Virginia State Parks Sets Overnight Visitation Record in 2011 Official Department of Conservation and Recreation Press Release
![Click to enlarge]() (RICHMOND) - In 2011 Virginia State Parks celebrated its 75th anniversary with contests, special events and near-record attendance. They also hosted more overnight visitors than any year in history.
Overnight attendance in state park cabins, campgrounds and lodges increased 3 percent last year to 1,055,875, up from 1,022,698 in 2010.
"Year after year, Virginia State Parks continue to host record numbers of visitors," said Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation State Parks Director Joe Elton.
The 2011 overall attendance of 7,836,246 visitors was the second highest in the state park system's 75-year history, down slightly from the record-high attendance of 8,065,558 in 2010.
"Hurricanes and tornados briefly closed a number of parks, in some cases for several weeks, and yet our daily attendance was the second highest in history, only a modest decline from 2010," Elton said. "In fact, our daily attendance increased in nearly half of our 35 parks. Virginia State Parks remain a primary vacation destination for millions of people looking for affordable opportunities to enjoy Virginia's great outdoors."
Because Virginia State Parks generally are in less developed areas, they remain an important economic stimulant in rural communities when millions of visitors spend tens of millions of dollars on local goods and services.
"Our state parks continue to be an excellent investment for the state," Elton said. "Our parks help generate more than $10 to the local economy for every $1 of general fund money allocated to state parks in the state budget."
Virginia State Parks are managed by the Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation and offer dozens of festivals and concerts and thousands of educational programs across the state.
For more information about state park activities and amenities, or to make reservations in one of the 25 parks with camping facilities or 18 parks with cabins or family lodges, call the Virginia State Parks Reservation Center at 800-933-PARK or visit www.virginiastateparks.gov. |
Popular Mystery Dinner Theatre Production
Returns To Wilderness Road
![]() You are invited to dinner at Karlan Mansion to help Lt. Gum Shoe solve a "whodunit" mystery. Back by popular demand, the original Mystery Dinner Theatre production; Just Kill Me Now (Aw, Shoot), returns to Wilderness Road State Park for two exciting and suspenseful weekends in February. Tickets are now on sale for all four performances, scheduled for February 17 - 18 and February 24 - 25. Doors open at 6:30 p.m with guests asked to arrive early and be seated so the show can begin promptly at 7 p.m.
The evening performance of this tongue-in-cheek mystery will be a dinner and a mystery themed event, accompanied by a three-course meal of salad, pasta and dessert. The action unfolds all around the guests, who will interact with colorful characters such Miles the butler, Fifi and Mimi the French Maids, Chef Cookie and Madame Molly to collect clues and help solve the mystery.
"This play is an original production, written exclusively for Wilderness Road State Park, and the cast is comprised of park employees and local talent from communities in the area," explained park manager Jon Tustin.
Last year's performances sold out quickly, prompting park officials to bring back the popular event. "I think we were all amazed at the popularity of the event," stated concessions manager Mike Brindle, who portrays Miles the butler. "The demand for tickets was overwhelming. We are excited to do it again. And for those that helped us solve the mystery last year, well... we have a few surprises this season!"
Tickets for this unique event are on sale now! Admission is $15 per person. Early reservations are recommended, and advanced tickets are required, as seating is limited (only 50 seats available). Tickets can be purchased in person at the Wilderness Road State Park Visitor Center or by mailing a check or money order to: Wilderness Road State Park, 8051 Wilderness Road, Ewing, VA 24248, or call 276-445-3065 to pay with a credit card over the phone. This program is best suited for adults and children ages 13 and above.
For more information, please contact the park office at 276-445-3065 or visit the Friends of Wilderness Road State Park official website: www.friendsofwildernessroad.org |
Sailor's Creek Announces
ACW History Events Program for 2012 Samuel V. Wilson, Jr., Chief Ranger - Interpretation, Sailor's Creek Battlefield State Park
![Click to enlarge photo]() Sailor's Creek Battlefield Historical State Park announces a new American Civil War history program, a series of 25 events, over the next 12 months for general public participation and especially for students of all ages. It will be a part of its public programming for 2012. Events throughout the year will range from outdoor re-enactor events, to workshops, to interpretive talks and venues, and period cultural events.
