Virginia Outdoor Adventures: Hiking, Camping, Kayaking, Local Travel and more!

Virginia Outdoor Adventures Podcast
  • 4.9 (101)
  • Places & Travel
  • Updated Biweekly

From the Blue Ridge Mountains to the Chesapeake Bay, Virginia is a mecca for outdoor travel and adventure. Virginia Outdoor Adventures Podcast is your local guide to hiking, camping, kayaking, travel and so much more. Get the information and the inspiration to plan your own adventure, right here in Virginia. Lets Go!

  1. National and State Park Travel Stories from California, Alabama, and Virginia (Ep 88, Part 2)

    1d ago

    National and State Park Travel Stories from California, Alabama, and Virginia (Ep 88, Part 2)

    In this solo episode, I'm taking you along on another whirlwind journey that spans thousands of miles and some of the most memorable outdoor adventures I've had all year. From birding along Alabama's Gulf Coast and exploring Chincoteague's marshes to rock climbing in Shenandoah National Park, hiking brand new trails at the Breaks, and standing under giant Redwoods in California’s Muir Woods, there's a lot to unpack. Along the way, I'll share stories from the trail, tips to plan your own adventure, and a few behind-the-scenes moments from recent podcast episodes. Plus, I'm asking for your feedback as I consider a question that could shape the future of Virginia Outdoor Adventures. So grab your hiking boots, binoculars, or favorite road trip snack, and join me for a journey through state and national parks, coastal landscapes, mountain trails, and the adventures that continue to inspire this podcast. Let’s Go! *This is Part 2 of a two-part episode.   Follow VAOA Podcast: Instagram I Facebook I Newsletter Sign Up Support the Show! Buy Me A Coffee Shop the Virginia Outdoor Adventures Merch Store! VAOA Podcast is Sponsored by: Virginia Association for Parks Breaks Interstate Park Virginia State Parks Heart of Appalachia  Mentioned in this Episode: Support the Show! Buy Me A Coffee LISTENER SURVEY - Enter to win a $50 gift card from River Rock Outfitter A Hiker's History of the Appalachian Trail with Mills Kelly Hiking Virginia's Summits with Erin Gifford Rock Climbing with Andy Nichols, Shenandoah Mountain Guides Fan Mail - Send Jessica a Text Message Contact Show Host, Jessica Bowser: jessica@virginiaoutdooradventures.com

    47 min
  2. National and State Park Travel Stories from California, Alabama, and Virginia (Ep 88, Part 1)

    Jun 23

    National and State Park Travel Stories from California, Alabama, and Virginia (Ep 88, Part 1)

    In this solo episode, I'm taking you along on another whirlwind journey that spans thousands of miles and some of the most memorable outdoor adventures I've had all year. From birding along Alabama's Gulf Coast and exploring Chincoteague's marshes to rock climbing in Shenandoah National Park, hiking brand new trails at the Breaks, and standing under giant Redwoods in California’s Muir Woods, there's a lot to unpack. Along the way, I'll share stories from the trail, tips to plan your own adventure, and a few behind-the-scenes moments from recent podcast episodes. Plus, I'm asking for your feedback as I consider a question that could shape the future of Virginia Outdoor Adventures. So grab your hiking boots, binoculars, or favorite road trip snack, and join me for a journey through state and national parks, coastal landscapes, mountain trails, and the adventures that continue to inspire this podcast. Let’s Go! Follow VAOA Podcast: Instagram I Facebook I Newsletter Sign Up Support the Show! Buy Me A Coffee Shop the Virginia Outdoor Adventures Merch Store! VAOA Podcast is Sponsored by: Virginia Association for Parks Breaks Interstate Park Virginia State Parks Heart of Appalachia  Mentioned in this Episode: Support the Show! Buy Me A Coffee LISTENER SURVEY - Enter to win a $50 gift card from River Rock Outfitter A Hiker's History of the Appalachian Trail with Mills Kelly Hiking Virginia's Summits with Erin Gifford Rock Climbing with Andy Nichols, Shenandoah Mountain Guides Fan Mail - Send Jessica a Text Message Contact Show Host, Jessica Bowser: jessica@virginiaoutdooradventures.com

