This geocache is placed with permission of the Assistant Park Manager of Staunton River State Park. It is one of the six original Virginia State Parks opening June 15, 1936. With 2,335 acres of land, it merges both the Staunton and Dan Rivers into Buggs Island Lake (Kerr Reservoir); 48,000 acres. This land is rich in history stemming back well before the Revolutionary War, with the Staunton River being named after Captain Henry Staunton, who commanded a company of soldiers protecting early settlers. There is an abundance of information at the Visitor Center regarding the history surrounding this land and it's eventual transition to this wonderful Virginia State Park. The CCC (Civilian Conservation Corps) was instrumental in construction of numerous structures here in the early 1930's. It was also recognized as a National Historic Landmark and a Virginia Historic Landmark in 2007. Staunton River State Park is a great location for families with playgrounds for the children, freshwater fishing and boating, tennis, vollyball courts, equestrian campgrounds with stalls, wildlife viewing, camping, cabin stays, pool (seasonal), hiking more than 17 miles of multi-use trails and of course, the International Dark Sky. In 2015, Staunton River was designated an International Dark Sky Park because of it's ideal location for stargazing. You can contact the park office for information on interpretive programs and telescope rentals. Staunton River State Park is located at 1170 Staunton Trail, Scottsburg, Virginia. There is a fee for park entry.
Indeed...seeing forever isn't just for a clear day, but also on a clear, cloudless night. The stars shine and shimmer like diamonds...some forming constellations that are easy for most of us to recognize....like Orion, Cassiopeia, Ursa Major (Big Dipper) or the Milky Way. If you are really lucky, you might spot a meteor as it races like a flash through the sky. Using a star chart or night sky app on your phone can be very helpful in identifying stars or constellations. Staunton River State Park offers evening events that showcase the dark sky with others who have a passion for astronomy and astrophotography and are for anyone wanting to attend. The Observation Field, next to the Park Office, is a great place to find a great spot to do your own stargazing.
You will be looking for a small bison tube that contains only a log. Please bring your own pen to sign.
Congratulations to Night-Hawk for being FTF October 6, 2022.