Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage
Located in New Kent County, Virginia, New Kent State Park spans a mix of forested uplands and a substantial portion of Chickahominy Lake, created by the Chickahominy Reservoir dam. Established in the early 1980s, the park was developed to provide a destination for water-based recreation and land-based outdoor activities close to the Richmond metropolitan area. The park’s terrain features gently rolling hills, hardwood and pine forests, and open water, supporting a variety of wildlife including ospreys, blue herons, and white-tailed deer. Visitors come to engage in boating, fishing, swimming, hiking, camping, and mountain biking. Boaters have access to over 800 acres of lake area, with multiple boat ramps and a marina. The park maintains several developed campgrounds and picnic areas, making it suitable for families and groups. Hiking and biking trails weave through mixed forests and along lakeshores, offering scenic vistas and wildlife spotting opportunities. The park is also recognized for its educational programs and nature events that highlight local ecosystems and conservation efforts. Proximity to Richmond and easy access via Route 60 make it a favored natural getaway. Its combination of aquatic and forest environments offers visitors a broad range of recreational options in a relatively compact area.
