Bear Creek Lake State Park
Bear Creek Lake State Park offers a multitude of activities for the outdoor enthusiast. Conveniently located just an hour from Richmond, the Park is surrounded by the Cumberland State Forest. A number of hiking trails offer opportunities for biking, hiking, horseback riding or simply admiring the wildlife. The Park also features a 40-acre lake, which is great for crappie, bream, channel catfish and largemouth bass fishing. A boat ramp is available if you bring your own vessel, or you can rent a boat at the lake. The Park has campgrounds available, as well as cabins and a lodge for large groups. Cabins have fully equipped kitchens, fireplaces and phones. The lodge has six bedrooms, and will accommodate up to 16 people.
Bear Creek Lake State Park
22 Bear Creek Lake Road
Cumberland, VA 23040
(804) 492-4410
virginia.gov
First Landing State Park
The Chesapeake Bay is the perfect setting for a weekend getaway or an extended vacation, and First Landing State Park is there for all of your outdoor enjoyment. The Park offers swimming, boating, biking, hiking and fishing. With 19 miles of trails, the Park offers more than enough outdoor adventure to keep you busy. Campgrounds are available, which include hookups, as well as shower and bathroom facilities. Cabins are also available, and feature fully equipped kitchens, outdoor grills, screened porches, fireplaces and decks. Guided and self-guided nature and history programs are available through the Park Service. The Park's Bay Store sells groceries, camping supplies, crabbing gear and fishing bait.
First Landing State Park
2500 Shore Drive
Virginia Beach, VA 23451
(757) 412-2300
virginia.gov
James River Plantations
Charles City County is one of the oldest counties in the United States and home to some of the most beautifully preserved plantations in Virginia. The James River Plantations, stretching out along the beautiful landscape of Virginia Route 5, consist of five plantations, four of which are open to the public for tours. The James River Plantations consist of Sherwood Forest, Westover, Shirley, Evelynton and Berkeley Plantations. Guided and self-guided tours are available, depending on when you plan to visit. In addition to being a stunning example of an early American plantation, the Sherwood Forest Plantation was also home to U.S. President John Tyler for the last 20 years of his life. Hours or operation vary, so each location should be contacted when planning your visit.
James River Plantations
Virginia Route 5
Charles City County, Virginia 23030
(804) 829-5377
jamesriverplantations.org