    56 min
  3. Birding in Virginia: A Guide to Virginia State Parks with Ranger Evan Spears (Ep 87, Part 2)

    Jun 9

    Birding in Virginia: A Guide to Virginia State Parks with Ranger Evan Spears (Ep 87, Part 2)

    A flash of color across a meadow. A flute-like melody sung from a nearby branch. A raptor soaring high above a mountain ridge. These small moments of discovery are what make birding one of the fastest-growing outdoor activities today. Few places can match our incredible diversity of birdlife. From the tiny Ruby-throated Hummingbird to the majestic Tundra Swan, Virginia is home to hundreds of bird species across a remarkable range of habitats. I’m joined by Virginia State Parks ranger and avid birder, Evan Spears. We talk about why birding is helping so many people slow down, look closer, and connect with the outdoors in a whole new way. We’ll explore some of the best birding destinations across Virginia State Parks, share tips for getting started, and learn why spotting even a tiny bird can become a lifelong passion. So grab your binoculars or just your curiosity - there's an entire world of wildlife waiting to be discovered. Let’s Go! This is Part 2 of a two-part episode. Follow VAOA Podcast: Instagram I Facebook I Newsletter Sign Up Support the Show! Buy Me A Coffee Shop the Virginia Outdoor Adventures Merch Store! VAOA Podcast is Sponsored by: Virginia Association for Parks Breaks Interstate Park Virginia State Parks Heart of Appalachia  Mentioned in this Episode: Connect with Ranger Evan Spears: Evan.Spears@dcr.virginia.gov Find Birding Events in Virginia State Parks Merlin Bird ID eBird Fan Mail - Send Jessica a Text Message Contact Show Host, Jessica Bowser: jessica@virginiaoutdooradventures.com

    26 min
  4. Birding in Virginia: A Guide to Virginia State Parks with Ranger Evan Spears (Ep 87, Part 1)

    Jun 2

    Birding in Virginia: A Guide to Virginia State Parks with Ranger Evan Spears (Ep 87, Part 1)

    A flash of color across a meadow. A flute-like melody sung from a nearby branch. A raptor soaring high above a mountain ridge. These small moments of discovery are what make birding one of the fastest-growing outdoor activities today. Few places can match our incredible diversity of birdlife. From the tiny Ruby-throated Hummingbird to the majestic Tundra Swan, Virginia is home to hundreds of bird species across a remarkable range of habitats. I’m joined by Virginia State Parks ranger and avid birder, Evan Spears. We talk about why birding is helping so many people slow down, look closer, and connect with the outdoors in a whole new way. We’ll explore some of the best birding destinations across Virginia State Parks, share tips for getting started, and learn why spotting even a tiny bird can become a lifelong passion. So grab your binoculars or just your curiosity - there's an entire world of wildlife waiting to be discovered. Let’s Go! Follow VAOA Podcast: Instagram I Facebook I Newsletter Sign Up Support the Show! Buy Me A Coffee Shop the Virginia Outdoor Adventures Merch Store! VAOA Podcast is Sponsored by: Virginia Association for Parks Breaks Interstate Park Virginia State Parks Heart of Appalachia  Mentioned in this Episode: Connect with Ranger Evan Spears: Evan.Spears@dcr.virginia.gov Find Birding Events in Virginia State Parks Merlin Bird ID eBird Fan Mail - Send Jessica a Text Message Contact Show Host, Jessica Bowser: jessica@virginiaoutdooradventures.com

    28 min
  5. Stargazing in Virginia: Dark Sky Parks with Ranger Patrick Mcnamara, Sky Meadows State Park (Ep 86, Part 2)

    May 12

    Stargazing in Virginia: Dark Sky Parks with Ranger Patrick Mcnamara, Sky Meadows State Park (Ep 86, Part 2)

