Nature

Parks & Gardens

Nature
Hiking
Parks & Gardens

Grab the Earmuffs for This Hike in Virginia That’s 100% Worth Braving the Cold

The River Loop Trail is a 4.6-mile loop that takes hikers past the Patowmack Canal ruins, Difficult Run stream, and three Great Falls overlooks. It's considered moderately difficult with steep inclines and rocky terrain. Great Falls Park is an incredible 800-acre park, perfect for birding, biking, hiking, fishing, and more.

by Kelly Carroll
on Dec 22
Sunset over the River Trail Loop in Virginia
Nature

Skip the Crowds: Explore Virginia’s 5 Quietest Trails and Parks This Month

by Kelly Carroll
on Dec 2
Overhead view of an undeveloped Virginia beach and the Atlantic Ocean.
Nature

Visit Big Gem Park in Virginia for an Unforgettable Adventure

by Beth Copenhaver
on Oct 17
A serene forest scene with a calm lake reflecting trees, surrounded by lush greenery and a sandy shore.
Nature

The Stunning Top-Secret Natural Spring in Virginia That Almost No One Has Heard Of

by Beth Copenhaver
on Sep 6
A serene creek flows through a lush green forest, with fallen trees and smooth stones along the water's edge.
Nature

The Hidden Nature Park in Virginia With Its Very Own Swimming Beach, Hiking Trails, and So Much More

by Beth Copenhaver
on May 8
View of Blue Ridge Mountains as seen through an overlook at Mint Valley Springs Park in Crozet.

Latest Parks & Gardens

Nature
Parks & Gardens

10 Incredible Hidden Gems In Virginia You’ll Want To Discover This Year

by Beth Copenhaver
on Dec 29
A rustic log cabin surrounded by green hills and trees, with a wooden fence in the foreground. Clear blue sky above.
Nature
Parks & Gardens

Enjoy An Easy Walk At This Underrated Local Park In Virginia

by Beth Copenhaver
on Nov 28
A wooden boardwalk curves along a serene lake, surrounded by lush green trees and a calm sky.
Nature
Parks & Gardens

The Enchanting Park In Virginia Is One Of The Best Places To Enjoy Autumn

by Beth Copenhaver
on Oct 31
A serene riverside scene with autumn foliage, a bench, and calm water reflecting the sky.
Nature
Parks & Gardens

Take A Stroll Through Virginia’s Past At This Historic Home And Gardens

by Beth Copenhaver
on Oct 13
Aerial view of a large white mansion surrounded by lush greenery and gardens under a blue sky with fluffy clouds.
Nature
Parks & Gardens

Explore A Little-Known Arboretum Just Outside Of Virginia Beach

by Beth Copenhaver
on Sep 21
Sign for Virginia Tech Tidewater Arboretum with lush greenery and trees in the background.
Nature
Parks & Gardens

Enjoy An Unexpectedly Magical Hike On This Little-Known Trail In Virginia

by Beth Copenhaver
on Sep 5
A wooden bridge surrounded by lush green trees and foliage, leading into a serene natural pathway.
Nature
Parks & Gardens

The Most Colorful And Inclusive Playground In Virginia Is Incredible

Clemyjontri Park in McLean, Virginia, is an inclusive playground designed for children of all abilities.

by Beth Copenhaver
on Aug 15
Colorful playground with various play structures, including a train and a yellow truck, surrounded by green trees.
Nature
Parks & Gardens

The Virginia Park Worth Driving Across The State To Explore

by Beth Copenhaver
on Aug 10
A serene river flows through lush green forests and misty mountains under a cloudy sky.
Nature
Parks & Gardens

With Nature Trails, A Splash Pad, And Gorgeous Views, This Virginia Park Is the Ultimate Family Destination

Forest Hills Park in Charlottesville, Virginia, offers a variety of attractions for all ages, including a splash pad, playground, shaded trails, and scenic views.

