These upgrades aim to improve facilities and enhance the guest experience, though park officials urge visitors to check specific park web pages for the most up-to-date information on closures and project timelines.
“These renovations are key to the longevity of our parks,” said Virginia State Parks Director Melissa Baker. “It takes time to upgrade the facilities and make each location more enjoyable for all guests. We look forward to sharing the upgraded cabins and campgrounds when the projects are completed.”
Closures at Westmoreland State Park
Westmoreland State Park, located closest to the Potomac Local region, will be significantly affected. Starting November 1, 2024, all cabins and camping cabins will be closed for renovations, with the closures expected to last through October 2026. The park itself will remain open, and day-use activities will continue as usual, but overnight stays in cabins will be unavailable during the renovation period.
Full List of Affected Parks and Dates
- First Landing State Park: All cabins closed from Nov. 1, 2024, through October 2026.
- Westmoreland State Park: All cabins and camping cabins closed from Nov. 1, 2024, through October 2026.
- Claytor Lake State Park: Campgrounds B and C closed from Nov. 1, 2024, through the 2025 season.
- Fairy Stone State Park: The main campground closed from Dec. 2024 through Feb. 28, 2026. Equestrian campground unaffected, but amenities limited.
- Grayson Highlands State Park: Hickory Ridge Campground, including campsites, yurts, and bunkhouse, closed from Nov. 2024 through April 2026. Chestnut Hollow Equestrian Campground remains open for the 2025 season.
- Bear Creek Lake State Park: Black Oak and Chestnut Campgrounds closed from Oct. 7, 2024, through May 2026. Acorn Camping Loop remains open through Dec. 1, 2024, for tents and small campers under 20 feet.
- Douthat State Park: Douthat Lodge area closed to vehicles until further notice; pedestrian access via Guest Lodge Trail remains.
Despite these closures, daily park operations will continue without interruption, allowing visitors to enjoy trails, picnic areas, and other park features.
For more details and to stay informed about renovation updates, visit the Virginia State Parks website or the individual park pages.
Recent Stories
This week on Potomac Local News, we’re bringing you the stories your neighbors are reading most—from school safety to major development plans in Stafford. Plus, we’re tracking the return of the Manassas Bee Festival, a critical REAL ID deadline, and local efforts to keep our parks and neighborhoods clean. Don’t forget to check out our latest podcast episodes and consider becoming a member to support original local journalism.
Authorities in Prince William and Stafford counties responded to a range of serious incidents in recent days, including the armed robbery of a 14-year-old in a Woodbridge shopping center, multiple business burglaries, and domestic assaults involving weapons. In Stafford, deputies investigated a string of public intoxication cases, a DUI involving a teenager, and multiple thefts from an ABC store—all reported on the same day. Several suspects were arrested on outstanding warrants, and one individual turned himself in while intoxicated, claiming it made the process easier.
The Spotsylvania County Sheriff’s Office is investigating an incident that occurred this morning at Lee Hill Elementary School after a handgun discharged inside a 3rd-grade classroom.
The Dumfries Town Council approved its 2025 events calendar during its April 1 meeting, finalizing several changes to the town’s lineup of annual events.
The New Dominion Choraliers
Have a Show-Stopping Concert in Store!
Join us on Saturday, May 3 or Sunday, May 4 as the New Dominion Choraliers put on a concert with fun and fabulous songs straight from your favorite Broadway shows and Big Screen musicals. Selections from Pixar, Disney, and Rodgers and Hammerstein offer familiar tunes across the generations, as well as selections from Wicked, Les Miserables, The Greatest Showman, and more!
Properly using a car seat can reduce the risk of injury or death in a car crash by a significant amount, with studies showing reductions of 71% for infants and 54% for toddlers.
Check your child safety seat with the Montgomery County Safe Kids Coalition on Thursday March 20, 2025 from 10am-12:30pm. No appointment necessary.
Fitzgerald GMC Rockville
Your Weight Matters National Convention
Hosted by the Obesity Action Coalition (OAC) since 2012, this highly-anticipated gathering is the nation’s leading gathering focused on empowering individuals with science-based education, support and practical tools for managing weight and improving health.
This unique Convention truly has something
Cascade Landing Community Grand Opening
You’re invited to celebrate the Official Grand Opening of our newest community Cascade Landing in Dumfries, VA. Join us April 12th from 11 AM – 6 PM and fall for your new townhome!
Enjoy our grand opening celebration, complete with
