Department of Conservation and Recreation
Conserve. Protect. Enjoy.
Department of Conservation and Recreation
Join the Division of Natural Heritage in celebrating its 40th Anniversary in 2026! We are offering special events throughout the year to highlight who we are, what we do, and what we are passionate about. Events from guided hikes, short lectures, and work-day opportunities will be held from far Southwest Virginia to the Eastern Shore.
Finalized events are open for registration and are listed below in chronological order. They are shown on the map in blue. Trip details and sign-up instructions are provided for each event under ‘view details.’
Events still under development are also listed below after the finalized list. They are shown on the map in yellow. Check back often as new opportunities will be added throughout the year.
Date: September 19, 2026 10:00a.m. to 12:00p.m.
Location: Cherry Orchard Bog Natural Area Preserve, Sussex/Prince George Co. Virginia
Virginia's largest patch of flowering Turtleheads (Chelone cuthbertii) will be on display on this field trip led by a Natural Heritage steward and regional expert.
Date: September 27, 2026 10:00a.m. to 1:00p.m
Location: Grafton Ponds Natural Area Preserve, York Co. Virginia
Join a guided tour led by a Natural Heritage steward with intimate knowledge of the seasonal depression pond habitats and one of the rarest plant species present and its ongoing recovery.
Date: Oct 7, 2026 10:00a.m. to 2:00p.m.
Location: Cleveland Barrens Natural Area Preserve, Cleveland, VA
Help us maintain the integrity of the Big Barren, home to the best Virginia population of American Bluehearts (Buchnera americana) that is vital to our conservation prioritization.
Date: October 12, 2026 - 1:00 p.m. to 4 p.m. For beginners, boats will be provided
Date: fall 2026
Location: Cypress Bridge Natural Area Preserve, Southampton Co. Virginia
A rare chance to view some of the oldest and most unusual trees in eastern Virginia with Byron Carmean, one of VA's most accomplished and dedicated champion tree documentors.
Date: late Sept or Early Oct 2026
Location: Chestnut Ridge Natural Area Preserve, Rocky Gap, VA
Ascend some mountain slopes to experience the wonder of an old growth forest.
