How to have the best stargazing adventure in Virginia State Parks

Save the date for Staunton River State Park's Spring Star Party on March 24-30.

If you're searching for the best stargazing spots in Virginia State Parks, consider visiting one of our four International Dark Sky Parks: Staunton River, James River, Natural Bridge and Sky Meadows. Here are some tips on where, when, and how to enhance your stargazing experience.

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A conversation with James, The Ethnic Explorer

Did you catch our conversation with James? With a mission to inspire more diversity in the outdoors, James is a local outdoorsman and YouTuber who enjoys sharing his various adventures with others. He joins us for a conversation about diversifying the outdoors, Black history, his favorite Virginia State Parks and more!

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James at Staunton River Battlefield State Park

Get your annual pass today!

Bluebells at Shenandoah River State Park

Save the date for Shenandoah River State Park's Bluebell Festival on April 5.

Spring is just around the corner! If you frequently visit Virginia State Parks, purchasing an annual pass is a great way to save money. The pass offers parking and admission to all state parks for a full 12 months, making it easy to access the parks. For the two parks that charge a per-person fee—Natural Bridge State Park and Southwest Virginia Museum State Park—the annual pass includes admission for up to four people.

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Upcoming Events

Voices from the Camp: A Civil War Living History Event

Feb. 22 & 23, 2025. 9 a.m. - 3 p.m.

High Bridge Trail State Park

Snakes Alive

Feb. 22, 2025. 2 - 3 p.m.

Lake Anna State Park

Friends of Fairy Stone Public Meeting

Feb. 22, 2025. 2 - 3 p.m.

Fairy Stone State Park

Turtle Time

Feb. 22, 2025. 10:45 - 10:55 a.m.

Westmoreland State Park

Survival Bracelets 101

Feb. 22, 2025. 1 - 2 p.m.

Douthat State Park

Virginia Master Naturalist Event: Invasive Species of Virginia

Feb. 23, 2025. 10 a.m. - 2 p.m.

Chippokes State Park

YCC Crew Member Applicant Information Session

Feb. 28, 2025. 5 p.m.

Virtual Meeting

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Work at Virginia State Parks

We are gearing up for summer employment! Want to have a great start to a rewarding career? Consider a part-time job at Virginia State Parks. Maintenance, interpretive rangers, office positions and more are available.

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