Virginia State Parks, organized by the Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR), will host its annual “Opt Outside” event over the 2025 Thanksgiving weekend. The campaign runs from Nov. 28 through Dec. 1, 2025, with a core mission of prioritizing well-being over shopping queues and screen time. This initiative encourages the public to choose nature and physical health rather than engaging in the commercial bustle of Black Friday.
For private campground and RV park owners, the period between late autumn and early winter often represents a challenging shoulder season where occupancy rates can dip. However, structured programming can significantly enhance the guest value proposition during these slower periods. Implementing organized activities allows operators to transform a standard campsite booking into an experiential package that attracts travelers specifically seeking wellness experiences.
By curating low-cost, high-engagement activities similar to the state’s itinerary, private parks can drive revenue and compete with retail-focused holidays. This approach not only incentivizes longer stays but also appeals to a demographic that values physical health and outdoor memories over traditional consumption.
The state’s campaign spans all Virginia State Park locations and features a mix of self-guided and ranger-led activities. This statewide mandate ensures accessibility regardless of where a resident lives, offering opportunities for observing wildlife amidst fallen leaves and reducing stress through outdoor recreation.
Specific events scheduled for Friday, Nov. 28, include a guided hike at False Cape State Park, while Douthat State Park is also offering a guided hike.
The itinerary features diverse options across other locations, including “Critter Chow” at Sky Meadows and a Guided Stress Relief Program or History Hike at Mason Neck State Park. Holiday Lake offers a mix of activities such as a Wildlife Hike, a Welcome Campfire, or Stargazing. Additionally, James River State Park will host “Tye at Twilight,” utilizing the Tye River Overlook, while Fairy Stone and Bear Creek Lake are set to offer guided hikes. Sweet Run will host Animal Tracking.
Analyzing this diverse activity list reveals a critical strategy for guest inclusivity, particularly for multi-generational families frequenting RV parks and glamping resorts. A schedule that accounts for varying physical abilities ensures that there is an engaging option for every family member, from young children to seniors.
Combining active events, such as the hikes at Fairy Stone, with passive engagement like the Animal Tracking at Sweet Run or Stargazing at Holiday Lake, allows operators to cater to different energy levels. This balance is a best practice for private business owners looking to increase guest satisfaction and encourage repeat visitation by ensuring no guest feels excluded from the programming.
As part of the celebration, individuals with Virginia State Park license plates will receive free parking specifically on Friday, Nov. 28, 2025.
Private operators can mirror the license plate perk by creating exclusive rewards for their own loyal customer base. Offering benefits such as parking discounts, early check-ins, or branded merchandise to repeat guests fosters a sense of belonging. These tactics turn current guests into brand ambassadors who amplify the property’s visibility within their own networks.
While the specific roster of events like Stargazing or Critter Chow is park-specific, the initiative serves as a statewide effort ensuring broad access to the outdoors. The overarching strategy offers a blueprint for the wider outdoor hospitality industry to effectively compete with mainstream retail holidays by prioritizing guest experience and mental health.