Over the course of the year, visitors will be exposed to a range and scope of history subjects that include, but are not restricted to, details of soldier life, Civil War medicine, cooking, camp life, weapons drill and firing, close order drill, and artillery drill.
Other events will feature antebellum valentine making, period music, art shows, domestic life, and social life.
![Click to enlarge photo]() There will also be periodic lectures and discussion programs on Civil War leaders and unusual or unique personalities and military operations, to include the role of Irish soldiers units and African American soldiers and units.
Most of these events, with an eye on the park's mission statement, will be reflective of the American Civil War 1865 Appomattox Campaign, which swept through Southside over an eight-day period.
Interested persons should watch for the tag, "A Sailor's Creek ACW History Event," included in the public service announcements of forthcoming events.
The park plans to recognize those who attend or participate in the program. Gold, silver, or bronze park patches or medallions will be awarded at the end of the calendar year for 90%, 75%, and 60% participation in the planned 25 events of the series.
For more information on this program, contact the park visitor center at 804-561-7510 or email the park staff at sailorscreek@dcr.virginia.gov. |
Virginia State Parks Promote
Our Private Campground Friends Tom Cervenak, Marketing Manager, Virginia State Parks
![Click to enlarge]() In a wonderful collaboration with Anderson's Brochure Distribution, I had the opportunity to travel to Cleveland, Ohio as a representative for Virginia at the Ohio RV Super Show January 4-8. This is the largest Camping and RV show in the Midwest.
While at the show, I wasn't just doing my normal promotion of Virginia State Parks, but instead selling Virginia as a whole as an escape from what many say is the dreariest city in the United States, and not just because of the sports teams. I was able to distribute hundreds of the Virginia Campground Directory and the Bethpage/Grey's Point magazine. This is part of our Virginia Loves Camping partnership between Virginia State Parks and the Virginia Campground Association.
Since I grew up in Cleveland but have lived in Virginia since the late 80's, it was easy to promote why Virginia is a great place to vacation. From the ocean to the mountains we have a very beautiful state and approximately 20,000 campsites for visitors to camp. Having visited some of the private campgrounds, I was able to give them some firsthand knowledge of their many offerings and hopefully convinced many that in 2012, Virginia is where you want to take your vacations.
Although weather-wise I got a cold welcome back to Cleveland, from those attending the show I got a very warm reception. Below is information so you can receive a VCA directory to plan your next camping trip in Virginia. Whether staying in one of our beautiful State Parks or the many offerings of a private campground, Virginia is your camping destination!
FREE STATE CAMPGROUND DIRECTORY AVAILABLE
The 2012 edition of the Virginia Campground Directory is now available. The directory lists 68 campgrounds and RV parks throughout Virginia, including both public and private campgrounds. Also included is a state map showing the locations of the parks listed in the directory. A new feature for 2012 is the QR code on the front cover that enables those with smart phones to read the code and be taken directly to www.virginiacampgrounds.com website where they can visit the various parks online, complete with photos, reservation links and other important information.
The Directory can be ordered on line at www.virginiacampgrounds.com or by email to ToVCA@aol.com. The directory can also be downloaded in a pdf version from the website.
The directory is offered free of charge. For immediate response and for our Canadian friends, please order by mail with a self-addressed, stamped envelope ($.64 US) to Virginia Campground Directory, PO Box 99238, McLean, VA 22102.
Quantities are limited and the demand is exceptionally great so to be assured of receiving your directory to plan your 2012 summer camping vacations, be sure to order early. |
Care Packages for Soldiers
Sarah Percival, Chief Ranger, Leesylvania State Park
![Click Here to enlarge photo]() On January 14th, Leesylvania State Park held an event to make care packages for soldiers to show our appreciation for all that they do.
