As we get ready to close out August, get in those last moments of outdoor summer fun. From paddling on the water to taking in Civil War history, these are the park activities you should join this weekend.
Free Admission for National Park Service’s Birthday
Wednesday, 7 a.m.
Celebrate the 105th birthday of the NPS with a trip to one of NoVA’s national parks. Parks that are waiving admission for the day include Great Falls, Manassas National Battlefield, and Prince William Forest. So, pack your lunch and pick a trail for a lovely day outdoors. Multiple locations
Paddle Ware Creek
Thursday, 10 a.m.-1 p.m.
Instead of exploring the park by foot, head to the water for the best views. Whether you are a canoer or kayaker, enjoy a peaceful paddle along Ware Creek as you catch a glimpse of the herons and osprey in the sky. Lake Anna State Park: 6800 Lawyers Rd., Spotsylvania; $5
159th Anniversary of Second Manassas
Friday-Sunday, times vary
To commemorate the Battle of Second Manassas, stop by the battlefield for three days of events and programming. Whether you are looking to tour the battle lines, hear about the twilight clash, or check out the demonstrations, you’ll be able to learn all about the battle right on the battlefield. Manassas National Battlefield Park: 6511 Sudley Rd., Manassas, free
Snakehead Fishing on Canoes
Saturday, 9-11:45 a.m.
Combine your love for fishing and canoeing at this Woodbridge park. Learn about the invasive species and the best techniques to catch them. Supplies can be provided, but park rangers ask that you bring your own equipment. Leesylvania State Park: 2001 Daniel K. Ludwig Dr., Woodbridge; $15
Nature Journaling
Saturday, 11 a.m.-noon
Connect with nature and Mother Earth through journaling. Whether you want to draw your surroundings or list out the different things you are thankful for, getting it down will reconnect you with the local surroundings. Mason Neck State Park: 7301 High Point Rd., Lorton; free
21st Georgia Infantry – Civil War Encampment
Sunday, 10 a.m.-2 p.m.
Head back to the 1860s to experience the day in the life of a confederate soldier. As you enter the encampment, take in the sights, sounds, and smells of the day-to-day tasks, from camp cooking to enlistment ceremonies. Sky Meadows State Park: 11012 Edmonds Ln., Delaplane; free
Night Hike and S’mores Campfire
Sunday, 7 p.m.
As summer transforms into fall, get in one last campfire for the season. After you take a walk through the forest, enjoy a night around the fire making gooey s’mores. Lake Fairfax Park: 1400 Lake Fairfax Dr., Reston; $12
Feature image, © Flamingo Images/stock.adobe.com
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