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Media inquiries: Please contact Dave Neudeck, dave.neudeck@dcr.virginia.gov, 804-786-5053.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Date: May 21, 2026
Contact: Starr Anderson, Public Relations and Marketing Specialist, 540-460-1540, starr.anderson@dcr.virginia.gov

Douthat State Park celebrates 90 years, honors legacy of Civilian Conservation Corps

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Millboro, Va. — Virginia State Parks invites the public to celebrate the 90th anniversary of Douthat State Park on June 13, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., with a special event honoring the Civilian Conservation Corps, the remarkable workforce whose skill, determination and craftsmanship shaped the park’s earliest foundations.

Douthat opened in June 1936 as one of Virginia’s original six state parks and stands today as a testament to the enduring legacy of the young men of the CCC. Their work created many of the park’s signature features, including a number of cabins and trails and the iconic 50-acre lake that continues to draw visitors from across the region.

The anniversary celebration on June 13 will transport visitors back to the 1930s for an immersive look at CCC life. Visitors will learn about the men who built the park, explore historic structures and discover how the CCC’s work continues to benefit parkgoers nine decades later.

This family-friendly event will feature:

Live CCC-era demonstrations
Guided history walks highlighting original park structures
Informational booths and historic displays
Local vendors and food trucks (Visitors are encouraged to bring cash for vendor purchases, as credit and debit cards cannot be accepted due to limited internet service.)
Hands-on activities for visitors of all ages
Storytelling sessions that bring the 1930s to life

“Douthat’s 90th anniversary is a celebration of conservation, community and the impact of the CCC,” said Park Manager Adam Bresnehan. “We look forward to welcoming visitors to honor this important history and enjoy a meaningful day outdoors.”

For more information about Douthat’s Anniversary: Celebrating 90 years, visit http://www.virginiastateparks.gov/douthat-events.

The anniversary celebration at Douthat State Park is part of Virginia State Parks’ statewide History and Culture Weekend, a special series of programs marking the park system’s 90th anniversary.

Throughout the weekend, parks across the commonwealth will highlight the stories, people and traditions that shaped their history. To learn more, please go to https://www.dcr.virginia.gov/state-parks/history-culture-day.

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About Virginia State Parks

Virginia State Parks are managed by the Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation. For more information about Virginia State Parks’ activities and amenities or to reserve one of the more than 1,800 campsites or 300 climate-controlled cabins, call the Virginia State Parks Reservation Center at 800-933-PARK or visit www.virginiastateparks.gov.

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