Virginia state forests offer abundant opportunities for learning about natural resources, forestry, water resources, and wildlife, as well as a visible demonstration of forest management techniques.
Self-Directed Learning
Some state forests have nature trails with interpretational signs to help educate visitors about what they see. Bring along our Common Native Trees of Virginia Identification Guide and Common Native Shrubs and Woody Vines of Virginia Identification Guide along to a state forest and learn about identifying the most common trees in Virginia.
| Image | Title | ID | Description | View |
|---|---|---|---|---|
 | Acorn and Nut Identification Guide | FT0060 | Forestry topic information sheet helps in identifying the most common acorns and nuts in Virginia to assist in the collection for our nursery. | View |
 | Bark Types | Pictorial sheet showing the types of bark with photo samples of each. | View | |
 | Basic Tree Identification | By Ellen Powell, Conservation Education Coordinator – Presentation reviews the basics of tree identification. | View | |
 | Common Native Shrubs and Woody Vines of Virginia: Identification Guide | P00027 | Identification book is a favorite of teachers, Scout leaders and outdoor enthusiasts. Book features descriptions, line drawings and an identification key to the most common native Virginia shrubs and woody vines. It also contains hints for effective plant identification, invasive species threats, and more. Printed copies available for sale. | View |
 | Common Native Shrubs and Woody Vines of Virginia: Identification Guide (2-page-spread) | P00027 | Identification book is a favorite of teachers, Scout leaders and outdoor enthusiasts. Book features descriptions, line drawings and an identification key to the most common native Virginia shrubs and woody vines. It also contains hints for effective plant identification, invasive species threats, and more. Printed copies available for sale. | View |
 | Common Native Trees of Virginia: Identification Guide | P00026 | Identification book is a favorite of teachers, Scout leaders and outdoor enthusiasts. Book features descriptions, line drawings, and an identification key to the most common native Virginia trees. It also contains hints for effective plant identification, invasive species threats, and more. Printed copies available for sale. | View |
 | Common Native Trees of Virginia: Identification Guide (2-page spreads) | P00026 | Identification book is a favorite of teachers, Scout leaders and outdoor enthusiasts. Book features descriptions, line drawings, and an identification key to the most common native Virginia trees. It also contains hints for effective plant identification, invasive species threats, and more. Printed copies available for sale. | View |
 | Identification Guide Book Order – In-Person Sales | 13.04 | Use this order form to request books for purchase and pickup in person. | View |
Virginia Department of Forestry offers many informational publications on a variety of subjects for self-learning. Browse our Resource Library.
Formal Education Programs
Formal educational programs at state forests for groups may be arranged at some state forests for youth and adults.
For more information or questions about educational program opportunities, e-mail us with “state forest name” in the subject line.
If you’re interested in educational programs and are located in southwest Virginia, learn more about Matthews State Forest Education Center.
Camping
While camping, either temporary or permanent is not permitted on state forests, the state forest manager may issue special Camping Permits for organized groups or special events, such as Boy or Girl Scout Troops. Contact the e-mail the state forest headquarters about group Camping Permits.
Help Support State Forest Education
You can support educational programs on your state forests by donating a portion of your state income tax refund to Virginia’s State Forests Fund. Virginia State Forests are fully self-supporting except for donations. Conservation education activities for all ages (self-guided and structured) are funded through generous taxpayer contributions to Virginia’s State Forest Education Fund tax check-off.
To contribute to the Virginia’s State Forests Fund, use the number “73” on your state tax form to identify the Virginia Department of Forestry as the recipient of your contribution. Thank you to all who have contributed in support of State Forest education!
Additional Resources
Learn more about educator resources available.
| Image | Title | ID | Description | Content Type | View | hf:tax:document-category | hf:tax:Media |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| ID That Tree – Conway-Robinson & Whitney State Forests | Identify trees of northern Virginia. | Document | View | education lesson-plans public-information | document | |
| ID That Tree – Matthews State Forest | Identify trees of western Virginia. | Document | View | education lesson-plans public-information | document | |
| ID That Tree – Zoar State Forest | Identify trees of eastern Virginia. | Document | View | education lesson-plans public-information | document | |
| Tree Trunk – Appomattox-Buckingham State Forest | Forest information for Appomattox-Buckingham Tree Trunk | Document | View | education lesson-plans public-information | document | |
| Tree Trunk – Conway-Robinson State Forest | Forest information for Conway-Robinson Tree Trunk | Document | View | education lesson-plans public-information | document | |
| Tree Trunk – Cumberland State Forest | Forest Information for Cumberland Tree Trunk | Document | View | education lesson-plans public-information | document | |
| Tree Trunk – Matthews State Forest | Forest information for Matthews Tree Trunk | Document | View | education lesson-plans public-information | document | |
| Tree Trunk – Prince Edward-Gallion State Forest | Forest Information for Prince Edward-Gallion Tree Trunk | Document | View | education lesson-plans public-information | document | |
| Tree Trunk – Whitney State Forest | Forest Information for Whitney Tree Trunk | Document | View | education lesson-plans public-information | document | |
| Tree Trunk – Zoar State Forest | Forest Information for Zoar Tree Trunk | Document | View | education lesson-plans public-information | document |
Contact Us
For more information or questions, e-mail us with “state forest name” in the subject line for specific state forest inquiries or use our contact form.