What's New?

Trail Ambassadors program

New River Trail State Park and the Friends group are excited to announce a new feature of your visit to the trail: Trail Ambassadors.  If you see a walker, biker or horseback rider who is wearing a bright green vest, you should feel free to stop and discuss any questions or concerns that you may have.  In addition, ambassadors are equipped with maps and information, and basic first aid (bandaids!).  Your experience should be enhanced by engaging with an ambassador!  These volunteers are not Rangers, but can help you reach the proper authority or emergency personnel if necessary.  Say hi to an Ambassador :)

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Don't miss the next Miner's Perspective presentation of the season!  This historically informative event will be held on July 19, 2025, 11:00am - 12:30 at the Austinville trailhead.  Another presentation is scheduled for 9/13.

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2025 Junior Ranger Camp

2024 was the inaugural year of the Junior Ranger Camp at NRTSP! Participants learned about  birding, snorkeling in the river, exploring underground in a cave, insects, the historic village, and  primitive skills such as  campfire cooking...all in one week! 

Register by emailing Erin.Pitts@dcr.virginia.gov, or you may call the office at 276-699-6778 to register over the phone.  Participation is limited.  More details here: 

https://www.dcr.virginia.gov/state-parks/event?id=2025-02-04-15-43-08-985107-hzc

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Volunteers continue to work to help clean up after Hurricane Helene damaged much of Southwest Virginia and the surrounding region. If you are interested in volunteering, please reach out to Erin.Pitts@dcr.virginia.gov or Katie.Myers@dcr.virginia.gov.  Some efforts are also being coordinated with The New River Conservancy!

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The Ivanhoe Birding Trail was dedicated on April 4, 2025!  Located on a piece of land near the Ivanhoe River Trestle, the New River Trail State Park and Friends has enhanced the designated area for the conservation and protection of various species of birds indigenous to Southwest Virginia. The area includes a kiosk with picnic table, trails and benches for observation.

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