Longer evenings, spontaneous plans, and weekend adventures can only mean one thing: summer is near. With International Day of Play and the start of the World Cup both arriving on June 11, there’s no better time to experience Chesterfield. Whether your idea of play looks like live music, scenic trails, patio dinners, cheering on your favorite team, or family-friendly day trips with Fido along for the ride, June is when summer starts to settle in.

Play Outside

If your perfect summer day starts outdoors, Chesterfield has no shortage of places to explore. Spend the day hiking or biking scenic trails at Pocahontas State Park, paddle out on a kayaking adventure, or take in peaceful views along Swift Creek Reservoir.

Looking for a slower pace? Visit the Nature Center at Rockwood Park to discover local wildlife and hands-on exhibits or pack a picnic and spend the afternoon at Robious Landing Park, where river views and shaded green spaces invite you to settle in and stay awhile.

Early summer mornings and longer evenings make June the perfect time to explore outdoors. Whether your plans include hiking trails or finding a quiet spot by the water, Chesterfield’s outdoor spaces invite you to slow down and enjoy the season.

Play Around Town

June afternoons rarely stick to the original plan. Grab coffee from a local café, browse boutiques and small shops, or settle into a patio lunch with friends after a morning outdoors. From casual bites to tucked-away favorites, it’s easy for one stop to turn into several more along the way.

Looking for even more flavor? The Latino Farmers Market brings vibrant food, music, and community energy to Saturdays throughout the summer.

Play With Your Pup

June brings the kind of weather that calls for longer walks, patio afternoons, and bringing your pup along for the ride. From scenic trails and open green spaces to dog-friendly breweries and outdoor patios, Chesterfield makes it easy to spend more time outside together.

Spend the afternoon relaxing outside at Ashton Creek Vineyard, Three Leg Run or Hidden Wit Brewing Company, where dog-friendly patios and laid-back summer energy invite you to stay awhile. Whether you’re heading out for a morning hike, enjoying a brewery patio, or catching sunset views at the park, summer experiences are even better with your pup along for the ride.

Play the Night Away

There’s something about summer evenings in Chesterfield that makes you want to linger a little longer. Live music drifts through the park, patio tables stay full after sunset, and simple plans turn into all-night conversations.

Start the season with Pocahontas Premieres featuring the Richmond Symphony at Pocahontas State Park, where music fills the air beneath towering trees and the park transforms into an evening that feels equal parts scenic and unforgettable.

Looking for something more laid-back? Spend the evening at the Westchester Commons Concert Series, where live music, outdoor dining, and warm-weather energy set the tone for a relaxing summer night. Or grab a drink and settle in for Summer Nights at the Perk, a hidden-gem favorite for live music, relaxed crowds, and nights that never seem to end quite as early as planned.

Make June Your Month to Explore

From sunrise trails to patio nights after sunset, June is the perfect time to play here in Chesterfield, VA.

The post Your Summer Playbook Starts in Chesterfield appeared first on Experience Chesterfield.

March in Chesterfield is all about fresh beginnings, community connection, and celebrating the little things that make the area special. From the first signs of spring to lively events and ways to support local businesses, there’s plenty to see and do this month. Whether you’re planning a festive outing, exploring the outdoors, or shopping small, Chesterfield has something for everyone.

Spring Into Fun

With longer days and warmer weather, March is the perfect time to enjoy Chesterfield’s parks, trails, and outdoor spaces. Take a stroll to spot early blooms, plan a family-friendly hike, or explore a local garden. Celebrate the first day of spring on March 20 by getting outside and soaking up the season’s fresh energy!

Women’s History Month

March is Women’s History Month, a time to celebrate the achievements and contributions of women. Visitors can explore women-owned businesses, local artists, and cultural experiences that highlight the impact of women in Chesterfield.

Discover Local Favorites: Mom and Pop Business Day

On March 29, explore Chesterfield’s unique shops, cozy cafés, and one-of-a-kind boutiques for Mom-and-Pop Business Day. From handmade goods to local flavors, it’s the perfect opportunity to experience the charm and personality of Chesterfield while finding special treasures to take home.

