If you’re looking for something fun to do in Tidewater Virginia this summer consider taking a trip to Chippokes State Park in Surry, Virginia. This park, located on the James River has something for everyone. Hikers, bikers, beach enthusiasts, equestrian trail riders, fossil/shark teeth hunters, camping, history and natural beauty lovers alike can find something they will enjoy at Chippokes State Park.
Rich in early American history Chippokes is said, to be named for the Algonquian Chief, Choapoke who had befriended the settlers. The first records indicate the plantation area was once owned by Capt. William Powell who came to the area on the third resupply ship to Jamestown in 1609. Starting off as a 500 acre land grant to Capt. Powell it grew to over 1,400 acres by 1646. Now a park and museums the property opened to the public in 1971.
Farm and Forestry Museum
As one of the oldest continuously farmed properties in the country Chippokes State Park has deep roots in farming and the land as well. The Farm and Forestry museum on property is an antique lovers dream. The Farm and Forestry museum contains a variety of over 600 antiques on display in a self-guided museum setting. The museum admission is included in your park fee and well worth the visit to Chippokes State Park itself.
The area across from the Farm and Forestry Museum has several live farm animals to view and a working cultural garden area. During certain times there are programs that include teaching about the livestock and animals on the farm. Visitors should check the Chippokes monthly calendar before their visit to see the list of current Interpretive Programs.
Jones-Stewart Mansion and the River House
Circa 1830
Chippokes State Park is home to two historic houses. The River House Circa 1830 was occupied initially by owner Albert Carroll Jones. The second house known as the Mansion House was constructed by Jones in 1852, along with the accompanying brick kitchen. This stately structure was even built using materials from the property.
At the time of Jones’ ownership Chippokes was the home of fruit orchards and my guide Joel, explained that this was once the site of one of Virginia’s few legal distilleries. People even claim this plantation survived the Civil War because Jones sold brandy to both sides during the war.
The River House is only viewable from the outside at this time and is in the process of being restored. The Mansion House however, is available for interior and exterior tours as part of the park admission. Victor and Evelyn Stewart were the last owners of the property and donated Chippokes to the Commonwealth of Virginia in 1967 with the purpose of it being used as a park. The Stewarts are buried on the property as well in the Paradise Gardens.
Things to do a Chippokes
The visitors center should be a first stop and has a plethora of information about ongoing programs at the park, trail maps, and information about the local area. Park Packs are available as well for checkout from the Visitors Center to explore the park.
Taking a fossil walk with a Park Interpreter or finding sharks teeth on the beach (that you can keep) is a unique opportunity at Chippokes State Park that visitors should definitely take advantage of when visiting. For horse lovers the park has marked equestrians areas for trailer parking and trail ride exploration. In addition to these activities picnicking areas that include rentable shelters with grills and drinking water is an option for visitors who want to relax and enjoy nature.
Camping at Chippokes
On the grounds of Chippokes State Park is a well laid out campground with tent and RV style sites. The campground is laid out in a traditional loop style consisting of two loops. If you’re interested in spending the night you can rent a yurt or bring your own RV, camper or tent. Chippokes also, has cabins for rent on the property.
In the campground there is a bathhouse with showers and restroom facilities. The campground has a dump station, laundry, firewood and an amphitheater where welcoming campfires take place. Group sites are available as well to rent.
The sites are mostly wooded and it was a very quiet area when I camped. Each site had a trash pole, firepit and picnic table as well as ample room to set up a tent or park a rv. The site I rented also, had a nice elevated gravel area for tent camping or sitting.
Things to note if you’re interested in camping at Chippokes:
•the bathhouse is a little dated, but it was always very clean and well maintained during my stay
•the park is rustic and isn’t a KOA or privately owned campground
•campsites fees included 6 people and 2 vehicles
•the campground allows pets if registered prior and this campground does not allow generator use.
•from the campground it is a quick free (car) ferry ride across the James River to Jamestown, Colonial Williamsburg, Busch Gardens and Yorktown.
•the swimming pool was closed during my visit July 2023 and will be closed through the year
•I would recommend coming with a cooler or refrigerator of food if you’re planning to stay as there aren’t many places close by for grocery or food service.
Fossils, Beaches and History
If you’re looking for a fun day trip, something to add to your Historical Triangle vacation or a stop to setup camp that’s outside the bustle of the city Chippokes State Park has a lot to offer. From fossil/ shark tooth hunting, picnicking, beautiful beaches and history you’re bound to find something for everyone to enjoy at Chippokes. The park is very peaceful and even when the campground is fully occupied the spots are roomy enough to still feel connected to nature.
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Thank you for reading! Don’t forget to pin this idea on your vacation board for your next trip inspiration and to check out my other travel posts. If you are a hotel, campground or business and would like me to visit and write a blog for you please contact me at krystle@takeawalkinmyflipflops.com .
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