Over 40 million Americans go camping every year. The National Wildlife Federation aims to increase that number by promoting the Great American Campout each year on the fourth weekend in June.

All thirty-seven Virginia State Parks will participate in the Great American Campout the weekend of June 23.

All parks will offer programming during the day on June 23 to teach the skills related to camping basics. Programs feature campfire cooking, fire starting, camping basics, gear suggestions and the camaraderie of a campfire program. Our parks with camping encourage guests to stay the night by making a reservation in one of our campgrounds but feel free to just come for the day to attend the programs. A complete list of the programming is available here.

Eight parks will offer special, overnight camping programs designed to provide unique experiences as well as help and guidance to those who want to find out what camping is all about. Check out the details for more information and reservation requirements. All campouts begin Saturday except High Bridge which starts Friday evening.