We had 35 people, active military, civilians, children, and retired military, come out to donate items and volunteer their time to box the goodies. We had a student group, the Military Pride Club, lend us a hand in supporting the troops. The students are military dependants or the children of parents serving in other areas of government that require moves and deployment.
We set a goal of 50 boxes, but were pleasantly surprised that two hours had gone by and we had filled 100 boxes with goodies for our service members. The boxes included books, cookies, snacks, pen and paper, wet wipes, hand warmers, hot chocolate, puzzles, playing cards, etc. The children made cards with a personal message of "Thank you" to send along in each box.
![Click Here to enlarge photo]() I was overwhelmed with all the donations, the time spent on making the boxes with goodies, and the volunteers that wanted to keep on giving and went out and purchased more items for the boxes during the event. It is truly a blessing that Leesylvania has all these wonderful volunteers that want to help out.
The boxes were dropped off at Operation Home Front, who will send these care packages overseas. This is a small token of appreciation for all service members and we hope the packages will bring a little piece of home to them. We look forward to working with our amazing volunteers to brighten the day of some of our deployed heroes in the future.
For more information please contact the Visitor Center at 703-583-6904 or email at leesylvaniavc@dcr.virginia.gov. |
Festivals 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. |
|
False Cape State Park 01/01/2012 - 12/31/2012 Outreach Education 9:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. Can't come to us? Although field experience is important to education, our park staff can conduct outreach programs at your school, church, civic group meeting or other arena that can be tailored to your current lesson plans or needs. Touch tables, power point presentations and other related activities are provided to bring the outdoors "in". The fee for an Outreach Program is $10 for 2 hours. Location - False Cape State Park Phone - (757) 426-7128
01/01/2012 - 12/31/2012 Field Trips 9:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. Imagine learning about wetlands while standing in the marshes of Back Bay. See what a maritime forest looks like or explore the beach and the many animal habitats in between. Have an outdoor lunch on a picnic table overlooking Back Bay, breathe the fresh air and immerse yourself and your students in a wonderful and educational field experience at False Cape State Park. Programs available include Meaningful Watershed Educational Experience and Marsh Exploration, Habitat & Life Cycles, Coastal Field Experience, and Life Across A Spit. Program cost is $75/group plus a $36 round-trip bus transportation fee. Location - Little Island City Park Phone - (757) 426-7128
01/28/2012 - 01/29/2012 Winter Wildlife Festival Virginia Beach, False Cape State Park, First Landing State Park and several conservation groups host the Winter Wildlife Festival. Registration usually begins in November; event fees vary by program. You'll find 2011 program information here, http://bit.ly/nfoFPK, which will be updated by Virginia Beach's Parks and Recreation Department in fall 2011. Location - Throughout City of Virginia Beach Phone - (757) 426-7128
|
First Landing State Park 01/05/2012 - 12/31/2012 Educational Outreach Can't make it out to the park, let the park come to you. A Park Interpreter can conduct a exciting interactive program on any of the following topics: An Introduction to First Landing State - Common Animals of the Maritime Forest, The Chesapeake Bay Watershed (with optional water quality testing activities), The History of the Chesapean Indians and the First Landing, The Civilian Conservation Corp and the creation of First Landing State Park, What Do Rangers Do?, and many more. Please ask for the VA SOL correlations for the program of your interest. Program fees are $10/hr. Location - First Landing State Park Phone - (757) 412-2306
01/05/2012 - 12/31/2012 First Landing Field Trips First Landing State Park offers access to a variety of habitats and both natural and historic resources. With a mile and half of beach on the Chesapeake Bay, swamps, forest, creeks, and marshes there is plenty to discover and explore. First Landing State Park offers hands on outdoor learning experiences for groups of all ages. All programs are tailored by the interpretive staff to meet the specific grade level needs of the participants. Please inquire how each of the programs correlate to the Virginia SOLs! Program fees are $10/hr. Location - First Landing State Park Phone - (757) 412-2306
