Historic Martin's Station

Wilderness Road Heritage Festival
2025-10-11
Festival Day: Saturday, October 11 only
Call the park for times: 276-445-3065

Pumpkins in the Park – Trunk or Treat
2025-10-23 17:00 - 19:00 (America/New_York)

Karlan Christmasfest – Parade of Trees
2025-11-28 17:00 - 2025-11-30 20:00
Event Dates:
November 28–30
December 5–7
December 12–14
December 19–21
Fridays & Saturdays: 5:00 PM – 8:00 PM
Sundays: 2:00 PM – 5:00 PM

Karlan Christmasfest – Parade of Trees
2025-12-05 17:00 - 2025-12-07 20:00
Event Dates:
December 5–7
December 12–14
December 19–21
Fridays & Saturdays: 5:00 PM – 8:00 PM
Sundays: 2:00 PM – 5:00 PM

Karlan Christmasfest – Parade of Trees
2025-12-12 17:00 - 2025-12-14 20:00
Event Dates:
December 12–14
December 19–21
Fridays & Saturdays: 5:00 PM – 8:00 PM
Sundays: 2:00 PM – 5:00 PM

Martin’s Station Frontier Christmas
2025-12-13
Call the park for time: 276-445-3065

Karlan Christmasfest – Parade of Trees
2025-12-19 17:00 - 2025-12-21 20:00
Fridays & Saturdays: 5:00 PM – 8:00 PM
Sundays: 2:00 PM – 5:00 PM

Caning In The Valley
2026-02-28 09:00 - 17:00
Class will be held from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. at the Karlan Mansion.
With roots in the ancient world, and an art flourishing in the 18th century, caning became a symbol of wealth and statues throughout Europe. Across the ocean amongst the English colonies, distinct regions would develop varying methodology and style. Today, caning is practiced and appreciated in Southwest Virginia for its historical significance and Appalachian association. Join nationally renowned basket maker and caner Gary Carroll and learn to master this quintessential artform.
Cost is $50.00 per person, due at registration.
(This covers materials and a base if needed. Personal chairs or stools are preferred.)
Registration is open and closes February 6th, 2026.
For additional information, or to register for the class, please call the park office at 1-276-445-3065.
Lunch not provided.

National Butterfly Day
2026-03-14 10:00
10:00 a.m. Program located in the Visitor Center Theatre
Flying nearly 3,000 miles in migration, butterflies are seemingly delicate creatures that are true examples of nature’s awe inspiring beauty and determination. Join the rangers of Wilderness Road State Park and be a part of their truly magical journey. Watch and interact as we nurture larvae and assist in the growth of these tiny insects while understanding our job as stewards in sustaining their habitats, food sources, and much more.

A Karlan Easter Egg-stravaganza
2026-03-28 11:00 - 13:00
11 a.m.- 1 p.m.
Children ages 1 to 10 will hop along with the Easter Bunny as they search for elusive candy-filled eggs, some containing prizes. After the hunt, fun and games will be available for young and old alike.
Admission is $5.00 per vehicle

Frippery And Fashion On The Frontier
2026-03-28 13:00
1:00 p.m. Program located in the Visitor Center Theatre
Careful hair and skin care routines, and the desire to keep up with fashion trends, might be a characteristic more closely related to the 21st century rather than the 18th century. Pop culture has often depicted those on the frontier as ragged and dirty. But is this a fair assessment? Join with the women of Martin’s Station to learn more about what the average woman in the backcountry of Virginia would be wearing in the 1770s. This program will also delve into common myths and beliefs about cosmetic and hygiene practices of the period.

From Field To Forest
2026-04-11 10:00 - 16:00
Various Demonstrations from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
Known by many as a time of rebirth and renewal, spring brought welcome change to both the fields and the forest of Virginia’s frontier. Alongside its warmth and growth came countless chores that would prepare the settlements for a successful year ahead. Journey to Martin’s Station, interact with its inhabitants, and immerse yourself as fields are prepared for the planting of crops, spring greens are gathered for use in long-sought dishes, the forests are hunted for fresh meat, and more. Experience a springtime like no other, as it was two hundred and fifty years ago.

