Historic Martin's Station

A Salute To Independence
2026-07-04 11:00 (America/New_York)
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, 2026-07-11 15:00
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.

World Snake Day
2026-07-18 13:00 - 15:00
1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m.
Come ssssee what Wildernessss Road Sssstate Park has to offer on World Snake Day! These slithering reptiles play an important role in our environment. Find out how with a hands-on experience with snakes!

Community Appreciation
2026-07-25 11:00 - 15:00
11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.
In appreciation for continued support, Wilderness Road State Park offers a day of entertainment. The event includes historical activities and tours as well as bounce houses, water slides, games and more.
Admission is Free
Sponsored by the Friends of Wilderness Road State Park

S’mores and More!
2026-08-07 19:00
7:00 p.m.
Celebrate National S’mores Day with a night of classic campfire fun! Pitch a tent, gather around, and enjoy sweet treats. Share stories, tell tall tales, or curl up with a good book under the stars. Recharge, connect, and enjoying the simpleness of camping.

The Spice of Life
2026-08-08 10:00 - 16:00
Various Foodways Demonstrations from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
Great culinary innovations transformed the flavor profiles of the 18th century. New spices were introduced, not only enhancing flavors, but playing a pivotal role in preserving food and maintaining health. Available to both the wealthy and poor, join the cooks of Martin’s Station as they open their spice stores. Witness the magnificent dishes they create and savor the flavors of the 18th century.

Unbroken: Heroines of the Virginia Frontier
2026-09-12 10:00 - 16:00
Various Activities and Demonstrations from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
Across Virginia, women made the journey into the wilderness with hearts full of hope. They established new homes and created opportunities for generations to come. Travel the hunter’s trace to Martin’s Station and join the women of Powell’s Valley as they harness the unbreakable spirit and pay homage to the women who birthed a new and free nation.

Girl Scouts Love State Parks Weekend
2026-09-12 10:00 - 16:00
Various Activities and Demonstrations from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
Across Virginia, women made the journey into the wilderness with hearts full of hope. They established new homes and created opportunities for generations to come. Travel the hunter’s trace to Martin’s Station and join the women of Powell’s Valley. Learn the skills and knowledge they found necessary to survive and thrive on the frontier.

National Public Lands Day
2026-09-26 10:00
10:00 a.m.
Any trail…anywhere…leave it better. Visit Wilderness Road State Park on National Public Lands Day as we host a trail clean up! Participants will work together to clean up a local trail or creek, helping protect wildlife, improve the natural environment, and keep outdoor areas beautiful for everyone. This rewarding activity is a great way to give back, learn about environmental stewardship, and make a positive impact in your community.
Participants must wear closed-toe, closed-heel, comfortable shoes (No sandals, flip flops, crocs, or high heels.)

The Frontier Apprentice
2026-10-09 10:00 - 17:00
Characterized through the intricate beauty of their respective artistry, craftsmen were a centralized point effecting economic and political life in colonial America. As much as was reflected through influence and tradition two hundred and fifty years ago, the Frontier Apprentice strives to secure the craftsmanship of the 18th century in the modern day. Join artisans, tradesmen, and scholars as they gather at Martin’s Station for three days of enjoyment, education and experience.
Pre registration for classes is required.
Each class will have an associated fee.
Class participation is not required to attend the event.
Seminars will be available to participants and park guests alike at no cost.
Juried camping is available for event participants.
$10 per vehicle Friday and Saturday
$5 per vehicle on Sunday
Friday 10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.

Wilderness Road Heritage Festival
2026-10-10 10:00 - 17:00
10 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Experience a celebration of Southwest Virginia’s unique cultural heritage. This event features handmade Appalachian crafts available for purchase on the Karlan Mansion lawn. Watch as demonstrators showcase their time honored skills. Musicians grace the stage to keep you entertained, while the children enjoy fun and educational activities all with an Appalachian theme.
Concessions will be available for purchase.
Admission is $10.00 per vehicle.

The Frontier Apprentice
2026-10-10 10:00 - 17:00
Characterized through the intricate beauty of their respective artistry, craftsmen were a centralized point effecting economic and political life in colonial America. As much as was reflected through influence and tradition two hundred and fifty years ago, the Frontier Apprentice strives to secure the craftsmanship of the 18th century in the modern day. Join artisans, tradesmen, and scholars as they gather at Martin’s Station for three days of enjoyment, education and experience.
Pre registration for classes is required.
Each class will have an associated fee.
Class participation is not required to attend the event.
Seminars will be available to participants and park guests alike at no cost.
Juried camping is available for event participants.
$10 per vehicle Friday and Saturday
$5 per vehicle on Sunday
Saturday 10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.

