Natural Bridge, Sky Meadows state parks receive International Dark Sky status

NATURAL BRIDGE, Va. (WFXR) — The International Dark Sky Association (IDA) has awarded International Dark Sky Park status to Natural Bridge State Park in Rockbridge County and Sky Meadows State Park in Fauquier County.

IDA is an organization that works to combat light pollution worldwide. The organization recognizes areas and organizations working to maintain spaces where the public can see stars more easily.

Natural Bridge is the third park in the Virginia State Park system to be named an International Dark Sky Park.

“There are not that many accomplishments that bring recognition of this caliber to the hard work staff put into doing their jobs. Our Dark Sky designation is a continuation of the park’s effort to bring understanding and awareness to our natural resources. I cannot thank the park staff enough for the hard work they have given over the past three years.”

James Jones, park manager at Natural Bridge State Park

With the designation of Natural Bridge and Sky Meadows, Virginia State Parks has a total of four dark sky parks and Virginia has a total of five, which is more than any other state east of the Mississippi.