Amateur and professional photographers are welcome at the State Arboretum of Virginia. No permits or fees are required, but donations are encouraged. A donation tube is near the information kiosk adjacent to the main parking area. There is no charge for admission except during special events. Engagement photos, senior portraits, etc. are welcome. Dogs are welcome but must be leashed at all times.
To assure the enjoyment of all visitors, please follow these guidelines:
- Leave absolutely No Trace. If you bring it with you, take it with you, even if it's organic.
- No glitter, confetti, smoke bombs, or chalk outlines.
- Please respect the collection. This is an outdoor research laboratory and living museum. Do not pick flowers or plants, or remove any signs or plant labels, as this may cause a botanical identity crisis.
- Do not step or stand in garden beds, or pose subjects in trees or on stone walls.
- If you turn or move a bench, please return it to its original location.
- Tripods are allowed, but please do not block walkways or paths when other visitors are present.
- Avoid buildings during business hours. Only staff and residents are allowed upstairs in the Quarters.
- Photographers may not block or reserve any area for their exclusive use. More than 150,000 visitors come to the Arboretum every year. Expect company, especially on weekends. You can check our Reservation Calendar to see if there are any scheduled events that may impact your plans.
If you have any questions, please call Public Relations Coordinator Stephanie Swaim at 540-837-1758 Ext. 246 or email stephanie.swaim@virginia.edu.
Thanks, and Happy Shooting!