Celebrate the Fun Things

Feel the luck of the Irish with St. Patrick’s Day celebrations across Chesterfield! From festive meals and themed parties to family-friendly fun, there’s something for everyone. While you’re here, catch the excitement of March Madness at local restaurants and breweries or make the most of Spring Break with outdoor adventures, local attractions, and plenty of ways to discover something new.

Notable Events:

Saturday, March 14:
3^rd Annual Seed Share with Chesterfield Master Gardeners

Saturday, March 14:
St. Patrick’s Day Party at Windy Hill Golf Course

Saturday, March 14:
8^th Annual St. Patrick’s Day Block Party at Great American Ranch

Friday, March 20:
3^rd Annual March Madness Kickoff Party at Latitudes Seafood (Westchester)

Saturday, March 21:
Easter Egg Hunt and Bunny Photos at Chesterfield Towne Center

Saturday, March 28:
Flights and Bites at Ashton Creek Vineyard

The post Experience Chesterfield Monthly Guide: March appeared first on Experience Chesterfield.

February in Chesterfield is all about connection, celebrating love, supporting local businesses, honoring Black history, and finding meaningful ways to get out and experience the community. Whether you’re planning a romantic date night, shopping small, or exploring powerful stories from the past, there’s something special happening across the county this month.

Shop Small for Galentine’s & Valentine’s Day

Show love not only to your favorite people but also to the small businesses that make Chesterfield special. From boutique gifts and local makers to sweet treats, self-care finds, and one-of-a-kind surprises, shopping small is a meaningful way to celebrate Galentine’s Day and Valentine’s Day. Discover where to shop local and support Chesterfield businesses this season.

Valentine’s Day Date Nights

Looking for the perfect way to celebrate Valentine’s Day in Chesterfield? From intimate dinners and live entertainment to fun, interactive nights out, there are plenty of ways to plan a memorable date. Whether you prefer a romantic evening, a playful outing, or something a little more low-key, Chesterfield offers thoughtful and unique ways to spend time with someone special. Explore our Valentine’s Day Date Night Guide for curated ideas and inspiration.

Explore Black History

February is a time to honor and reflect on Black history, both nationally and right here in Chesterfield. From historic landmarks and meaningful stories to lasting community impact and cultural legacy, the county’s Black history is deeply woven into the fabric of our region. Visitors can explore these stories firsthand by visiting the Chesterfield Historical Society, where exhibits, archives, and local narratives bring Black history to life and highlight the powerful contributions that have shaped our community.

Notable Events:

National Ice Cream for Breakfast Day at Gelati Celesti
Wear your pajamas and get a FREE donut with any ice cream purchase, plus enjoy one-day-only breakfast-inspired flavors, including the return of Cereal Milk.
All Gelati Celesti locations
Saturday, Feb. 7 | 9 a.m. to noon

Black History Month Kick-Off Celebration
Join Viriginia State University for a day-party celebration with live music, dancing and local vendors!
Martin Luther King Dr. Ettrick, VA
Saturday, Feb. 7 | Noon to 3 p.m.

Paint Your Partner at The Art Factory
You’ve seen the trend on social media. It’s time to participate! This event is perfect for couples, friends, or anyone looking to celebrate Valentine’s Day with creativity, laughter, and a little friendly competition. Each ticket includes two 11” x 14” canvases, all painting supplies, aprons to protect your clothing, guided instruction, and a beverage of your choice for two painters.
4810 Market Square Ln.
Thursday, Feb. 12 | 6 p.m.

Galentine’s Bingo at Great Big Greenhouse
Bring your girlfriends, indulge in delicious wine and win some plants! Tickets available at the door.
2051 Huguenot Rd.
Friday, Feb. 13 | 4-6 p.m.

Snowball Fest at River City Sportsplex
Celebrate winter with family and friends at the Snowball Festival! Enjoy a synthetic ice rink, winter-themed inflatables, a snow globe photo op, music, and more. Admission, activities, and skate rentals are free, just pay for food and drinks from local vendors. Skates available (youth size 8–adult 13), or bring your own!
13030 Genito Rd.
Saturday, Feb. 21 | 11 a.m.

Gals Night at Cross Creek Nursery
Enjoy music, a succulent bar, create a beautiful bouquet at the Build Your Own Bouquet Stem Bar, shop with local vendors, and indulge in delicious bites. It’s the perfect way to treat yourself and connect with your favorite ladies. Entry is free!
501 Courthouse Rd.
Saturday, Feb. 21 | 5-7 p.m.

