What's happening this month in Virginia State Parks
August
More summer fun awaits you at your Virginia State Parks in August! When was the last time you looked up at a starry night sky, listened to live music outdoors, took a paddle tour, connected with wildlife in nature, or made memories with your family at a state park? There’s still time to do all this and more this summer! Want to learn how to kayak, backpack camp, fly fish, go orienteering or shoot a bow? Check out our Let's Go Adventures program!
Events Sampler:
Aug. 1, 2026. 11 a.m. - 2 p.m.
Mason Neck State Park
Come see what Mason Neck State Park has to offer on International Adaptive Activity Day. Discover the beauty of inclusive outdoor adventures at our special event.
Aug. 7, 14, 21 & 28, 2026. Start time at 7:30 or 8 p.m.
Natural Bridge State Park
Watch the last traces of daylight strike the Blue Ridge Mountains on this haywagon ride. Take in mountain views on this family-friendly trip on Skyline Trail with a ranger guide pointing out different peaks, plants, and nocturnal animals you could encounter along the way. Pre-registration is required.
Aug. 8, 2026. 12 - 9 p.m.
Culpeper Battlefields State Park
Join us to commemorate the 164th anniversary of the Battle of Cedar Mountain! We will learn about the exploits of the famous Stonewall Brigade and Rockbridge artillery. Join us for specialized tours, battlefield maneuvers with living historians, artillery fire demonstrations, and so much more. Registration required.
Aug. 9 & 23, 2026. 10 - 11 a.m.
Hungry Mother State Park
Join certified Forest Therapy volunteer, Tina Hayes, for a relaxing program made to calm the mind. Explore helpful ways to relax and de-stress yourself in nature while learning about the history and culture of using nature as a means of therapy.
Aug. 12, 2026. 12 - 2 p.m.
Smith Mountain Lake State Park
All aboard the Virginia Dare for a fun-filled and informative lunch cruise. Enjoy a delicious lunch and tour down the lake to the dam. On the return trip enjoy a presentation from our park interpretive ranger about the wildlife that call Smith Mountain Lake home.
Come out to Grayson Highlands State Park for a magical night under the stars and witness the amazing Perseid Meteor Shower. With one of the best night sky views in the state, this is the perfect location to view the meteors passing through the atmosphere.
Aug. 15, 2026. 6-10 p.m.
Pocahontas State Park
Pocahontas Premieres once again is having its Mini Bluegrass Festival. This 2026 concert brings back some performers from the past as well as some new groups performing for the first time at Pocahontas State Park.
Join the Rangers of False Cape for a delightful treat to celebrate the 100th anniversary of the Department of Conservation and Recreation. Come out to the park Visitor Center to roast a hotdog or make a s'more, chat with the Rangers, and compete in a family friendly trivia match.
Aug. 25, 2026. 9 a.m. - 12 p.m.
Raymond R. "Andy" Guest, Jr. Shenandoah River State Park
Take an unforgettable journey above and below the water as we explore the hidden world of the river. Participants will paddle a two‑mile stretch by kayak, stopping along the way to slip beneath the surface and discover what lives beneath the current. Registration required.
Ever wonder what goes on at night in a park? Want to know what is lurking around at night? Explore the thrilling sights, smells, and sounds of night along with interesting night life. Park guides will take you on a hike through the park.
Aug. 29, 2026. 8 - 10 p.m.
Natural Bridge State Park
A nearly century-long tradition continues as the Natural Bridge is bathed in light. Experience the 200-foot-tall arch as it is lit from above and below by dozens of lights, with the only sound being the murmuring of Cedar Creek running below.
Aug. 30, 2026. 7- 9 p.m.
High Bridge Trail State Park
Experience the beauty of High Bridge Trail under the enchanting light of the setting sun and the rising moon. This is a unique opportunity to explore High Bridge Trail during the evening and encounter the sights and sounds of night time along the Appomattox River.
As the sun dips low and the night draws near, we humans usually turn in for the night...but this is show-time for bats! Join us to celebrate these amazing animals during this special series in collaboration with Bat Conservation & Rescue of Virginia.
Pollinator Events
Aug. 1, 2026. 9 - 10:30 a.m.
Sweet Run State Park
Sweet Run State Park
Aug. 1, 2026. 5 - 6 p.m.
Staunton River State Park
Staunton River State Park
Aug. 1, 2026. 10:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m.
Sky Meadows State Park
Sky Meadows State Park
Aug. 1, 2026. 3 - 4 p.m.
Staunton River State Park
Staunton River State Park
Aug. 7, 14, 21 & 28, 2026. 1 - 2 p.m.
Hungry Mother State Park
Hungry Mother State Park
Aug. 8 & 19, 2026. 9:30 - 11:30 a.m.
Mason Neck State Park
Mason Neck State Park
Aug. 15, 2026. 10 a.m. - 2 p.m.
Sky Meadows State Park
Sky Meadows State Park
Aug. 22, 2026. 10 a.m. - 2 p.m.
Sailor's Creek Battlefield State Park
Sailor's Creek Battlefield State Park
