Shenandoah River State Park Invites Public Input and Launches Expanded Programming for All Ages

Raymond R. “Andy” Guest Jr. Shenandoah River State Park is kicking off 2026 with a packed schedule of new programs, field trips, and public outreach—beginning with a key public input session on the park’s long-term master plan.

Chief Ranger for Visitor Experience Megan Goin joined Royal Examiner’s Mike McCool in the studio this week to preview the season ahead, including everything from toddler programming to Bark Ranger hikes for dogs and their humans.

Public Input Meeting on Park’s Future: Jan. 20

The first big event on the calendar is the park’s public master plan meeting, scheduled for Tuesday, January 20, from 6 to 8 p.m. at Samuels Public Library in the White Meeting Room.

“Every state park has a master plan,” Goin explained. “It covers staffing, development, project priorities, and how we apply for funding. It’s important for visitors to share what they want to see in their park.”

Anyone can attend and offer comments—on anything from infrastructure needs to ideas for future programming. “If you’ve ever said, ‘I wish the park would do this,’ now’s the time to come say it out loud,” Goin added.

Public comments will be recorded and used to shape the park’s next 10-year roadmap.

Field Trip Reservations Now Open for Spring

Teachers and home educators can now book spring 2026 field trips, with programs running through May 15. Sessions are $3 per student per program, and free for Title I schools.

Topics include zoology, botany, geology, local history, and hands-on animal encounters. Recent programs have let students meet live snakes, frogs, and turtles.

“It’s a great way to make science real for kids,” Goin said. “And we’re happy to customize for different age groups or learning goals.”

Winter Programs for the Whole Family

The park isn’t slowing down for the winter months. Upcoming highlights include:

• Winter Wonderland Hike – Learn how plants and animals survive the cold. (This Saturday at the park)
• Bark Ranger Hike – Dogs and their owners can explore the park and learn about pet stewardship. Well-behaved pups earn a Bark Ranger tag and certificate.

“These are fun, educational, and a great excuse to get outside,” said Goin.

New Series with Samuels Library: Tales and Trails

In 2026, the park is partnering with Samuels Public Library to launch a new “Tales and Trails” series featuring monthly nature-themed story and activity programs for children ages 5 to 10. Programs alternate between the park and the library and are free to attend (with waived parking fees for registered participants).

January’s program celebrates Squirrel Appreciation Day, followed by groundhog facts in February and bats in April. Registration is through the library website.

Tiny Trailblazers: A New Program for Toddlers

Parents of toddlers now have a program just for them: Tiny Trailblazers, a monthly series for ages 2 to 5. The first session launches January 24 and will also highlight squirrels.

“Parents have asked us for something designed for the littlest explorers,” Goin said. “Now we have something just for them.”

Tiny Trailblazer events are free, though the standard $10 park entry fee applies.

More to Come All Year Long

Shenandoah River State Park also offers camping (including cabins and glamping), Discovery Center programs, special accessibility features (like an all-terrain wheelchair), and a full slate of seasonal events.

“People ask what we do in the winter, but it’s a busy time,” said Goin. “We’re building for the year ahead, and we’re excited about all we’re offering in 2026.”

For full details, event flyers, or to book a field trip, visit the park’s website.