Make the Most of February

From exploring history, supporting small business and celebrating love, Chesterfield’s February calendar is packed with ways to spend time with loved ones. Mark your favorites, invite a friend, and make plans to explore what’s happening around the county.

For even more events and things to do, visit our blog and follow us on social media for the latest updates all month long.

The post Experience Chesterfield Monthly Guide: February appeared first on Experience Chesterfield.

A new year calls for new experiences, and January in Chesterfield is full of easy ways to get out of the house, try something new, and have a little fun close to home. From trivia nights and karaoke to creative nights out, family-friendly events, and hands-on activities, there’s something on the calendar for everyone this month.

Escape the Chill:

Feeling a little stir-crazy with the colder weather and shorter days? Don’t worry, Chesterfield has plenty of indoor fun to keep everyone entertained, no matter your age!

Embrace the Chill:

Winter in Chesterfield has a quieter kind of magic and January is the perfect time to slow down, bundle up, and enjoy the outdoors in a whole new way. With fewer crowds, crisp air, and peaceful scenery, this is the season to experience the county’s parks, trails, and outdoor spaces at their most serene.

Explore History:

When it comes to experiencing Chesterfield, part of what makes the experience exceptional is all that came before us. No matter where you find yourself in Chesterfield, chances are, you’re close to major moments in history. From America’s earliest moments, Chesterfield played a pivotal role in shaping our nation’s history. Innovation, times of conflict, new beginnings – they all happened here.  

Notable Events:

Karaoke at Brew Craft Bar & Kitchen
Take the mic (or cheer from the sidelines) at Brew Craft Bar & Kitchen’s karaoke night. Great food, drinks, and crowd energy make this a fun way to shake up a weeknight.
6525 Centralia Rd.
Every Wednesday | 7-10 p.m.

Trivia at Hidden Wit
Put your brainpower to the test at Hidden Wit with a lively trivia night that’s perfect for friends, coworkers, or anyone who loves a little friendly competition.
21110 Hull Street Rd.
Every Thursday | 7-9 p.m.

Pop-Up Mimosa Bar at Ashton Creek Vineyard
Sip, socialize, and toast to the new year at this pop-up mimosa bar event. A relaxed vineyard setting makes it an ideal girls’ outing.
14501 Route 1
Sunday, Jan. 18 | 11 a.m. – 2 p.m.

January Plant Swap at Great Big Greenhouse
Plant lovers won’t want to miss this chance to swap greenery, share tips, and grow their collections, no green thumb required.
2035 Huguenot Rd.
Saturday, Jan. 24 | 1-4 p.m.

Reptile Event at Cross Creek Nursery
Get up close with fascinating reptiles during this educational and interactive event that’s sure to spark curiosity.
501 Courthouse Rd.
Saturday, Jan. 24 | 1 p.m.

Make the Most of January

From cozy indoor activities to creative nights out, Chesterfield’s January calendar is packed with ways to start the year on a high note. Mark your favorites, invite a friend, and make plans to explore what’s happening around the county.

For even more events and things to do, visit our blog and follow us on social media for the latest updates all month long.

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The post Experience Chesterfield Monthly Guide: January appeared first on Experience Chesterfield.

Calling all pumpkin spice lovers, leaf-peepers, and fall foliage enthusiasts! The crisp, cool morning temperatures have us dreaming of fall, how about you? Now is the perfect time to plan your trip to take in the colorful foliage of vibrant reds, oranges, and yellows. Use this guide to help you find places to view foliage in Chesterfield, Virginia this fall.

Enjoy Vibrant Water Views at Dutch Gap and Dodd Park Point of Rocks
Enjoy vibrant water views while hiking, fishing, canoeing, or kayaking in the 800-plus-acre conservation area that includes woodlands, wildlife, and waterways. The 4.5 mile, mostly flat, gravel hiking loop is open for hiking, biking, walking, running, and horseback riding and the 2.5-mile tidal lagoon water trail can be explored by kayak or canoe in a flat-water environment suitable for beginners. With access to water or trails, the Dutch Gap Conservation Area is a perfect spot to view fall foliage in Chesterfield!



