Hey Bob, Sorry you had to learn the hard way! But, it's not only Newport News Park, but "all," Newport News City Parks. Virginia has a lot of "off limits," areas because it was the "main," battle ground and "prize," during the Civil War. The government doesn't own it all though, and that's where getting permission and doing research comes in, as well as, hooking up with others hunters who knows the Do's & Don't's, and where and not where.I've only lived in Virginia for 3 1/2 years now, and I'm still learning. But I can tell you that most sites do not stay open long. Someone always comes along and spoils the fun for everyone by posting a sign! That's where persistence comes in. Keep Diggin'!!! Darryl (VA)