Governor Glenn Youngkin has announced the release of the 2024 Virginia Outdoors Plan, a comprehensive strategy aimed at expanding outdoor recreation opportunities, conserving natural spaces, and enhancing public access to parks and trails. 

A key component of the plan is based on the findings of the 2022 Virginia Outdoors Survey, conducted by the Survey and Evaluation Research Laboratory (SERL) at the L. Douglas Wilder School of Government and Public Affairs at Virginia Commonwealth University. The survey provided critical insights into Virginians' outdoor recreation preferences, shaping the priorities of the new plan.

View the 2024 Virginia Outdoors Plan

View the SERL Report of Results

The Wilder School’s survey revealed a growing public appreciation for outdoor recreation. 82% of respondents said access to outdoor spaces was "very important," a dramatic rise from 55.6% in 2011. Additionally, 86% of Virginians strongly supported protecting natural and open spaces from development. The survey also identified the top reasons for outdoor recreation, including physical activity, mental health benefits and connecting with nature. The most needed recreation resources were natural areas, trails and parks, with participants highlighting the need for better facilities such as restrooms, paved trails and closer access to parks.

 “Partnerships like this with the Commonwealth of Virginia represent a vital part of our work. These collaborations facilitate solutions that improve quality of life for Virginians by connecting research to strengthen communities and shape smarter policies." – Robyn McDougle, associate dean of research and outreach

SERL researchers took a two-pronged approach that utilized a probability sample designed to allow for generalizations across the Commonwealth as well as crowd-sourced opinions via email, the internet and social media. 

“It is so exciting these results were used to create an Outdoor Plan, and further, that this plan is easily accessible to everyone online,” said Julie Charbonnier, Ph.D., SERL consultant and facilitator. 

“We are thankful to all survey respondents who participated in this effort, and we are honored and proud to have contributed to DCR's mission by capturing the opinions of Virginians.” 

A major shift in this year’s plan is its transition from a print document to an interactive online platform, allowing users to explore data through spatial mapping tools. DCR officials, Going digital is aimed at enhancing accessibility and providing a more dynamic resource for policymakers, planners, and the public.

With the theme “Best in Class Recreation for All,” the plan focuses on expanding outdoor access, improving infrastructure, and ensuring long-term sustainability for recreation spaces. Approved by the National Park Service on December 18, 2024, the plan will guide outdoor recreation efforts from 2025 to 2030, reinforcing Virginia’s commitment to making high-quality outdoor experiences available to all.

The Virginia Outdoors Plan, developed by the Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR), serves as the state’s official guide for recreation planning and land conservation. It helps communities and agencies secure funding, including grants from the federal Land and Water Conservation Fund (LWCF), which allocated a record $7.2 million to Virginia in fiscal year 2024. Since 1965, the LWCF has provided nearly $126 million for over 450 outdoor recreation projects across the Commonwealth.