Dodd Park Point of Rocks immerses visitors in nature along the Appomattox River, on a one-third mile boardwalk through a tidal marsh, and on wooded trails that teem with wildlife. Talk about a perfect place to view fall foliage!

Get a Bird’s Eye View at Skinquarter Farm
Reach new heights at Skinquarter Farm’s pumpkin patch, complete with stacks of hay bales so you can climb high and get a bird’s eye view of fall foliage in Chesterfield! While at the pumpkin patch, don’t miss your opportunity to get a hayride around the farm, pick-your-own pumpkins, get lost in the corn maze, and visit the farm-fresh market for local produce! This farm is the perfect family-friendly place to put you in the fall spirit!

Embark on a Hike at Pocahontas State Park
Pocahontas State Park offers 6.6 miles of walking trails, 33.1 miles of designated biking trails and 46.5 miles of designated miles of multi-use trails for hikers, runners, bikers and horseback riders. The trails weave through and past woodlands, wetlands, ponds, lakes and grassy openings, and its explorers can spot a variety of wildlife. And if you’re interested in viewing fall foliage for an extended time, consider camping, which is available year-round, allowing you the opportunity to connect with nature and escape the daily hustle and bustle.

Peep the leaves at Midlothian Mines Park
You won’t want to skip out on Midlothian Mines Park, where you can view fall foliage from two sides of the park, separated by a pedestrian tunnel that allows easy access to both sides (a favorite by many!). Peep the leaves as you explore the 1.6-mile trail, paved and gravel. The trail around the lake is paved and is wheelchair and stroller accessible, with scenic views featuring waterfowl, blue herons, turtles, fish, and more. The spacious trails offer plenty of interesting sights and sounds to immerse in nature and history. Bring a picnic to enjoy in the park or explore the plentiful options for dining in the nearby restaurants of Midlothian.

Walk or Bike along Scenic Paths at Rockwood Park
Rockwood Park contains 5.5 miles of walking paths that meander through 171 acres of wooded park land making this a great place to walk or bike along scenic paths offering beautiful fall foliage views. As Chesterfield County’s oldest park, it is also one of the most versatile and robust parks you’ll find. While you’re visiting, be sure to check out the Latino Farmers Market, offering a bustling hub of culture!

Experience Chesterfield promotes and celebrates all the things to see, do and experience within Chesterfield County. The website is not paid to endorse individual businesses or events and any that you may see mentioned are just a sampling of the many wonderful places to visit in Chesterfield. If you operate a hospitality related business in Chesterfield, please be sure to reach out to our partners at Richmond Region Tourism to create a business listing for our website. You can also reach out to Virginia Tourism Corporation to create a business listing on their site for additional exposure.

The post Top Ways to View Fall Foliage in Chesterfield appeared first on Experience Chesterfield.

Looking for something to do that doesn’t break the bank? We’ve got the ultimate guide to help you find free things to do this summer in Chesterfield because we know cost-free activities are the real MVP. Whether you’re looking to soak up the sun, stay cool indoors, or go on an epic adventure, let this list of free activities guide you through a fun-filled summer in Chesterfield!

Let’s Groove
Let the music fill your soul at the free Westchester Concert Series located in the Westchester Commons Shopping Center in Midlothian – 15786 WC Main St. Midlothian, VA. Concerts occur every other Thursday through Oct. 3 from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. and feature bands of all genres. While the concert itself is free, be sure to have some extra cash on hand if you’re interested in purchasing food or beverages. And what’s better than a free concert on an open lawn? Each concert benefits a local non-profit organization so if you do purchase food or drinks, you can feel confident knowing it’s benefiting a great cause. So gather your friends, your family or just you and your lawn chair and prepare to dance the night away to some of the region’s best tunes! Visit the Westchester Commons website to see the full line-up of bands.

HOME is where the heART is.
Summer in Virginia can be a scorcher so how about stay inside and delve into the art scene with a free self-guided tour of the beautiful gallery at the Perkinson Center for Arts and Education. Gallery hours are Tuesday through Friday from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. and switch about every six weeks. Enjoy art from a variety of artists including local high school students, professional photographers, poets, and so much more! Be sure to check the Perkinson Center for Arts and Education website prior to your visit to learn more about the current exhibit. Please note that the gallery closes in between exhibits so staff has time to prepare.

