING
Not sure what to do at the park? Let us help! All 41 Virginia State Parks offer self-guided or ranger-led programming to make it easy to get outdoors and enjoy the beginning of spring. Find a list of programs here.
Ranger-guided panning for gold program.
2. ENDLESS TRAILS TO EXPLORE
With 600 miles of trails to choose from, spend time in the woods or along the major waterways of Virginia for pleasure and/or exercise. Did you know you can track your visits to each Virginia State Park and earn pins along the way? Do this online through our Trail Quest program. Sign up and start logging parks you have already visited now. Once you hike at each state park you earn the coveted title of Master Hiker. This quest is a great motivator to get the whole family outdoors reguarly!
3. SPRING BRINGS OUT THE BLOOMS, BIRDS & BEES
Spring is a great time to observe wildlife and plants as nature wakes up after its winter sleep.
Blossoming tree at Claytor Lake State Park.
4. GO FOR A FAMILY PHOTO SHOOT
There are so many natural picturesque backdrops throughout our state parks. Bring your smart phone or camera to take pictures with your family. Post to Instagram using #vastateparks to share your spring break experiences. Sometimes the random family photos taken in our parks are the most treasured.
Selfie in front of the tunnel at Natural Tunnel State Park.
5. VISIT FOR FREE – THANKS TO THE LIBRARY
Many libraries in Virginia offer nature backpacks to check out. In addition to some handy tools to investigate the natural world, the backpacks include a parking pass for no cost entrance to the park. Find participating libraries here.
6. A GREAT PLACE TO STAY
Most Virginia State Parks offer campsites or cabins that can be reserved to make your visit last longer than a day. Contact our customer service center at 800-933-7275 or book online.
Consider a family camping trip for spring break. Photo by Kenton Steryous.
You can even stay in one park and visit other state parks in the surrounding area. The communities around our Virginia State Parks also feature attractions to visit during your stay. Each park’s web page has a section that includes ideas of what to do in the local area.
Your family will thank you for the memories!
“When families and friends spend moments together in Virginia State Parks, those moments become lifetime memories that are cherished forever. Spring break is the perfect time to get outdoors to shed those winter blues and enjoy what parks have to offer.” – Craig Seaver, former State Parks Director
