While they often don't get the same level of recognition as national parks, state parks can be just as enjoyable. Some of my family's favorite memories are in the southeast's unassuming yet remarkable state parks. We've paddle-boarded down winding rivers, fished in sparkling lakes, hiked in lush green forests, and built sand castles on lakeside beaches. You, too, can enjoy extraordinary adventures in state parks! And as the cherry on top, there's no need to spend a fortune. We've rounded up five phenomenal Virginia state parks with entry fees of $5. You won't believe the scenery and attractions you can experience without breaking the budget.

1. High Bridge Trail State Park, Rice

High Bridge Trail State Park's entry fee is $5 per vehicle. The 1,291-acre park is a fantastic place for hiking, biking, and riding horses. Visitors can enjoy the 32.2-mile High Bridge Trail, which is generally considered easy, wide, and paved. The trail's crown jewel is the High Bridge, a massive 2,400-foot-long bridge that soars 125 feet into the sky. The views from the bridge are incredible! High Bridge has an amazing history; it was built in the 1850s on concrete piers to allow trains to cross the Appomattox River and played a significant role in the Civil War. Norfolk Southern Railway Co. donated the unused railway in 2006 to develop the state park.

2. James River State Park, Gladstone

James River State Park is the perfect place for an adventure on a budget, costing $5 per vehicle. Visitors can enjoy 22 miles of multi-use trails, fish, boat, and picnic. It's a popular destination for smallmouth bass fishing. The park has little light pollution, making it ideal for stargazing, and was designated an International Dark Sky Park in 2019. In October 2024, park visitors could see the Northern Lights along with dozens of stars.

3. Belle Isle State Park, Lancaster

Belle Isle State Park in Lancaster is gorgeous and one of Virginia's best-kept secrets . It features seven miles of the Rappahannock River shoreline, forests, farmland, and tidal wetlands. Visitors can hike and bike on the park's trails; the Belle Isle Park Trail is a 5.5-mile loop trail with beautiful scenery. It's also a great place to fish, canoe, kayak, and windsail. Birders often spot songbirds, bald eagles, blue herons, and osprey. It costs $5 to enter the park with a passenger vehicle.

4. Staunton River State Park, Scottsburg

Staunton River State Park is 2,400 acres and the perfect destination for the outdoor enthusiast on a budget. Its entry fee is $5 per car, and it offers 17 miles of hiking and biking trails, a nine-hole disc golf course, picnic shelters, three playgrounds, tennis courts, and volleyball courts. The park is home to Virginia's biggest lake, Buggs Island Lake, a fantastic place to fish, boat, canoe, kayak, and more. It's also an International Dark Sky Park and excellent for viewing stars.

5. York River State Park, Williamsburg

York River State Park , in eastern Virginia, features an estuarine environment where fresh and saltwater mix. It's only $5 per vehicle to enter the park, and there's plenty to do. It has fresh and saltwater fishing sites, playgrounds, picnic shelters, and 40 miles of multi-use trails. The park also has fossil beds, where visitors can search for treasures from the area's past. I think young adventurers would absolutely love looking for fossils here.

What do you think of our list of five fantastic Virginia state parks with entry fees of $5? I can't think of any better bang for your buck with opportunities to stargaze, hike, fish, kayak, dig for fossils, and more. Amazingly, there are even more Virginia state parks with entry fees of $5. Check out Wilderness Road State Park , Seven Bends State Park , Powhatan State Park, and Caledon State Park.

Before you head out on your next adventure, peruse our Ultimate Road Trip Packing List . From a portable charger to a first aid kit and sunglasses, you'll have everything you need for an amazing adventure.