01/28/2012 - 01/29/2012 Winter Wildlife Festival Virginia Beach, False Cape State Park, First Landing State Park and several conservation groups host the Winter Wildlife Festival. Registration usually begins in November; event fees vary by program. You'll find 2011 program information here, http://bit.ly/nfoFPK, which will be updated by Virginia Beach's Parks and Recreation Department in fall 2011. Location - Throught City of Virginia Beach Phone - (757) 412-2320
|
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. |
| |
Belle Isle State Park 01/28/2012 Early Inhabitants of the Northern Neck 1:00 p.m. - 2:00 p.m. People lived in the Northern Neck area for 10,000 years before European contact. This lecture will discuss the ancient people of the area through the local Virginia Indian groups that were described by John Smith. Some replica artifacts will be available for study. Location - Visitor Center Phone - (804) 462-5030
|
Caledon Natural Area 01/20/2012 Howl Prowl 7:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m. Coyotes can be found all over Virginia. Join us for a short indoor talk followed by a hayride. We will use a caller to see if we can get our local group to howl. $3/person or $8/family. Call the park for more info and to make the required reservations. Location - Visitor Center Phone - (540) 663-3861
01/21/2012 Star Parties on the Lawn The Rappahannock Astronomy Club presents an evening of deep space viewing. Check out galaxies, stars, planets and other celestial phenomena. Bring your own telescope or look through a club member's. The program begins 1/2 hour after sunset. Location - Front field near the Picnic Shelter Phone - (540) 663-3861
01/21/2012 Civil War Escape 10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. Take a ride back in time and explore the unique history of Caledon and the part it played in the Civil War. Samuel the farm manager will be your guide and will show you some of the common items and tools from the period. The Jan date will be in our van and the Apr dates will be on our hay wagon. $3/person or $8/family. Call the park for more info and to make the required reservations. Location - Visitor Center Phone - (540) 663-3861
01/21/2012 Winter Sunset Tour 4:00 p.m. - 6:00 p.m. Early evening is when the park comes alive, as both nocturnal and diurnal animals are active. The winter sun produces spectacular sunsets on the Potomac River, so dress warmly and bring your camera. The tour will be in our van so we will have a chance to get warm between stops. Call the park for more info and to make the required reservations. $3/person or $8/family. Location - Meet at the Visitor Center Phone - (540) 663-3861
01/28/2012 I Spy Van Ride 1:00 p.m. - 2:30 p.m. Bring the family out for a fun scavenger hunt by van. We will be looking for things like eagles, wild turkeys, deer, hawks, tree with knees and other natural wonders. The winter forest is alive with wildlife if you know where to look and this is a great way to beat cabin fever. $3 per person and $8 per family Reservations required. Location - Meet at Visitor Center Phone - (540) 663-3861
|
Chippokes Plantation State Park 07/05/2011 - 06/30/2012 Educational Outreach Can't make it out to the park, let the park come to you. A Park Interpreter can conduct a exciting interactive program on many SOL-based topics using the EPA award winning, Your Backyard Classroom curriculum. Registration fees vary. Location - Off Site Phone - (757) 294-3728
07/05/2011 - 06/30/2012 Private Field Trips Chippokes State Park offers access to a variety of habitats and both natural and historic resources. With a beach on the James River swamps, forest, creeks, marshes, historic mansion and outbuildings, and agricultural sites there is plenty to discover and explore. Chippokes offers hands on outdoor learning experiences for groups of all ages. All programs are tailored by the interpretive staff to meet the specific grade level needs of the participants. Please inquire how each of the programs correlate to the Virginia SOLs! Program registration fees vary. Location - Chippokes Plantation State Park Phone - (757) 294-3728
