Who are the Friends of Smith Mountain Lake State Park, Inc. ?   We are a group of residents interested in supporting the park's mission, operation,and furthering the development of educational and entertaining programs for all ages. The Friends group meets monthly and is a non-profit, charitable organization with 501c(3) status. All membership dues and contributions are fully tax deductible.   If you enjoy the outdoors and natural environment and would like to preserve it for future generations, the Friends of Smith Mountain Lake State Park may be just the organization you are looking for.   In appreciation of your volunteer hours at the park, Virginia State Parks presents benefits to volunteers as a "Thank You" for your time and talent. Benefits are awarded according to hours accumulated and can range from annual park passes and T-shirts to camping and cabin privileges.

Friends/Park Sponsored Events       Junior Naturalists- Assist the park Interpreter with educational programs for children which include nature, wildlife and environmental topics. Music in the Park - Sell tickets, cook and sell food while listening to Bluegrass bands, at the beach, during the summer. Winter lecture Series - Topics include local history, folklore, nature, the environment and wildlife. Friends promote the program, host the event and provide refreshments. Youth Fishing Tournament - Promote and encourage children to participate,weigh in fish, provide lunch and present awards. Halloween Activities - Assist Park Interpreter with afternoon and evening programs for young and old. Osprey Program - Help maintain a nesting platform constructed high above the shore line, a viewing platform to see the nesting birds and a camera with live feed to the Visitor Center for an up close look.

Other Ways to Spend Time as a Friend       * Greet and welcome visitors to the Visitor Center, answer questions and offer assistance.   * Walk the park hiking trails making sure they are free of trash   * Assist the park interpreter with a variety of programs and activities.   * Plant and maintain a demonstration tobacco garden.   * Conduct hay wagon rides as part of a park interpretive program.   * Help the park with operations and management including the contact station, mowing, office assistance etc.   * Maintain a butterfly garden and a native species garden within the park.   * Maintain and operate the Friends gift shop.   * Support the park in matters of legislative interest.   * Produce, edit and maintain a website and/or newsletter.