Pocahontas State Park, nestled in the heart of Chesterfield, Virginia, is a true gem for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers. This expansive 7,925-acre park offers a diverse array of activities, from hiking and biking to boating and camping, making it a must-visit destination for anyone seeking to immerse themselves in the great outdoors.
Address and Contact Information
Pocahontas State Park is located at:
– Address: 10301 State Park Road, Chesterfield, VA 23832-6355
– Phone: 804-796-4255
– Email: [email protected]
– Latitude: 37.373973
– Longitude: -77.571782
Operating Hours
Pocahontas State Park operates on the following schedule:
– Park: Open daily from 7:30 a.m. to dusk
– Park Office:
– Sunday to Thursday: 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.
– Friday and Saturday: 9 a.m. to 7 p.m.
– Visitor Center: Daily from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
– Aquatic Recreation Center:
– Saturday, Sunday, and holidays: 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.
– Monday to Friday: 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.
– Closed August 19-23 and August 26-30
– CCC Museum:
– Friday: 1 p.m. to 4 p.m.
– Saturday and Sunday: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
– Camp Store:
– Thursday to Friday: 2 p.m. to 7 p.m.
– Saturday: 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
– Sunday: 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.
– Boat Rentals: Daily from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Activities and Programs
Pocahontas State Park offers a wide range of activities and programs for visitors to enjoy:
Guided Nature Hikes
The park’s knowledgeable rangers lead interpretive nature hikes, providing visitors with the opportunity to learn about the local flora, fauna, and ecosystems.
Campfire Programs
Visitors can gather around the campfire for engaging ranger-led programs, where they can learn about the park’s history, wildlife, and more.
Mountain Bike Trails
Pocahontas State Park boasts an extensive network of mountain bike trails, offering a thrilling and challenging experience for riders of all skill levels.
Volunteering Opportunities
The Friends of Pocahontas State Park group offers various volunteering opportunities, allowing visitors to contribute to the park’s maintenance and conservation efforts.
History
Pocahontas State Park has a rich history, dating back to its establishment in the 1930s:
- Establishment: The park was built by the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) between 1938 and 1942.
- Name Origin: The park was named after Pocahontas, the daughter of Chief Powhatan, who famously saved the life of Captain John Smith.
- Operational History: The park was initially operated by the National Park Service (NPS) and was later donated to Virginia State Parks in 1946.
Additional Information
- Size: Pocahontas State Park covers over 7,925 acres, with 300 buildings, 20 miles of roads, 20 miles of trails, and three lakes.
- Volunteer Hours: Volunteers contribute over 20,000 hours annually to the park’s maintenance and conservation efforts.
References
- https://www.dcr.virginia.gov/state-parks/pocahontas
- https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g57600-d1908674-Reviews-Pocahontas_State_Park-Chesterfield_Virginia.html
- https://www.dcr.virginia.gov/state-parks/document/po-campground-map.pdf