Description
The 2,531 acres of York River State Park offer upland forests, riparian thickets, marshy creeks, brackish inlets, a pond, and open fields. With so many habitats close at hand, it is not surprising that birders have recorded 70 species in a morning’s outing. There are a number of trails throughout the park, though birders seem to favor the Taskinas Creek Trail, which offers a glimpse at the greatest diversity of habitats, including estuaries, bottomland marsh and hardwoods, as well as, mixed deciduous and pine forests. Other trails recommended by birders include the Backbone Trail, Woodstock Pond Trail, and Majestic Oak Trail. A variety of dragonflies and damselflies may be seen in the wetlands and butterflies are plentiful. During winter, diving ducks often congregate on the York River behind the visitor’s center. Kayaks and canoes are available for rental seasonally, allowing for exploration by water.
Directions
Physical Address: 9801 York River Park Rd., Williamsburg, VA 23188.
From I-64, take the Croaker Exit (231B). Travel north on Rt. 607 for 1.0 miles, then right on Rt. 606/ Riverview Rd. for about 1.5 miles to the park entrance. Turn left into the park.
Location & Directions
View on Google Maps
Site Information
Birds Recently Seen at York River State Park (as reported to eBird)
- Mourning Dove
- Yellow-billed Cuckoo
- Laughing Gull
- Royal Tern
- Double-crested Cormorant
- Great Blue Heron
- Turkey Vulture
- Osprey
- Red-shouldered Hawk
- Belted Kingfisher
Seasonal Bird Observations
Facilities
- Visitor/Nature Center
- Bike Trails
- Fee
- