Fair Oaks Motors Blog

It's that time of the year already: Labor Day is fast approaching! How are you going to say farewell to summer? How about one of the many beautiful state parks in Virginia? From camping to hiking to off-roading, VA state parks prep all year for summer fun that peaks between Memorial Day and Labor Day. 

Interested in pristine beach camping with plenty of adventure? Does the thought of few running-water amenities not scare you off? False Cape may be your place. The campground is reachable only by foot, bicycle, or boat, so you'll have to leave your Ram at the door and get around by good ole man-power for your time there.

At almost 3,000 acres on the Cape Henry stretch of North Virginia Beach, First Landing is huge and full of possibilities. Day trips and overnight camping are both popular options, and there's even a handful of cabins available for short-term rental. Unlike False Cape, your Ram (or other boat-toting vehicle) is welcome here: there's a boat launch to give you access to the bay. 

Another rustic, no-frills camping experience. Nestled at the entrance to Mount Rogers and the Appalachian Trail, not only is Grayson Highlands in a beautiful location with plenty of scenic trails, there are wild ponies roaming freely in the park. Need we say any more?

While not a state park, Virginia's George Washington National Forest is massive, practically spanning the state with its numerous recreation and wildlife areas. It's famous among off-roaders for having some of the most extensive trails around, so look into it if your Jeep still has that new car smell by the end of the summer.

Remember that the choicest camping spots and outdoor experiences might book up quickly for an in-demand block of time like Labor Day Weekend. If you're planning on taking on rough camping terrain, make sure you visit your appropriate dealerships to get your vehicle tuned up and ready for the road. In 2017, U.S. dealerships spent over $114 billion on service and parts to keep your vehicle running smoothly on the roughest paths; take advantage of their expertise. Plan ahead of time, be safe, and have fun!