Laws & Policies

Firearms in National Parks
The law governing possession of firearms inside a national park changed on February 22, 2010.

Visitors may possess firearms within a national park unit provided they comply with federal, state, and local laws.

The role of the responsible gun owner is to know and obey the federal, state, and local laws appropriate to the park they are visiting. For more information about Virginia gun laws, please visit their website

Please remember that federal law prohibits firearms in certain park facilities and buildings. These places are marked with signs at public entrances.

Rules and Regulations Pertaining to the Park: Metal Detecting
Metal detecting, digging, and possessing a metal detector are illegal in national parks. For more information about efforts to protect archeological resources within the national parks visit the NPS ARPA (Archeological Resources Protection Act) page.

 

Superintendent's Compendium

The compendium is a document that lists special designations, closures, permit requirements, and other restrictions imposed under discretionary authority of the superintendent.

Ways to access the compendium:
Read the Superintendent's Compendium online
Request a copy by email
Call the park at 804-732-3531 x200