by Beth Copenhaver
on Aug 1
A sunny park with a splash pad, colorful play structures, and children playing among trees and greenery.
Nature
Parks & Gardens

Most People Don’t Even Know This Little-Known Destination In Virginia Even Exists

Savage Neck Dunes Natural Area Preserve in Virginia offers picturesque sand dunes, abundant wildlife, and a serene natural environment.

by Beth Copenhaver
on Jun 21
A serene beach scene with calm waters, driftwood, and a distant house on a sandy shore under a blue sky.
Nature
Parks & Gardens

With A Carousel And Cafe, This Unique Park In Virginia Is Perfect For A Family Day Trip

Frying Pan Farm Park in Herndon offers a nostalgic family day trip with a historic carousel, farm animals, and various activities.

by Rachel Pfutzenreuter
on Jul 5
A carousel with colorful horses, surrounded by a playground and green grass on a sunny day.
Nature
Parks & Gardens

Perhaps The State’s Best Hidden Treasure, Hardly Anyone Knows This Massive Ginkgo Grove In Virginia Exists

Blandy Experimental Farm in Virginia features a stunning Ginkgo grove and is a must-visit for plant enthusiasts.

by Beth Copenhaver
on Jun 19
A serene landscape featuring tall trees with yellow leaves, set in a grassy area under a clear sky.
Nature
Parks & Gardens

Buffalo Mountain Natural Area Preserve In Floyd, Virginia Is So Little-Known, You Just Might Have It All To Yourself

Buffalo Mountain Natural Area Preserve in Virginia is a hidden gem known for its rare plants, animals, and breathtaking views.

by Beth Copenhaver
on May 24
A sunlit forest path winding through tall trees and green underbrush on a clear day.
Nature
Parks & Gardens

Complete With Water Slides And A Lazy River, Splash Valley In Virginia Is A Hidden Gem

Splash Valley in Virginia is a hidden gem water park featuring slides, a lazy river, and family-friendly amenities.

by Beth Copenhaver
on May 15
A colorful water slide at a busy water park, with children playing in the pool and enjoying the attractions.
Nature
Parks & Gardens

This Virginia Hiking Trail Leads To Some Incredible Pieces Of History

Newport News Park in Virginia offers a unique blend of historical significance and recreational activities, making it a must-visit destination.

by Beth Copenhaver
on May 15
A wooden pier extends into a calm lake, surrounded by trees with autumn foliage under a clear blue sky.
Nature
Parks & Gardens

At Over 300 Years Old, Some Of The Oldest Trees In Virginia Are Found On The Virginia Tech Campus

Stadium Woods at Virginia Tech is home to over 250 ancient trees, some over 300 years old, serving as a natural oasis and ecological landmark.

by Beth Copenhaver
on Apr 19
A misty forest scene with tall trees and a soft, foggy atmosphere, creating a serene and tranquil environment.
Nature
Parks & Gardens

Few People Know About This Virginia Field Covered In Wildflowers

Martha Jefferson Hospital in Charlottesville, Virginia, features a beautiful wildflower meadow that aims to inspire healing and lift patients' spirits.

by Beth Copenhaver
on Apr 2
A modern building surrounded by a vibrant field of yellow and black flowers under a blue sky with fluffy clouds.
Nature
Parks & Gardens

Here’s The Story Behind The Abandoned President Statues In Virginia

Discover the eerie field of 42 abandoned presidential statues in Williamsburg, Virginia, originally part of Presidents Park.

by Beth Copenhaver
on Jun 18
A row of large, weathered stone busts of various historical figures in a grassy field under a cloudy sky.
Nature
Parks & Gardens

The Most Beautiful Highway In America Is Right Here In Virginia

The Blue Ridge Parkway in Virginia is renowned for its breathtaking mountain scenery and is considered America's most beautiful highway.

by Beth Copenhaver
on Dec 15
A winding road curves through lush green hills under a partly cloudy sky.
Nature
Parks & Gardens