07/06/2011 - 06/30/2012 Park Packs 9:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m. Want a little more for your day trip or overnight stay at Chippokes? Then a Park Pack is what you need! A Park Pack will help you explore the park on your own. Each pack contains binoculars, guide books, story books, birdsong players, and more. Park Pack themes include the Birding, History, Wetlands, Fossils, Wildlife, and Native Americans. Check out a Park Pack for up to 3 days at the Park Office Mon-Fri. 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. There is no fee to check out a pack. Location - Visitor Center Phone - (757) 294-3728
|
Claytor Lake State Park 11/15/2011 - 11/15/2012 Kids in Parks Track Trail Adventures Looking for ways to connect with nature, increase physical activity, and improve nutritional choices? Claytor Lake State Park has the answer. Shady Ridge Trail is now part of the Kids in Parks Initiative sponsored by the Blue Ridge Parkway Foundation, the Blue Ridge Parkway and the Blue Cross and Blue Shield of North Carolina Foundation. TRACK Trail adventures are designed to help kids explore nature through the use of self-guided brochures. TRACK Trail adventures are fun, healthy and free. Within the pages of each brochure a different story unfolds. Brochures are readily available at the Claytor Lake State Park Shady Ridge Trail Head, so what are you waiting for? The Track Trail program is fun, because you can record all your outdoor adventures while earning cool Trail TRACKer Gear. Trail TRACKer Gear is designed to help you and your family have more fun when you explore nature. Since the gear gets better and better every time you TRACK a trail... you'll want to track as many trails as you can. Please visit the following website for additinal information and to start Trail Tracking. http://kidsinparks.com/index.php Location - Shady Ridge Trail Phone - (540) 643-2500
11/15/2011 - 11/15/2012 Claytor Lake State Park's GPS Adventures! Geocaching is a real-world, outdoor treasure hunting game using GPS-enabled devices. Participants navigate to a specific set of GPS coordinates and then attempt to find the geocache (container) hidden at that location. Claytor Lake State Park's GPS Adventures uses the sport of geocaching to help facilitate outdoor environmental education and recreation. If you have a GPS device all you need to get started is a brochure. Drop in and pickup one from the park Visitor Center. The current brochure is titled Geological Formations and Discoveries. GPS units are also available for rent from the park office. Half Day rate- $6.00 Full Day rate- $10.00 Location - Claytor Lake State Park Trail System Phone - (540) 643-2500
|
Douthat State Park 01/01/2012 - 12/31/2012 The Bear Necessities (Douthat Wildlife Geocaching Adventure) The Bear Necessities is a multi cache located in the mountain woodlands of Douthat State Park. It is a three stage multi cache and instructions will be provided in each stage. The stages are in 64 oz. plastic boxes. It is possible to walk between the stages, but you may want to drive and park in the locations indicated in each stage. Search VSP Douthat Wildlife Adventure at http://www.geocaching.com for all the information needed to get started. Location - Park Office Phone - (540) 862-8100
|
False Cape State Park 01/01/2012 - 12/31/2012 Customized Group Tours 9:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. Group interpretive programs are available for families, scout groups, friends, or other organizations of at least 10 people. Customized programs may include Kayaking, Stargazing and Owl Hooting, Wilderness Survival Skills, Finding Your Way, Coastal Plant Uses, and Wildlife Safari. Registration fees vary depending on program and needs. Call the park for more information at (757) 426-7128. Location - Little Island City Park Phone - (757) 426-7128
01/01/2012 - 12/31/2012 Nature Adventure Backpacks 9:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. False Cape State Park has packed this backpack with lots of tools and toys that you can use as you explore the natural world at False Cape State Park. Inside this backpack you will find a magnifying glass, bug/dip net, viewing jar, multi-function binoculars, field guides, nature journal and sketchbook with pencils. Backpacks are free and are available to be checked out on a daily basis at the park's Visitor Center. Location - False Cape Visitor Center Phone - (757) 426-7128
