The Great American Backyard Campout is June 23, and all 35 Virginia State Parks are offering campouts or camping demonstrations, and a variety of programs promoting fun in the outdoors.

Because it may be intimidating to take the first step to try camping and learn about the necessary gear, state parks are offering special programming for the Great American Backyard Campout. A special group camping experience for novice or first-time campers will be offered in these state parks: Caledon, in King George County; James River, in Buckingham County; Leesylvania, in Prince William County; New River Trail, in Pulaski County; Pocahontas, in Chesterfield County; Sky Meadows, in Fauquier County; and Smith Mountain Lake, in Bedford County. The offerings vary by park, and all require advance registration.