The Garden Christmas Light Displays At Norfolk Botanical Garden In Virginia Is Pure Holiday Magic

Discover the best Christmas light displays in Virginia, each offering unique and enchanting experiences.

by Beth Copenhaver
on Oct 25
A pathway illuminated by colorful holiday lights, with trees adorned in blue and white lights, creating a festive atmosphere.
Nature
Parks & Gardens

The Christmas Town In Virginia That Has One Million Christmas Lights On Main Street

Christmas Town at Busch Gardens in Williamsburg, Virginia, features the largest Christmas lights display in North America with ten million lights and festive attractions.

by Beth Copenhaver
on Oct 19
A festive street scene decorated with Christmas wreaths and lights, bustling with people under falling snow.
Nature
Parks & Gardens

There’s A Little Slice Of Heaven Right Here In Virginia And You’ll Want To Visit

Norfolk Botanical Garden in Virginia offers a blend of manicured gardens and natural woods, making it a must-visit destination in any season.

by Beth Copenhaver
on Oct 3
A scenic pathway lined with vibrant pink flowering trees under a cloudy sky. Lush green grass surrounds the path.
Nature
Parks & Gardens

The Amazing Pirate Ship Playground In Virginia That Few People Know About

Rappahannock County Park in Northern Virginia features a unique pirate ship-themed playground perfect for kids and families.

by Beth Copenhaver
on Sep 26
A wooden playground structure resembling a ship, with a slide, ladder, and tree canopy in a green park setting.
Nature
Parks & Gardens

Few People Know There’s A Mystical Area Where Lava Once Flowed In Virginia

Prince William Forest Park in Virginia offers a unique landscape formed by ancient lava flow, making it a fascinating destination for all ages.

by Beth Copenhaver
on Jun 22
A serene waterfall cascading over rocks into a calm pool, surrounded by lush greenery and sunlight.
Nature
Parks & Gardens

This Family-Friendly Park In Virginia Has A Playground, Carousel, Trolley, And More

Clemyjontri Park in McLean, Virginia, is a unique, accessible playground and amusement park for children of all abilities.

by Raymond Goldfield
on Jun 14
Sign for Clemyjontri Park in McLean, Virginia, featuring a colorful horse illustration and the slogan "where every child can play."
Nature
Parks & Gardens

You Can See All 4 Of Virginia’s Highest Mountains At This One Secluded Recreation Area

Mount Rogers Recreation Area in Virginia offers hiking, camping, and scenic views, featuring the state's four tallest peaks.

by Beth Copenhaver
on Jun 3
A scenic view of rolling green hills under a blue sky with scattered clouds, framed by a wooden fence.
Nature
Parks & Gardens

This Family-Friendly Park In Virginia Has A Playground, A Carousel, Hiking Trails, And More

Lake Accotink Park in Virginia offers a variety of family-friendly activities and natural beauty, making it an ideal destination for all ages.

by Beth Copenhaver
on May 27
A wooden bridge arches over a rocky path, surrounded by lush green trees and foliage.
Nature
Parks & Gardens

Virginia’s Most Easily Accessible Waterfall Is Hiding In Plain Sight At The Maymont Japanese Garden

Discover the man-made waterfall at Maymont Japanese Garden in Richmond, VA, offering a fairytale-like setting and easy access.

by Beth Copenhaver
on Mar 19
A scenic waterfall surrounded by lush greenery and people enjoying the natural beauty.
Nature
Parks & Gardens

Measuring Over 7,000 Acres, Newport News Park Is One Of Virginia’s Most Beautiful Natural Sanctuaries

Newport News Park in Virginia offers a vast array of recreational activities and stunning natural scenery, making it a must-visit destination.

by Beth Copenhaver
on Dec 11
A wooden boardwalk extends along a calm lake, surrounded by greenery under a clear blue sky.
Nature
Parks & Gardens

