Virginia State Parks suggest making “Black Friday” green

Skip Black Friday crowds this year and have a Green Friday in Virginia State Parks, suggests the Viirginia Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR).

According to a news release, Virginia continues to partner with other state parks across the country, along with outdoor retailer REI Co-op, to participate in #OptOutside, encouraging people to skip shopping and enjoy the outdoor experience the day after Thanksgiving.

Virginia State Parks Director Craig Seaver was quoted as saying in a news release, “The weather will be great, state parks will look beautiful, and it will be a wonderful time for people to focus on what’s really important – family, health and making memories that last a lifetime.”

Visitors over the Thanksgiving weekend are encouraged to participate in the Virginia State Parks #OptOutside photo contest.

Photographers can win Virginia State Parks overnight accommodations gift certificates of $50, $100, $250 and $500. Details and the contest link can be found here: http://bit.ly/VSPoptoutside2017

The Virginia State Parks partnership with REI includes honoring a store receipt for a free park entrance. REI members also receive additional benefits.

After the holiday weekend, beginning Monday, Nov. 27 through Dec. 20, Virginia State Park gift certificates will be available at a 25 percent discount. Call 800-933-7275 to buy one.

For more information about Virginia State Park activities and amenities or to make a reservation for one of the more than 1,600 campsites or 300 climate-controlled cabins, call the Virginia State Parks Customer Service Center at 800-933-7275 or visit http://www.virginiastateparks.gov.