Welcome to Virginia's State Parks

Virginia, often referred to as 'VA', is a treasure trove of natural wonders, steeped in history and brimming with unique attractions. Its state parks, each with its distinct charm, offer a myriad of adventures that cater to all types of travelers. From the coastal beauty of First Landing State Park to the mountainous terrain of Grayson Highlands, there's a perfect park for everyone.

Exploring VA's State Parks

Whether you're a seasoned camper or a first-time adventurer, VA's state parks are designed to offer an immersive experience in nature. Each park is equipped with camping facilities that range from rustic tent sites to fully equipped cabins.

Top State Parks for Camping

• First Landing State Park: Known for its stunning beachfront and diverse wildlife.
• Grayson Highlands State Park: Celebrated for its sweeping mountain vistas and wild herds of ponies.
• Shenandoah River State Park: Renowned for its water activities, including fishing and canoeing.

Activities in VA State Parks

Each state park in VA offers a range of activities that allow you to explore and appreciate the natural beauty of the area. Hiking, biking, fishing, boating, and wildlife viewing are just a few of the many activities you can enjoy.

Best Time to Visit

While VA's state parks are open year-round, the best time to visit depends on the activities you're interested in. Spring and fall are ideal for hiking and wildlife viewing, while summer is perfect for beach activities and boating.

Preserving VA's Natural Beauty

When visiting VA's state parks, it's important to respect the natural environment and adhere to the principles of 'Leave No Trace'. This includes carrying out all trash, staying on designated trails, and respecting wildlife.

Hidden Gems & Off-the-Beat-Path

Virginia, the Old Dominion State, is filled with hidden gems and off-the-beaten-path destinations that boast of scenic beauty and unique experiences. One such place is the Shenandoah National Park's quieter cousin, Grayson Highlands State Park, nestled in the Appalachian Mountains. Known for its wild ponies, sweeping mountain views, and hiking trails, this park offers a tranquil escape from the bustling cities.

Meanwhile, nestled in the heart of the Shenandoah Valley, you'll find the charming town of Lexington. With its rich Civil War history, Lexington is home to two historic universities, Washington and Lee University and Virginia Military Institute. The town's Main Street is a treasure trove of antique shops, boutiques, and farm-to-table restaurants.

Local Traditions & Culture

Virginia's cultural scene is a vibrant mix of old and new. One of the most distinctive traditions is the Virginia Foxhound Show, held annually at Morven Park in Leesburg. This event showcases the state's deep-rooted foxhunting tradition and offers a glimpse into Virginia's rural culture.

Virginia also has a robust arts scene, with Richmond's Broad Street known as the 'Gallery Row'. The First Fridays Art Walk on Broad Street is a must-visit, where art galleries and venues open their doors to showcase local and national artworks.

For a taste of local food culture, travelers should not miss the Urbanna Oyster Festival. This annual event celebrates the state's oyster industry and offers a range of oyster dishes, from raw to grilled, and even oyster ice cream.

Best Viewpoints & Photography Spots

Virginia's diverse landscape offers numerous viewpoints and photography spots. The Natural Bridge, a National Historic Landmark and once owned by Thomas Jefferson, offers a unique natural formation perfect for photography.

For panoramic views of the Blue Ridge Mountains, head to the Peaks of Otter along the Blue Ridge Parkway. The Sharp Top Trail leads to the summit, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.

Virginia's coastline also offers stunning photography spots. The Chesapeake Bay Bridge-Tunnel, a 23-mile engineering marvel, provides spectacular views of the Chesapeake Bay and the Atlantic Ocean.

Seasonal Highlights

Each season in Virginia offers unique highlights. Spring brings a burst of colors with wildflowers blooming across the state. One of the best places to experience this is the Meadowlark Botanical Gardens in Vienna, featuring more than 20 cherry trees and various other flowering plants.

Summer is the perfect time to explore Virginia's beaches, with Sandbridge Beach being a quieter alternative to the bustling Virginia Beach.

In fall, the state transforms into a vibrant canvas of reds, oranges, and yellows. Skyline Drive in Shenandoah National Park offers an unforgettable fall foliage drive.

Winter, on the other hand, turns Virginia into a winter wonderland. Massanutten Resort in the Shenandoah Valley offers a range of winter activities, including skiing, snowboarding, and tubing.

Local Cuisine & Food Scene

Virginia, fondly referred to as the Old Dominion, is a gastronomic playground for food lovers. Its food scene represents a fusion of diverse cultures and ages-old culinary traditions, offering a unique blend of the old and the new.

In Richmond, the state capital, you'll find a burgeoning food scene that proudly showcases Southern influences. The city is known for its comfort foods like the Brunswick stew, a tomato-based concoction filled with various types of meats and vegetables. For the seafood lovers, Chesapeake Bay offers a bounty of fresh seafood. Don't miss out on trying the famous Chesapeake Bay blue crabs or the world-renowned Chincoteague oysters.

The culinary landscape of Virginia also includes a strong farm-to-table movement. In places like Charlottesville and Loudoun County, local restaurants source their ingredients directly from neighboring farms, ensuring the freshest tastes possible.

Getting Around & Transportation

Virginia is known for its well-structured transportation system. For long distance travel, the state has several airports including the Norfolk International Airport and the Richmond International Airport. There's also the Washington Dulles International Airport, which is located in Northern Virginia.

For intra-city travel, many cities in Virginia have reliable public transportation systems. The Metro in Northern Virginia provides convenient access to Washington D.C., while bus services like the Greater Richmond Transit Company (GRTC) in Richmond offer extensive coverage of the city.

Renting a car is also a popular option for getting around, particularly for visiting the state's scenic countryside. Companies like Enterprise, Hertz, and Budget have outlets throughout the state.

Budget Tips & Money Saving

Traveling in Virginia can be as affordable as you make it. Here are some tips to stretch your dollar further.

• Consider visiting during the shoulder seasons (spring and fall) when the weather is pleasant and prices are generally lower than the peak summer season.
• Take advantage of the many free or low-cost activities available, such as hiking in the Shenandoah National Park or exploring the Virginia Beach Boardwalk.
• Instead of eating out for every meal, consider visiting local farmers markets like the Charlottesville City Market or the Williamsburg Farmers Market. They offer a wide range of fresh and local produce, perfect for a picnic or a self-catered meal.
• Utilize public transportation or consider renting a bike for shorter distances. Many cities in Virginia are bike-friendly, and it's a cost-effective and enjoyable way to get around.

Safety & Practical Information

Virginia is generally a safe destination for tourists. However, like any other place, it's always important to take basic safety precautions. Always keep your personal belongings secure and be aware of your surroundings, particularly in crowded tourist areas and at night.

When exploring the outdoors, be prepared for sudden weather changes and familiarize yourself with local wildlife. If you’re heading to the coast, be mindful of rip currents and always obey lifeguard instructions.

Virginia's healthcare facilities are excellent. However, it's always a good idea to have travel insurance that covers health emergencies.

Lastly, remember that Virginia is in the Eastern Time Zone and observes daylight saving time. The state's currency is the US dollar, and English is the primary language spoken here.