Virginia State Parks celebrates National Public Lands Day, provides free parking and a range of volunteer opportunities

RICHMOND, Va. – On Saturday, Sept. 27, Virginia’s state parks will celebrate National Public Lands Day, the nation’s largest single-day volunteer effort for public lands.  

Held every year on the fourth Saturday in September, NPLD highlights the vital impact of public lands and brings together hundreds of thousands of volunteers across the country, fostering community and teamwork.  

In Virginia, the state park system offers 43 parks, totaling roughly 80,000 acres, for public benefit. Each park relies heavily on volunteers for everything from trail maintenance to interpretive programs. In 2024 alone, volunteers across the state donated 221,132 hours of service, equivalent to 110 full-time employees.  

For NPLD, Virginia State Parks is hosting more than 35 volunteer opportunities, including invasive species removal, beach and trail cleanups and habitat restoration. Parks will also offer a range of environmental education activities, such as guided hikes, bird surveys and tree identification programs. For the complete list of NPLD events, go to www.virginiastateparks.gov/public-lands-day.  

“National Public Lands Day is a reminder of the value these shared spaces hold for every Virginian,” said Virginia State Parks Director Dr. Melissa Baker. “It’s a day to celebrate the natural beauty and history preserved in our parks while recognizing the volunteers and partners who help us protect these lands for future generations.” 

Volunteers should dress for the weather and the project and bring water, insect repellent and sunscreen. Standard parking fees, such as trailhead parking, will be waived at most state parks for NPLD.  

The parking fee at Grayson Highlands and the admission fees for Natural Bridge and Southwest Virginia Museum will not be waived. To learn more, go to www.virginiastateparks.gov/parking-fees.  

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