    What if I told you that one of the most incredible outdoor experiences in Virginia doesn’t happen during the day, but after the sun goes down? We’re heading into one of the most overlooked and truly magical parts of Virginia’s outdoors - the night sky. The kind where the Milky Way stretches overhead, planets come into view, and for a moment, everything feels a little bigger. Virginia is home to several International Dark Sky Parks, places where the night is protected and preserved, not just for stargazers, but for wildlife, ecosystems, and even our own sense of wonder. I’m joined by Ranger Patrick Mcnamara from Sky Meadows State Park, where programs like Astronomy for Everyone are opening up the universe to visitors of all ages. We’ll explore what makes these parks so special, what you can see through a telescope, and how you can experience it for yourself at a Virginia State Park near you. So whether you’re a seasoned stargazer or just someone who hasn’t looked up in a while, this episode might just change the way you see the night. Let’s Go! Follow VAOA Podcast: Instagram I Facebook I Newsletter Sign Up Support the Show! Buy Me A Coffee Shop the Virginia Outdoor Adventures Merch Store! VAOA Podcast is Sponsored by: Virginia Association for Parks Breaks Interstate Park Virginia State Parks Heart of Appalachia  Advertisers: Zenbivy Mentioned in this Episode: Virginia State Parks' International Dark Sky Parks Sky Meadows State Park Friends of Sky Meadows International Dark Skies Association Episode 41. Stargazing in Virginia’s Dark Sky Parks Episode 76. Primitive Camping and Backpacking in Virginia State Parks Northern Virginia Astronomy Club (Sky Meadows State Park) Chapel Hill Observational and Astronomical Society (Staunton River State Park) Roanoke Valley Astronomical Society (Natural Bridge State Park) Crewe Astronomy Club (James River State Park) Fan Mail - Send Jessica a Text Message Contact Show Host, Jessica Bowser: jessica@virginiaoutdooradventures.com

    23 min
  6. Stargazing in Virginia: Dark Sky Parks with Ranger Patrick Mcnamara, Sky Meadows State Park (Ep 86, Part 1)

    May 5

    Stargazing in Virginia: Dark Sky Parks with Ranger Patrick Mcnamara, Sky Meadows State Park (Ep 86, Part 1)

    What if I told you that one of the most incredible outdoor experiences in Virginia doesn’t happen during the day, but after the sun goes down? We’re heading into one of the most overlooked and truly magical parts of Virginia’s outdoors - the night sky. The kind where the Milky Way stretches overhead, planets come into view, and for a moment, everything feels a little bigger. Virginia is home to several International Dark Sky Parks, places where the night is protected and preserved, not just for stargazers, but for wildlife, ecosystems, and even our own sense of wonder. I’m joined by Ranger Patrick Mcnamara from Sky Meadows State Park, where programs like Astronomy for Everyone are opening up the universe to visitors of all ages. We’ll explore what makes these parks so special, what you can see through a telescope, and how you can experience it for yourself at a Virginia State Park near you. So whether you’re a seasoned stargazer or just someone who hasn’t looked up in a while, this episode might just change the way you see the night. Let’s Go! Follow VAOA Podcast: Instagram I Facebook I Newsletter Sign Up Support the Show! Buy Me A Coffee Shop the Virginia Outdoor Adventures Merch Store! VAOA Podcast is Sponsored by: Virginia Association for Parks Breaks Interstate Park Virginia State Parks Heart of Appalachia  Advertisers: Zenbivy Mentioned in this Episode: Virginia State Parks' International Dark Sky Parks Sky Meadows State Park Friends of Sky Meadows International Dark Skies Association Episode 41. Stargazing in Virginia’s Dark Sky Parks Episode 76. Primitive Camping and Backpacking in Virginia State Parks Northern Virginia Astronomy Club (Sky Meadows State Park) Chapel Hill Observational and Astronomical Society (Staunton River State Park) Roanoke Valley Astronomical Society (Natural Bridge State Park) Crewe Astronomy Club (James River State Park) Fan Mail - Send Jessica a Text Message Contact Show Host, Jessica Bowser: jessica@virginiaoutdooradventures.com

    27 min
  7. Virginia's Adventure Towns: Norton - High Knob Region Hikes, Waterfalls, and Travel Guide with Katie Dunn, Tourism Director (Ep 85, Part 2)

    Apr 28

    Virginia's Adventure Towns: Norton - High Knob Region Hikes, Waterfalls, and Travel Guide with Katie Dunn, Tourism Director (Ep 85, Part 2)