01/01/2012 - 12/31/2012 GPS Rental Units and Activities 9:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. False Cape State Park has GPS units for rent. Rentals include a GPS Unit with a GPS Activities brochure, and instructions for use. Activities include Geocaching, Virtual Geocache, GPS Nature Trail, and Find Sally. The cost is $6 per unit and can be obtained on a daily basis at the park's Visitor Center. Location - False Cape Visitor Center Phone - (757) 426-7128
01/22/2012 Welcome to Wash Woods History Tour 1:00 p.m. - 4:30 p.m. Take a scenic tram ride through Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge to the site of the historic Wash Woods community in what is now False Cape State Park. Hike the one-mile (round-trip) nature trail to the church and cemetery site where the steeple and gravestones remain. Reservations are not required. First-come first-serve basis. Cost: $8/adults; $6/children & seniors. Location - Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge Phone - (757) 301-7329
|
First Landing State Park 01/05/2012 - 12/31/2012 Bald Cypress Trail Self Guided Tour Can't make it to one of the programs or want to explore on your own? Learn plenty of information about the uniqueness of the Bald Cypress Swamps and the maritime forest through the self guided Bald Cypress Interpretive trail. Purchase a Bald Cypress Brochure full of fascinating, fun facts about the ecosystem and the history of the park. The brochure will guide you through the interpretive stops located along the Bald Cypress Trail. Brochures can be purchased for $.50 at the Park Office. Location - Park Main Office Phone - (757) 412-2300
01/05/2012 - 12/31/2012 Park Packs 9:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m. Want a little more for your day trip or overnight stay at First Landing? Then a Park Pack is what you need! A Park Pack will help you explore the park on your own. Each pack contains binoculars, guide books, story books, birdsong players, and more. Park Pack themes include the Chesapeake Bay, the Bald Cypress Swamps, Native Americans, Colonial Times, and Nocturnal Animals. Check out a Park Pack for up to 3 days at the Park Office Mon-Fri. 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Location - Main Office Phone - (757) 412-2300
|
Leesylvania State Park 01/28/2012 The Lee's of Leesylvania 11:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m. Learn about "Lighthorse Harry" Lee, Revolutionary War hero and father of Confederate General Robert E. Lee, as we celebrate his family's rich history. Tour the land of his birth, visit our museum and speak with knowledgeable park staff about his accomplishments. Performers will be on-hand to showcase life during colonial times with historic dress, displays and traditions. Location - Visitor Center Phone - (703) 583-6904
|
Mason Neck State Park 01/21/2012 Wild for Winter Waterfowl 9:00 a.m. - 10:00 a.m. Join us as we observe swans, ducks and other migrating waterfowl that reside in Belmont Bay during the winter months. We'll have a spotting scope available for public use. Location - Meet at Visitor Center Phone - (703) 339-2384
01/21/2012 Lost and Found GPS Adventures 1:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m. Join us on this one mile hike with park GPS units. You will experience nature while searching for hidden caches! This program is most appropriate for ages six and up. Maximum of 10 people. First come, first served. Location - Meet at Visitor Center Phone - (703) 339-2384
01/22/2012 Winter Ranger Hike 1:00 p.m. - 2:00 p.m. This guided hike departs from the Bay View Trail head and is for all people who enjoy nature. This hike allows park visitors to see the bay up close, as the ranger explains the wildlife around the park, and what we can all do to preserve natural beauty. Bring sturdy shoes, water and your camera. Dress appropriately for the weather. Location - Meet at Bayview Trail Head Phone - (703) 339-2384
01/22/2012 Wild for Winter Waterfowl 3:00 p.m. - 3:30 p.m. Join us as we observe swans, ducks and other migrating waterfowl that reside in Belmont Bay during the winter months. We'll have a spotting scope available for public use. Location - Meet at Visitor Center Phone - (703) 339-2384
01/28/2012 Wild for Winter Waterfowl 9:00 a.m. - 10:00 a.m. Join us as we observe swans, ducks and other migrating waterfowl that reside in Belmont Bay during the winter months. We'll have a spotting scope available for public use. Location - Meet at Visitor Center Phone - (703) 339-2384
