Richmond in Virginia is a terrific city to visit, with plenty of sites, attractions and a fabulous nightlife scene to keep you entertained.
However, outside of its city limits there is plenty more to see in the region, not least some terrific state parks. So in this article, we’ll take a closer look at some of the most interesting places you can visit.
Composing beautiful landscapes that include rivers, hillsides, mountains and lakes, these public spaces offer a wide range of recreational activities.
From boating, swimming and fishing to hiking, mountain biking and birding, guests can relax and immerse themselves in their surroundings in several different ways.
Many of these areas are situated within an hour’s drive of the park and some have camping options available for those who want to stay for a few nights.
With that in mind, if you fancy a weekend getaway or even just a day trip into nature, here are five of the most popular state parks near Richmond, VA you should visit.
Map of State Parks Near Richmond VA
Here is a map of the Virginia state parks covered in this post:
List of State Parks Near Richmond
All of the state parks outlined below offer something different for the visitor. If you love exploring the great outdoors there is plenty for you to see at them.
1. Pocahontas State Park
Location: 10301 State Park Rd, Chesterfield, VA 23832
Pocahontas State Park is a beautiful and expansive state park which is located just 20 miles south of Richmond.
The park covers over 7,000 acres and features a variety of natural attractions. This includes more than 80 miles of hiking and biking trails, which you can explore independently or via guided nature hikes and walks.
It also has a large lake for fishing and boating, and a swimming pool for visitors to enjoy during the summer months. Additionally, the park also features several picnic areas and playgrounds for families to relax and enjoy the scenic surroundings.
In addition to outdoor activities, Pocahontas State Park also has several camping options, including cabins, yurts, and traditional campsites. These campsites offer both electric and non-electric options, and some even have water hookups. Other amenities you will find at the park include a camp store, laundry facilities, hot showers and flush toilets.
2. Powhatan State Park
Location: 4616 Powhatan State Park Rd, Powhatan, VA 23139
Whether you’re interested in exploring the James River, hiking through the woods, or just relaxing in a peaceful setting, Powhatan State Park is a great destination to visit.
Situated about 25 miles to the west of Richmond, the park covers over 1,500 acres and offers visitors a variety of outdoor activities to enjoy.
One of the park’s main attractions is the access to the James River it provides those who enjoy canoeing, kayaking, and fishing. The park also has several hiking trails, including one that follows the river and offers scenic views of the surrounding landscape.
Birders will also love the park for the different species they can spot throughout its landscape, while photographers should get plenty of inspiration for different subjects to capture.
For those who need camping facilities, the park offers a number of tent and RV sites, as well as cabins. These campsites offer electric and non-electric options, and some have connections for water hookups.
3. York River State Park
Location: 9801 York River Park Rd, Williamsburg, VA 23188
For those wanting to spend some quality time relaxing in nature, York River State Park is a lovely place to visit.
Spanning over 2,500 acres, you’ll find it about 20 miles to the east of Richmond. It is particularly popular with anglers and boaters who want to take advantage of the opportunities for both that the York River provides.
In addition, hikers and mountain bikers love the park as it has over 30 miles of trails to explore that showcases its stunning landscape. This includes a boardwalk trail that winds through a swampy marsh and offers superb opportunities to observe wildlife such as bald eagles, ospreys, and herons.
As well as these activities, the river has several scenic picnic areas that make terrific venues for an al fresco meal with your family. Many of these are equipped with grills so you can cook up a feast to enjoy against its scenic backdrop.
For those traveling with their RVs or trailers, the park offers several sites that come with hookups for water and electricity. They also have a selection of primitive sites available too, as well as a number of cabins.
4. Bear Creek Lake State Park
Location: 22 Bear Creek Lake Rd, Cumberland, VA 23040
Another very good state park to visit near Richmond in Virginia is Bear Creek Lake State Park.
Situated around 40 miles west of the city, it sprawls for 326 acres and incorporates a diverse landscape that includes woodlands, open fields and its centerpiece 40-acre lake.
Many people come to the lake to indulge in kayaking, canoeing and boating, while fishing on the shore or in a boat in the middle of the water is also popular. During the warmer months of summer swimming is also a well practiced activity.
Away from the lake, the park offers 22 miles of hiking and biking trails for guests to venture into. This includes a scenic course that leads you to a beautiful waterfall that you’ll want to take lots of photos of for your Instagram!
For those who need a place to stay with their RV or trailer the park offers several powered and unpowered sites. It also has a nice selection of well furnished cabins and group camping too.
5. Lake Anna State Park
Location: 6800 Lawyers Rd, Spotsylvania Courthouse, VA 22551
At 60 miles away, Lake Anna State Park is the furthest state park from Richmond on this list. However, it is well worth making the effort to visit there.
Incorporating 2000 acres, the main highlight of the park is the sparkling 13,000-acre Lake Anna. As you would imagine, given its size, the lake is a popular spot for various boating activities including kayaking, canoeing and SUP.
It is also a noted spot for fishing, attracting anglers from all over the state with the opportunity to catch bass and trout, among several other species. Visitors can choose to fish on the shoreline or its dedicated fishing pier, if they don’t fancy casting a line from a boat.
For those into hiking, the park also accommodates more than 15 miles of hiking trails. While campers can choose from several electric and non-electric options for RVs, trailers and tents.
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