    We’re heading deep into the mountains of Southwest Virginia to explore Norton, a small city with a big reputation as an outdoor recreation hub in the Heart of Appalachia. Tucked into the High Knob Region and surrounded by the Jefferson National Forest, Norton offers something truly special - easy, immediate access to some of the most diverse and scenic outdoor experiences in the region. From panoramic overlooks and cascading waterfalls to miles of hiking and biking trails, this is a place where adventure starts just minutes from downtown. Whether you're chasing spectacular views at Flag Rock or taking in a gorgeous sunset at High Knob Observation Tower, Norton delivers big outdoor experiences without the crowds. Joining me is Katie Dunn, Director of the High Knob Destination Center and Norton’s Community Engagement and Tourism Director. She’s here to share what makes this mountain town so memorable – from its quaint main street to a little bit of local legend. Let’s Go! This is Part 2 of a two-part episode. Follow VAOA Podcast: Instagram I Facebook I Newsletter Sign Up Support the Show! Buy Me A Coffee Shop the Virginia Outdoor Adventures Merch Store! VAOA Podcast is Sponsored by: Virginia Association for Parks Breaks Interstate Park Virginia State Parks Heart of Appalachia  Mentioned in this Episode: Connect with Katie Dunn:  Norton, VA (Explore Norton) I High Knob Destination Center  Instagram: @hkdestinationcenter I @nortonvirginia   Facebook: High Knob Destination Center I Explore Norton Jefferson National Forest Flag Rock Recreation Area High Knob Region Outdoor Adventures Food and Drinks Nottingham Place Bed & Breakfast (Wise) Fan Mail - Send Jessica a Text Message Contact Show Host, Jessica Bowser: jessica@virginiaoutdooradventures.com

    30 min
  8. Virginia's Adventure Towns: Norton - High Knob Region Hikes, Waterfalls, and Travel Guide with Katie Dunn, Tourism Director (Ep 85, Part 1)

    Apr 21

    Virginia's Adventure Towns: Norton - High Knob Region Hikes, Waterfalls, and Travel Guide with Katie Dunn, Tourism Director (Ep 85, Part 1)

    We’re heading deep into the mountains of Southwest Virginia to explore Norton, a small city with a big reputation as an outdoor recreation hub in the Heart of Appalachia. Tucked into the High Knob Region and surrounded by the Jefferson National Forest, Norton offers something truly special - easy, immediate access to some of the most diverse and scenic outdoor experiences in the region. From panoramic overlooks and cascading waterfalls to miles of hiking and biking trails, this is a place where adventure starts just minutes from downtown. Whether you're chasing spectacular views at Flag Rock or taking in a gorgeous sunset at High Knob Observation Tower, Norton delivers big outdoor experiences without the crowds. Joining me is Katie Dunn, Director of the High Knob Destination Center and Norton’s Community Engagement and Tourism Director. She’s here to share what makes this mountain town so memorable – from its quaint main street to a little bit of local legend. Let’s Go! Follow VAOA Podcast: Instagram I Facebook I Newsletter Sign Up Support the Show! Buy Me A Coffee Shop the Virginia Outdoor Adventures Merch Store! VAOA Podcast is Sponsored by: Virginia Association for Parks Breaks Interstate Park Virginia State Parks Heart of Appalachia  Mentioned in this Episode: Connect with Katie Dunn:  Norton, VA (Explore Norton) I High Knob Destination Center  Instagram: @hkdestinationcenter I @nortonvirginia   Facebook: High Knob Destination Center I Explore Norton Jefferson National Forest Flag Rock Recreation Area High Knob Region Outdoor Adventures Food and Drinks Nottingham Place Bed & Breakfast (Wise) Fan Mail - Send Jessica a Text Message Contact Show Host, Jessica Bowser: jessica@virginiaoutdooradventures.com

    24 min
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4.9
out of 5
101 Ratings

About

From the Blue Ridge Mountains to the Chesapeake Bay, Virginia is a mecca for outdoor travel and adventure. Virginia Outdoor Adventures Podcast is your local guide to hiking, camping, kayaking, travel and so much more. Get the information and the inspiration to plan your own adventure, right here in Virginia. Lets Go!

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