York River State Park

February 19, 2012

Known for its rare and delicate estuarine environment where freshwater and saltwater meet to create a rich habitat for marine and plant life, this park is on the York River and is designated as a Chesapeake Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve. This pristine environment offers clues to a rich natural and cultural history. Programs, activities and visitor center displays focus on the history, use and preservation of the York River and its marshes, as well as wildlife found in the river and the park. More than 25 miles of hiking, mountain biking and equestrian trails allow visitors to explore the marsh, river shoreline and forests. A boat ramp, fresh and saltwater fishing spots, a saltwater fishing pier, playgrounds, picnic shelters, and seasonal bike, boat, and recreational equipment rentals are available.

Activities:

Freshwater and saltwater fishing are available at several areas in the park (valid Virginia freshwater and/or saltwater fishing licenses are required). Boating: rental boats are available April through October for use on a freshwater pond; guided canoe trips and rental canoes are also available; motor boats are allowed only on the York River. Bicycling rentals available April through October.

Interpretive programs: pontoon boat tours; Native American programs; canoe trips on Taskinas Creek; Junior Rangers/Nature Explorers; Pre-school Prowlers; fossil hikes; nature hikes/games; wildlife observations; marine life; night canoe trips; ghost night hikes; seine netting and estuarine life studies; fishing clinics; children’s programs; beach activities; hay rides and campfire programs; various workshops.

Facilities:
Visitor Center: Visitors to York River can learn more about the value of the coastal estuary to the environment and about the area’s historical significance by touring this facility. Activities in the center focus on the history, use and preservation of the York River and its marshes. A small wet lab, resource library and variety of equipment and animals are available for use by school groups for environmental education activities.

Size:
2,505 acres

Accessibility:
Paved path along native plant arboretum leads to canoe dock. ADA restrooms in day use area. Boat launch restrooms are ADA accessible. One-half mile, self-interpreted, paved path around day use area. Three-fourths mile (one way), primitive, backwoods, ADA trail. (Depending on ability, assistance may be required.) Amphitheater is handicapped accessible. Visitor center. Wet lab with live exhibits (in season) Paved path leads to picnic shelters 1 and 2.

Fees:

Weekdays:

• 10 am to 4 pm: $2 per adult and $1 per child.
• Other weekday times: $1 per car.

Weekends:

• 8 am to 6 pm: $2 per adult and $1 per child. Maximum fee per car is $5.
• Other weekend times: $2 per car.

Parking for buses is $8. The park also offers special packages that include admission fees and other park amenities; contact the park for details.

For more information about York River State Park call (757) 566-3036 or visit the following website:http://www.dcr.virginia.gov/parks/yorkrive.htm.

Directions:
From I-64, take the Croaker Exit 231B. Go north on Route 607 for one mile, then right on Route 606 about one and a half miles and turn left on York River Park Road. The day use area is approximately 2 miles down this road.