The Frontier Apprentice
2026-10-11 10:00 - 12:00
Characterized through the intricate beauty of their respective artistry, craftsmen were a centralized point effecting economic and political life in colonial America. As much as was reflected through influence and tradition two hundred and fifty years ago, the Frontier Apprentice strives to secure the craftsmanship of the 18th century in the modern day. Join artisans, tradesmen, and scholars as they gather at Martin’s Station for three days of enjoyment, education and experience.
Pre registration for classes is required.
Each class will have an associated fee.
Class participation is not required to attend the event.
Seminars will be available to participants and park guests alike at no cost.
Juried camping is available for event participants.
$10 per vehicle Friday and Saturday
$5 per vehicle on Sunday
Sunday 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.

Pumpkins in the Park: Trunk or Treat
2026-10-22 17:00 - 19:00
5:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m.
Enjoy pumpkin decorating, costume contests, and a community based Trunk-or-Treat, where children enjoy an old fashioned Halloween in a safe environment.
Contest for the best decorated community display.
Admission is $5.00 per vehicle

Wicked Tales of the Wild Frontier
2026-10-24 17:30, 2026-10-24 19:00
Lantern Tours at 5:30 p.m. and 7:00 p.m.
Known throughout history as a backdrop for adventure and freedom, the frontier concealed far more in the dark reaches of its hollows and hills. Journey by lantern light into the shadows and listen to tales that have quietly echoed throughout the annals of history since the fabled days of the pioneer.

Forting Up
2026-11-12 00:00, 2026-11-13 00:00, 2026-11-14 00:00, 2026-11-15 00:00
Imagine finding yourself approaching a beacon of rest and resupply with nothing but the clothes on your back. You are miles, days, beyond the fringes of civilization and a wooden palisade is all the stands between you and the untamed wilderness. Danger lurks within the shadows, but opportunity arises each day with the sun. Join the men and women of Martin’s Station and immerse yourself in the lives of those who helped to forge this great nation and open America’s “first” west.
This program is designed to take living history and experimental archaeology to a new level. Participants will find themselves transported into the 18th century and receive a once in a lifetime experience.
This is a first come, first serve, fee-based program with limited participation.
For additional information, please call the park office at 1-276-445-3065

Wilderness Road Yuletide Marketfaire
2026-11-27 17:00 - 20:00
Join us for an extraordinary holiday experience at Wilderness Road State Park. Bring the entire family to our 1st annual Yuletide Marketfaire. Experience unique and inspiring creations from historic and modern vendors alike (All available for purchase). Enjoy festive and historic decoration, all the while listening to the sounds of this jovial season.
Concessions will be available for purchase.
Friday 5:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.

Karlan Christmas: Parade of Trees
2026-11-27 17:00 - 20:00, 2026-11-28 17:00 - 20:00, 2026-11-29 14:00 - 17:00, 2026-12-04 17:00 - 20:00, 2026-12-05 17:00 - 20:00
Join us for a magical and entertaining view of one of our most treasured holidays at the Karlan Mansion. Browse trees uniquely decorated by the local community while enjoying classic holiday music. The staff and Friends of Wilderness Road State Park look forward to sharing in the celebration of the holiday season.
Admission is $2.00 per person.
Children 12 and under are Free.

Wilderness Road Yuletide Marketfaire
2026-11-28 12:00 - 20:00
Join us for an extraordinary holiday experience at Wilderness Road State Park. Bring the entire family to our 1st annual Yuletide Marketfaire. Experience unique and inspiring creations from historic and modern vendors alike (All available for purchase). Enjoy festive and historic decoration, all the while listening to the sounds of this jovial season.
Concessions will be available for purchase.
Saturday 12:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.

A Frontier Christmas
2026-11-28 17:00
5:00 p.m. at the Robinson Cabin
As cold winds and long shadows fill Powell’s Valley, join the inhabitants of Joseph Martin’s station at the Pig and Panther Tavern for an evening of glad tidings and good cheer. Join the historic Yuletide celebration, learn about Christmas in Virginia during at the onset of the Revolutionary war, and experience the holiday season as it abounds amongst Martin’s Company.
