Virginia State Parks are many things to many people…
For some we are a tonic for the mind, body and spirit. For others we are a premier destination for outdoor recreation. The third thing may surprise you. Virginia State Parks are an economic engine that creates twelve times the economic impact over what Virginia taxpayers contribute to its operations.
Beautiful Kiptopeke State Park on the Chesapeake Bay of Virginia
I don't know about you but a twelve times return on an investment seems like a great deal for our taxpayers AND that's on top of all the great things are parks are.
Governor McAuliffe announced the new record attendance this year in a press release. Click here for the release.
2014 came in with a total of 8.97 million visitors, an increase of 1.4% over 2013 which was also a record year. This visitation equates to economic impact of $208,121,241. Economic impact represents the amount of money contributed to the local economy from state park visitors.
Visitors enjoy the scenic view at the Tye River Overlook, James River State Park
We actually prefer that our visitors think about our natural resources and outdoor recreation opportunities, but once a year we want everyone to know about the other contribution we make to the Commonwealth of Virginia. It is also always great to celebrate a record year.
Having fun at Pocahontas State Park
Thank you for making 2014 a grand success and we hope you will be back in 2015!