Virginia State Parks has been recognized as a 2026 Top Virginia Employer for Interns by the State Council of Higher Education for Virginia!

Botetourt County supervisors voted Tuesday to move forward with a hazard analysis study of the Orchard Lake Dam, but the decision has sparked renewed debate about government transparency and community involvement.

The Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation announced earlier this month the opening of a new grant round for the Virginia Dam Safety, Flood Prevention and Protection Assistance Fund.

Virginia’s Department of Conservation and Recreation is inviting you to take a hike on New Year’s Day as part of the nationwide First Day Hike initiative!

The Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation and Virginia State Parks announced the launch of the Ranger Conservation Corps, a new internship program designed to create career pathways in outdoor recreation and conservation.

The Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation announced Thursday the opening of the sixth round of the Community Flood Preparedness Fund.

The Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation and Federal Highway Administration have awarded grants to 12 trail projects through the Recreational Trails Program.

Following the devastation of Hurricane Helene in fall 2024, Claytor Lake is ready for the summer season thanks to extensive cleanup efforts.

After months of cleanup following Hurricane Helene, Claytor Lake is slated to resume normal operations, the Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation has announced.

On Tuesday, the Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation announced that reservations must be made online through the State Parks reservation system this year for hunting opportunities.

On Monday, the Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation announced that the Poor Mountain Natural Area Preserve has expanded over more than 78 acres.

Starting Friday, you can again enjoy the lakefront beaches at both Smith Mountain Lake and Claytor Lake. However, if overcrowding occurs, these beaches will be closed. Those at either beach are advised to respect social distancing and not participate in team sports. Claytor LakeBoth the beach and snack bar open Friday. Here’s a look a the lake’s upcoming beach and snack bar schedule:June 12-14 (Fri-Sun) Guarded beach and snack bar availableJune 15-17 (Mon-Wed) Swim at your own risk and no snack barJune 18-21 (Thur-Sun) Guarded beach and snack bar availableJune 22-24 (Mon-Wed) Swim at your own risk and no snack barJune 25-28 (Thur-Sun) Guarded beach and snack bar available

Richmond, Va. – It's almost the weekend and maybe you're looking for something safe to do with the family. Social distancing doesn't mean you have to be stuck inside 24/7. In a Skype interview, the Clyde Cristman, director of Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation, says they are still open for business, but that could change in the future. Right now, all trails, kayak launches, cabins, and campsites are open to the public, but visitors’ centers and picnic shelters are closed. Cristman did advise to adhere to the 10 person limit but encouraged Virginians to get outside.