Earth Day
2026-04-25 10:00 - 16:00
Activities from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. at the Cumberland Gap Artists Co-Op’s Art and Wine Festival
Celebrate Earth Day with the naturalist of Wilderness Road State Park and create a personalized microenvironment. Fashion swirling sand landscapes from natural inspiration into a tiny world that you can place in the palm of your hand. Each microenvironment created reminds us of our planet’s beauty and our responsibility for its care.
Free Program While Supplies Last

Virginia For Liberty: 1776
2026-05-08 - 2026-05-10 | mslogo
Friends of Wilderness Road State Park Presents:
Virginia For Liberty: 1776
May 8–10, 2026 | Wilderness Road State Park | Ewing, Virginia
Step back in time and experience the spirit of colonial America at Virginia For Liberty: 1776 — a living history event set against the breathtaking backdrop of Wilderness Road State Park in Ewing, Virginia.
Over three immersive days, visitors of all ages are invited to explore the sights, sounds, and stories of 18th-century frontier life. From militia encampments and period military demonstrations to skilled artisans, traditional craftsmen, and authentic colonial trade goods, every detail of this event is carefully reviewed for historical accuracy to ensure a truly genuine experience.
What to Expect:

Authentic period encampments, shelters, and clothing from the 1750–1776 era
Live craft demonstrations using period tools and techniques
Militia and military interpretations
18th-century trade goods and hand-crafted merchandise for sale
Period music, cultural interpretation, and interactive programming
Native American cultural interpretation, reviewed for authenticity and cultural integrity
School day programming on Friday for student groups

Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a family looking for a unique outing, or a fellow living historian, Virginia For Liberty: 1776 offers a rare and unforgettable window into America’s founding era on the Virginia frontier.
For more information or to submit a participant application, contact: Wilderness Road State Park | 8051 Wilderness Road, Ewing, VA 24248 📞 1-276-445-3065 | ✉️ charles.jones@dcr.virginia.gov
Participant registration closes May 1, 2026. Merchant registration closes April 5, 2026.

Virginia For Liberty: 1776
2026-05-08 10:00 - 17:00
By the spring of 1776, the rumbling of revolution can be felt across the American colonies and into the far corners of the wilderness. The old buffalo trace now symbolizes freedom, though on it a dark shadow grows. For those in the west, community becomes key. Settlements are a beacon of strong will and steadfast determination. The call to unite in the midst of tyranny is heard amongst the whispers on the wind.
Travel to Martin’s Station. Experience the growing spirit of independence. Find wares of all types amongst the merchants and tradesmen. Meet the illustrious individuals who traverse the trace and the indigenous peoples they encounter. Immerse yourself in America’s story, our story. A story 250 years in the making.
Friday 10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
$10 per vehicle Friday & Saturday

Virginia For Liberty: 1776
2026-05-09 10:00 - 17:00
By the spring of 1776, the rumbling of revolution can be felt across the American colonies and into the far corners of the wilderness. The old buffalo trace now symbolizes freedom, though on it a dark shadow grows. For those in the west, community becomes key. Settlements are a beacon of strong will and steadfast determination. The call to unite in the midst of tyranny is heard amongst the whispers on the wind.
Travel to Martin’s Station. Experience the growing spirit of independence. Find wares of all types amongst the merchants and tradesmen. Meet the illustrious individuals who traverse the trace and the indigenous peoples they encounter. Immerse yourself in America’s story, our story. A story 250 years in the making.
Saturday 10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
$10 per vehicle Friday & Saturday

Virginia For Liberty: 1776
2026-05-10 10:00 - 12:00
By the spring of 1776, the rumbling of revolution can be felt across the American colonies and into the far corners of the wilderness. The old buffalo trace now symbolizes freedom, though on it a dark shadow grows. For those in the west, community becomes key. Settlements are a beacon of strong will and steadfast determination. The call to unite in the midst of tyranny is heard amongst the whispers on the wind.
Travel to Martin’s Station. Experience the growing spirit of independence. Find wares of all types amongst the merchants and tradesmen. Meet the illustrious individuals who traverse the trace and the indigenous peoples they encounter. Immerse yourself in America’s story, our story. A story 250 years in the making.
Sunday 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
$5 per vehicle on Sunday