Workout.. but in a fun way
Did you know that Chesterfield is home to 67 parks? With an abundance of parks, there’s certainly no shortage of trails that each offer something a little different. Enjoy walking, running or biking along miles of trails and if you’re up for it, complete our free trail challenge to earn a limited-edition water bottle!

If exploring miles of trails isn’t enough of a workout for you, why not cook up some fun outside of the kitchen by playing pickleball at one of the county’s many outdoor pickleball courts like Rockwood Park, Huguenot Park, Daniel Park, CTC Hull, and more.

Discover waterways while working on that upper body strength by exploring the water in Chesterfield County! We’re home to the James River, Appomattox River, Swift Creek Reservoir and Lake Chesdin so whether you’re interested in kayaking, canoeing or paddleboarding, the options are endless!

Compete with friends, or enjoy time alone at the disc golf course at Goyne Park that offer a full 18 holes. Choose between short or long tees, offering free fun for all skill-levels!

Go Sports!
If playing sports isn’t your thing, how about watch them? Chesterfield County is home to some of the region’s best sports tournaments, welcoming athletes from all over the country. Did you know that the PONY World Series is hosted in Chesterfield? That’s right, the world’s best youth baseball teams travel right here to Chesterfield to compete for the title at Daniel Park! You can also catch soccer and lacrosse tournaments at River City Sportsplex, the Mid-Atlantic’s premier tournament destination! Or, check out swim meets at SwimRVA, where the pool from the 2008 Olympic Trials now resides! Yep – you can practically be in Olympic territory when you walk through the doors. To stay up-to-date on all the sports happenings in the county, be sure to follow our Play Chesterfield brand on Facebook and Instagram. You can also check out the Play Chesterfield website.

Take a Walk on the Wild Side at Rockwood Nature Center
If you haven’t visited the county-operated nature center at Rockwood Park, then what are you waiting for?! This log cabin-style building offers free fun for the entire family. Home to an array of native reptiles and amphibians, visual displays, a small pond, and a garden, this is one walk on the wild side you don’t want to miss. And while you’re there, be sure to say hello to Dottie, the spotted turtle, along with many other turtle species!

Step Back in Time
Featuring nearly 400 years of county history, the Chesterfield County Museum is a replica of the 1750 Courthouse and offers exhibits on Native American culture, early English settlements, the Revolutionary and Civil Wars, and the first iron and coal mines in North America. Talk about a step back in time! While there is no entry fee, donations are welcome. This free activity is perfect for all ages and history buffs!

Birds of a Feather
They say birds of a feather flock together, and you can witness this for yourself by going on a free bird watching adventure in Chesterfield! Our parks and open spaces offer a plethora of bird watching opportunities so be sure to bring along a pair of binoculars for your adventure. Whether your goal is to escape your day-to-day routine, or to seek a deeper connection with nature, birding in Chesterfield offers a free summertime activity to get to know your community’s residents – both human and avian!

Chesterfield is also home to numerous playgrounds, dog parks, and 10 public libraries, each offering incredible free fun for all ages! We could go on and on about all the free things to do in Chesterfield this summer, but we want to leave time for you to get out and explore. Be sure to stay in-the-know about all the incredible ways to experience Chesterfield by following us on Facebook and Instagram. And don’t forget to share your free outdoor fun by tagging us on social media (@ExperienceChesterfield) and using #chooseChesterfield and #experienceChesterfield. Enjoy!

If you’re looking for ways to beat the heat this summer, we have a blog for that too!

Experience Chesterfield promotes and celebrates all the things to see, do and experience within Chesterfield County. The website is not paid to endorse individual businesses or events and any that you may see mentioned are just a sampling of the many wonderful places to visit in Chesterfield. If you operate a hospitality related business in Chesterfield, please be sure to reach out to our partners at Richmond Region Tourism to create a business listing for our website. You can also reach out to Virginia Tourism Corporation to create a business listing on their site for additional exposure.

The post Free Things to do This Summer in Chesterfield, Virginia appeared first on Experience Chesterfield.