Explore Park In Virginia Is So Well-Hidden, It Feels Like One Of The State’s Best Kept Secrets

Explore Park near Roanoke, Virginia, offers a variety of family-friendly outdoor activities in the Blue Ridge Mountains.

by Cristy Carr
on Nov 4
A rustic log cabin with a stone chimney, surrounded by trees and greenery in a serene outdoor setting.
Nature
Parks & Gardens

Home To Some Of The Biggest Trees In Virginia, The Algonkian Regional Park Is A Must-Visit

Algonkian Regional Park in Virginia is a hidden gem known for its massive trees and peaceful natural landscape.

by Beth Copenhaver
on Oct 29
A serene park scene with lush green trees lining a path near a calm river under a bright sky.
Nature
Parks & Gardens

There’s A Dinosaur-Themed Park In Virginia Called Dinosaur Land

Dinosaur Land in White Post, Virginia, is a quirky, family-friendly park featuring over 50 life-like dinosaur statues.

by Beth Copenhaver
on Jul 21
A child stands next to a large sign that reads "Dinosaur Land," surrounded by greenery and dinosaur sculptures.
Nature
Parks & Gardens

Pack A Picnic And Enjoy Harbor Views From Plum Point Park In Norfolk, Virginia

Plum Point Park in Norfolk, Virginia, offers beautiful water views and is perfect for a picnic with delicious sandwiches from nearby Pendulum Fine Meats.

by Beth Copenhaver
on Jun 11
A large military ship docked near a waterfront, with boats and cranes in the background under a partly cloudy sky.
Nature
Parks & Gardens

Virginia Has Been Named The East Coast’s Best Stargazing State And These Parks Will Show You Why

Virginia offers some of the best stargazing spots on the East Coast, with several designated International Dark Sky Parks.

by Beth Copenhaver
on Jun 10
A person stands on a road at night, pointing a flashlight at a starry sky filled with the Milky Way.
Nature
Parks & Gardens

Most People Don’t Know There’s a Kayak Park Hiding In Virginia

Shenandoah River Outfitters in Luray, Virginia offers kayaking, canoeing, tubing, and rafting adventures in a beautiful river setting.

by Beth Copenhaver
on Jun 9
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Nature
Parks & Gardens

8 Amazing Playgrounds In Virginia That Will Make You Feel Like A Kid Again

Discover eight unique playgrounds in Virginia that offer fun and engaging outdoor activities for kids and families.

by Anna Strock
on May 5
alt
Nature
Parks & Gardens

Home To 50 Acres Of Beautiful Virginia Blooms, Visit Lewis Ginter Botanical Gardens This Spring

Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden in Richmond, Virginia, is a stunning springtime destination with numerous themed gardens and a unique conservatory.

by Beth Copenhaver
on Apr 1
A serene pathway lined with blooming cherry blossom trees, creating a beautiful floral archway.
Nature
Parks & Gardens

With 11 Lanes, Virginia’s Largest Snowtubing Park Offers Plenty Of Space For Everyone

Wintergreen Resort in Virginia offers the state's largest snow tubing park, The Plunge, with 11 lanes for an exhilarating winter experience.

by Beth Copenhaver
on Jan 13
People tubing down a snowy slope, with multiple lanes and tracks visible in the winter landscape.
Nature
Parks & Gardens

Complete With Bird Watching, Nature Trails, And Ample Water Views, Three Lakes Park Is A Hidden Virginia Treasure

by Beth Copenhaver
on Jan 9
A gravel path lined with trees, leading into a serene, green forest. Sunlight filters through the leaves.
Nature
Parks & Gardens

Walk Through Thousands Of Holiday Lights At Dominion GardenFest Of Lights In Virginia

Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden's Dominion GardenFest of Lights is a must-see holiday event in Virginia featuring millions of twinkling lights and festive displays.

by Beth Copenhaver
on Nov 3
A vibrant nighttime scene with colorful lights illuminating trees and pathways in a festive display.