Kids To Parks Day
2026-05-16 13:00
1 p.m. Program located at the Nature Center
Join the majestic creatures of the sky and allow your creativity to soar at new heights. Bring the entire family to Wilderness Road State Park and participate in a fun filled afternoon on Kids To Parks Day! Join Rangers and create your own kite. Designs are up to you. Once complete, we will watch these natural canvases ascend to heights untold as smiles fill the faces of all below.

National Trails Day
2026-06-06 10:00
10 a.m. Hike Departs from the Visitor Center
Celebrate National Trails Day by tagging along with a ranger for a tree-tastic identification walk. Explore the Indian Ridge Trail and discover towering cedars to wide spreading oaks. Along the way, discover fun and surprising facts about the animals that call these trees home.
This easy-to-moderate hike is just 0.7 miles of leafy fun.
Participants must wear closed-toe, closed-heel, comfortable shoes (No sandals, flip flops, crocs, or high heels.)

Camp Wilderness
2026-06-06 10:00 - 16:00, 2026-06-20 10:00 - 16:00, 2026-06-27 10:00 - 16:00
10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
Calling all young explorers and adventurers! Step into a Ranger’s role at Wilderness Road State Park. Experience a day filled with hikes, crafts and more. Junior Rangers will learn new skills, make memories, and become champions of Leave No Trace principals for the great outdoors. Adventure awaits!
Limit of 15 participants per session.
Parent or guardian must stay with child/children at all times.
Pre-registration is required.
For additional information, or to register, please call the park office at 1-276-445-3065.
Lunch not provided.

Apprentices and Journeymen
2026-06-13 10:00 - 16:00
Various Demonstrations from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
During the 18th century, master craftsmen taught skills and labor through apprenticeships. The techniques learned were invaluable and became a necessary part of the labor force needed to build a new nation. Join the apprentices and masters of Martin’s Station as they explain their guilds and demonstrate their skills.

VSP History and Culture Weekend
2026-06-13 10:00 - 16:00, 2026-06-14 10:00 - 16:00
Various Demonstrations from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
Journey to Martin’s Station and find yourself immersed in Virginia’s frontier history. Explore an 18th century fort, interact with historic craftsmen, and enjoy firearms demonstrations.

DCR 100th Anniversary Celebration
2026-06-13 10:00 - 16:00
Various Activities and Demonstrations from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
In celebration of the 100th anniversary of the Department of Conservation and Recreation, join Wilderness Road State Park for a day of enjoyment and education. Journey to Martin’s Station and learn about the unique revolutionary history of southwest Virginia. Visit with Ranger Docen and experience the unique natural habitat that is the Cumberland mountain region with easy to moderate nature walks and fun crafts for the entire family. Finish the day with trivia that is sure to keep everyone on their toes.

Art of Tempering
2026-06-13 19:00
Art of Tempering Program at 7:00 p.m.
During the “Apprentices and Journeymen” programming day at Martin’s Station.

A Salute To Independence
2026-07-04 11:00
11 a.m.
The Second Continental Congress ratified the Declaration of Independence, leaving ties to the English crown in ruin and the North American colonies in an open state of rebellion. Join those in Powell’s Valley as word of liberty reaches the western edges of the Virginia colony. Listen as the Declaration echoes throughout the hills and experience an artillery salute for freedom.

Revenge on the Frontier
2026-07-11 11:00, 2026-07-11 13:00
It was commonly known on the 18th century battlefield that “Artillery lent dignity to what would otherwise be considered a vulgar brawl.” Join us at Martin’s Station, visit with “Revenge” and her crew, and experience the equipment and techniques of artillery on the frontier during the American Revolution.
Program times: 11:00 a.m., 1:00 p.m., and 3:00 p.m.