Chances are wherever you’re located in Chesterfield County, you’re close to a beautiful body of water. From kayaking, canoeing, power boating, fishing, or walking along waterside trail, you can use this interactive tool to find every water access point in Chesterfield. Did you know that Chesterfield County is home to the James River, Appomattox River, and Lake Chesdin? Not to mention the three lakes and waterfall located within Pocahontas State Park (Swift Creek Lake, Beaver Lake, and Camp 7 Lake). For a small fee, Pocahontas State Park also offers an Aquatics Recreation Center with a toddler pool, fountain wet-deck, leisure pools, two water slides, and much more!

COMING SOON: Three public splash pads at Bensley Park, Beulah Recreation Center, and River City Sportsplex.

If you’re interested in one of Chesterfield County’s many programs that offer access to the water, be sure to check out Parks & Recreation’s Explore the Water programs and events.

And don’t forget fishing is regulated by the Virginia Department of Wildlife Management (DWM). A fishing license is required to fish in Chesterfield County.

Here’s where to enjoy the water in Chesterfield County:

The post Enjoy the Water in Chesterfield County appeared first on Experience Chesterfield.

Encircled by an oxbow channel and nestled along the James River in Chesterfield County, the Dutch Gap Conservation Area protects important natural resources and wildlife while providing visitors a peaceful respite to observe and enjoy nature. There are over 800 acres of woodlands and wetlands to explore, where visitors may witness an elegant blue heron soaring into the marsh or beavers swimming in its waters.

Dutch Gap surrounds the historic Citie of Henricus, and its name comes from Sir Thomas Dale, who in 1611, attempted to shorten river travel around a meander of the James River by cutting a new channel through the river. 

Admission to the Dutch Gap Conservation Area is free and it’s open daily from 8 a.m. to sunset. As it offers so much to see and do, check out this guide on the different ways to explore and enjoy the Dutch Gap Conservation Area:

Exploring the Trails

The Dutch Gap Conservation Area offers its visitors many trails to explore – and in many ways.

The Dutch Gap Conservation Area has 5.8-miles of walking trails, including the Dutch Gap Trail. Hikers, walkers, bikers, runners and horseback riders can all enjoy the Dutch Gap Trail, which starts next to the Henricus Visitor Center. The trail is a 4.5-mile loop and takes its explorers through tidal wetlands, meadows, forests and more. The trail’s visitors can expect to see a wide range of birds, from American goldfinches, sparrow hawks, great egrets, red-wing blackbirds to bald eagles.

For those looking to get off solid ground, the conservation area also features the Lagoon Water Trail, a 2.5-mile tidal lagoon water trail which can be explored by Kayak or Canoe. The trail features a “graveyard” of barges, wetlands, islands and a heron rookery. The water is flat and safe for beginners.

Kayak and Canoe Tours

If you don’t want to brave the water trails alone, private, individual or group kayak and canoe guided tours through the tidal lagoon can be booked through Chesterfield County Parks and Recreation. The tour lasts three hours (two hours of paddle time) and includes nature guides, boats, paddles and flotation devices. Participants must be at least seven years old.

Fishing

The Dutch Gap Conservation Area is surrounded by water, allowing it to be a haven for fishers. Visitors can fish at any of the five docks located alongside the river trail. Fishers will find residential freshwater and migratory fish brought in by tidal waters. A fishing license is required to fish in Chesterfield County.

Bird Watching

The diverse habitat of the Dutch Gap Conservation Area allows for year-round birdwatching, where a variety of birds can be spotted. The Dutch Gap Conservation Area has two observation platforms along the road entrance and bird blinds in the conservation area for visitors to bird-watch from. Visitors have spotted Mallards, Northern Pintails, Great Blue Heron and American Coots, to name a few. Bring your binoculars and a birding journal and enjoy the tranquility of birdwatching at the Dutch Gap Conservation Area.

The post Dutch Gap Conservation Area Guide appeared first on Experience Chesterfield.

Experience camping in Chesterfield County inside the largest state park in Virginia! No matter your camping or lodging style, Pocahontas State Park has accommodations to meet your needs. With a lodge, three-bedroom cabins, campsites, yurts, and camping cabins that can be rented year-round, there truly is something for everyone.

Campsites

Campsites have electric and water hookups (no sewer), grills, picnic tables and lantern holders. There are centrally located restrooms with hot showers. Access to swimming and the boat launch is free for overnight campers (group camping customers must pay swimming fees).

