Belle Isle State Park

With 842 acres, which includes seven miles of shoreline on the Rappahannock River and access to Mulberry and Deep creeks, Belle Isle State Park has plenty of room for guests to explore the great outdoors of beautiful Virginia. The park has tidal wetlands, farmland, and upland forests. With plenty to do and beautiful views, guests can find something for everyone to enjoy.

Wildlife that calls the park home includes many kinds of predatory birds, such as blue herons, hawks, bald eagles, and osprey. Other animals found in the park include white-tailed deer, turkeys, groundhogs, rabbits, moles, squirrels, and other reptiles and amphibians. The number and variety of wildlife make Belle Isle State Park a wonderful place for outdoor environmental education.

The park offers camping, picnicking, hiking, biking, horseback riding, boating, and more. For guests with children, the park has a playground and educational programs. You can also rent canoes, kayaks, or bicycles if you did not bring your own.

For overnight guests, the park has Bel Air Overnight Area and camping. Campsites include primitive sites and those with full hookups. Full-service camping season runs from the last Friday in March to the first Monday in December. Primitive campsites are available year-round. For cabin rentals, if you bring your pet, there is a fee per night per pet.

In Virginia state parks, dogs are allowed in all campgrounds, cottages, and cabins. Bringing your dog to the campground is free, but as with any state park or recreation area, always be respectful of posted rules, signs, and other park guests. Be sure to bring some poop bags to clean up after Fido. If you go hiking with your dog, remember to bring enough water for yourself and your pet.

You can reserve a spot on the website or by calling the park office. They are open from sunrise to sunset every day. Daily admission fees start at $4 for Virginia residents. If you are in the Richmond or DC area and looking for a beautiful place to get out and spend an afternoon or a weekend with family and furry friends, stop by Belle Isle State Park.