Skip the Crowds, Opt Outside and explore Virginia State Parks

Choose fresh air and adventure this Thanksgiving weekend

RICHMOND, Va. – Virginia State Parks will host the annual #OptOutside event to encourage people to take a break from screen time and shopping lines and opt outside for fun instead. The campaign will run from Nov. 28 through Dec. 1 at all Virginia State Park locations.  

Virginia State Parks will offer a variety of self-guided and ranger-led activities designed to help visitors of all ages create meaningful Thanksgiving memories outdoors. Reconnect with friends, family and nature through one of the many activities available. 

Here are examples of some of the programs: 

• Guided hikes with a park ranger 
• B.A.R.K. Ranger hikes with your pup 
• Bird and wildlife walks 
• History and heritage programs 
• Arts and crafts programs 
• Holiday-themed programs 

Consider one of these activities: 

• Nature crafting at Caledon, James River and York River 
• Self-guided trail tours at Claytor Lake and Sailor’s Creek Battlefield 
• Archery with Park Rangers at Widewater, Powhatan and Bear Creek Lake 
• Campfires at Fairy Stone, Sky Meadows and Pocahontas 
• Stargazing at False Cape and Staunton River 

For a complete list of Virginia State Parks Opt Outside activities, visit the programs and events section of the state parks website.  

Those with Virginia State Park license plates, free parking will be available on Nov. 28 in celebration of OptOutside Day. 

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Wayne Creed

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