01/28/2012 Lost and Found GPS Adventures 1:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m. Join us on this one mile hike with park GPS units. You will experience nature while searching for hidden caches! This program is most appropriate for ages six and up. Maximum of 10 people. First come, first served. Location - Meet at Visitor Center Phone - (703) 339-2384
01/28/2012 Majestic Eagles 4:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m. Take advantage of an outstanding opportunity to view bald eagles as they soar over the park. The program is free and open to the public. Watch as the eagles glide across the skies over Belmont Bay. A spotting scope and binoculars will be available, but quests are encouraged to bring their own binoculars and cameras. Dress appropriately for the weather. Location - Meet at Visitor Center Phone - (703) 339-2384
|
York River State Park 07/19/2011 - 12/31/2012 Field Trips/School Outreach York River State Park offers access to a variety of habitats and both natural and historic resources. With access to the York River, forest, creeks, and marshes there is plenty to discover and explore. York River State Park offers hands on outdoor learning experiences for groups of all ages. All programs are tailored by the interpretive staff to meet the specific grade level needs of the participants. Please inquire how each of the programs correlate to the Virginia SOLs! Guided hikes, paddling, and wetlands programs are available. Fees vary. Call the park for scheduling and fee information. Location - Various Phone - (757) 566-8523
07/19/2011 - 12/31/2012 Park Packs 9:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m. Want to enhance your visit to York River State Park? Then a Park Pack is what you need! A Park Pack will help you explore the park on your own. Each pack contains binoculars, guide books, story books, birdsong players, and more. Park Pack themes include Birding, History, Rivers, and more. Check out a Park Pack for up to 3 days at the Park Office Mon-Fri. 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Location - Visitor Center Phone - (757) 566-8523
01/21/2012 Eastern Virginia Mountain Bike Association Group Ride 10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. Put your skills to the test with the EVMA ( http://evma.org) on some of the most challenging trails east of the Blue Ridge. Marl Ravine passes through a rare shell-marl habitat and is a favorite of experienced competition and weekend riders. Beginner and intermediate riders can build their abilities on Laurel Glen and the new Bobcat Run trails. The EVMA is instrumental in maintaining our bike trails and promoting fun and safety in the sport. Visit their website for more biking opportunities. Location - Contact Station Phone - (757) 566-8523
01/21/2012 Stargazing 5:30 p.m. - 11:45 p.m. Join the Virginia Peninsula Astronomy Stargazers for a night of wonder and discovery. Away from the city lights, the broad cliffs above the York River are perfect for observing constelations, planets, and other features in the night sky. There is no fee for this program. Location - Contact Station Phone - (757) 566-8523
01/22/2012 Getting To Know Us 2:30 p.m. - 3:30 p.m. New Time Are you new to the Williamsburg area? Perhaps you are looking for a location for a family or organization event. Take a guided tour of our day use area to see what our park has to offer. Picnic shelters, playgrounds, boating, and access to the York River shoreline are just a short drive from Virginia's Historic Triangle. Location - Contact Station Phone - (757) 566-8523
01/28/2012 Eastern Virginia Mountain Bike Association Group Ride 10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. Put your skills to the test with the EVMA ( http://evma.org) on some of the most challenging trails east of the Blue Ridge. Marl Ravine passes through a rare shell-marl habitat and is a favorite of experienced competition and weekend riders. Beginner and intermediate riders can build their abilities on Laurel Glen and the new Bobcat Run trails. The EVMA is instrumental in maintaining our bike trails and promoting fun and safety in the sport. Visit their website for more biking opportunities. Location - Contact Station Phone - (757) 566-8523
|
Become A Virginia State Parks Travel Writer ![Constant Contact 2009 All Star Award]() Share your favorite State Parks story with other eNews readers. Submit your story - with or without pictures - to Don.Byrne@dcr.virginia.gov. Don't wish to write an article? We also welcome any pictures you might care to share. |
|
|