All sites accept 20 and 30-amp current; a few accept 50-amp. Firewood is available for sale in the campground or park office. Two vehicles and the camping unit are allowed at each campsite. Each campsite has a steel fire ring that guests can use for cooking and campfires. All visitors and overnight guests must leave the park by 10 p.m. and are required to pay the daily parking fee.

Cabins

There are three 3-bedroom cabins available, each with a maximum capacity of eight people. The cabins include two bathrooms; one bedroom with a queen-size bed; one bedroom with two twin beds; and one bedroom with two sets of bunk beds (the room sleeps four); no bed rentals. Cabin 2 is universally accessible.

Lodge

The park features one lodge for rental. It has six bedrooms, with a maximum capacity of 16. The lodge has three bathrooms, one that is universally accessible; two bedrooms each with a queen-size bed; two bedrooms each with two twin beds; two bedrooms each with two sets of bunk beds (each room sleeps four); no bed rentals.

Camping cabins

There are six camping cabins available for rent, each with a maximum capacity of four. The camping cabins are furnished with two sets of bunk beds and a table with four chairs.

Yurts

Yurts are a modern adaptation of an ancient nomadic shelter and are a cross between a tent and a cabin. Pocahontas State Park features four yurts, each tucked away for privacy and extra shade. Enjoy wooded views off the large deck, complete with patio tables, a picnic table and a fire ring with a cooking grate.

For information on the availability of overnight accommodations, particular park amenities or to make a reservation, you can reserve online or call 1-800-933-PARK.

(Information from Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation & Virginia Tourism Corporation)

The post Pocahontas State Park Can Be Your Base CAMP in the Richmond Region appeared first on Experience Chesterfield.

In 1611, English soldier Sir Thomas Dale and his 300 men constructed their new home, Henricus, the second successful English settlement built in the New World.

400 years later, visitors can step back in time through historical interpretation and reenactments at Henricus Historical Park, a living history museum, to experience what was once Virginia’s western frontier.

Learn how to make the most of your next visit to Henricus; whether you’re visiting with a school class or visiting with friends and family.

Plan Your Visit

Henricus Historical Park is open to the public Thursday through Sunday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and admission is free.

Arrive at “Henryco Fort” and transport yourself to the 1600s. With 14 re-created colonial structures, you’ll meet interpreters portraying soldiers, workers and planters. In the fort village, you can talk with the local blacksmith and tradesman. Walk through the gardens and meet an indentured worker, the town farmer and his chickens, goats and pigs. Be sure to speak with an interpreter relating the story of Mistress Alice Proctor, wife of a tobacco farmer, to learn what daily life was like between 1611 and 1622.

Field Trips + Educational Activities

Whether you’re a teacher, parent, or a homeschool family, Henricus Historical Park is a superb field trip for students of any age. With numerous elementary and upper school programs to choose from, your learning objectives and lessons will be enhanced through historical reenactments and hands-on programs. Students will have the opportunity to learn about 17^th-century culture, politics, history, and more as first-hand experience.

If you’re visiting with your family, Discover Days is a family-friendly educational program offered throughout the year with activities such as scavenger hunts, gardening, crafts and more. Check out Henricus’ full schedule to see all upcoming Discover Days.

Special Events

History is fun at Henricus Historical Park! Year-round special events allow you to experience the historical site in a whole new way.

Hops in the Park – Every fall, enjoy this hops and harvest festival right here at Henricus. Learn about the rich history of brewing and enjoy good food with good people.

Haunted Henricus – Spend the spookiest time of the year at Henricus Historical Park with their special Halloween events. Things That Go Bump in the Night takes you on haunted night tours through Henricus while recounting old English folklore. Witching Hour Jr. is full of family-friendly Halloween fun with a costume parade, pumpkin carving, and more!

Christmas at Henricus – Yuletide joy fills the historical park through its special holiday events. Explore 17^th-century Christmas at a fully decorated Henricus in the evenings. Then, enjoy an authentic 1600s multi-course feast at Twelfth Night. We’re confident these events will put you in the holiday spirit.

With all there is to experience and explore, you’ll be sure to leave Henricus Historical Park enriched with historical knowledge and stories.

To learn more about Henricus, visit their website and check out their full calendar of events here.

The post A Guide to Henricus Historical Park appeared first on Experience Chesterfield.