Seven state parks across Virginia are set for significant renovations beginning this fall, impacting cabins, campgrounds, and certain facilities. Officials at Virginia State Parks announced the scheduled upgrades, emphasizing that the work aims to extend the life and quality of park amenities.
Visitors planning trips to these parks are advised to check each park’s website for the most up-to-date closure schedules, as timelines may shift based on project demands and seasonal factors.
Virginia State Parks Director Melissa Baker highlighted the importance of these renovations for maintaining and improving visitor experiences. “These renovations are key to the longevity of our parks,” she stated. Baker also encouraged guests to anticipate the refreshed facilities once work is complete.
“We look forward to sharing the upgraded cabins and campgrounds when the projects are completed,” Baker added.
First Landing State Park, known for its popular beachfront cabins, will close all cabins from November 1, with a reopening scheduled for October 2026. Westmoreland State Park, another popular destination along the Potomac River, will also see extensive cabin closures, aligning with First Landing’s timeline for a 2026 reopening.
Claytor Lake State Park’s renovations will focus on Campgrounds B and C, which will be closed starting on November 1 through the 2025 season. At Fairy Stone State Park, the main campground will be closed from December until February 28, 2026. Although equestrian campers will retain access to the equestrian campground, facilities such as the main bathhouse and dump station will be unavailable.
Grayson Highlands State Park will temporarily close its Hickory Ridge Campground, including all campsites, yurts, and bunkhouses, from November through April 2026. However, the Chestnut Hollow Equestrian Campground will stay open during the 2025 season.
Bear Creek Lake State Park’s renovations will also affect Black Oak and Chestnut campgrounds, which have closed starting October until May 2026. However, the Acorn Camping Loop, designated for smaller tents and campers under 20 feet, will remain open until December 1.
At Douthat State Park, vehicular access to the Douthat Lodge area has been restricted until further notice, while pedestrian access remains available.
Featured image by Virginia State Parks via dcr.virginia.gov/state-parks
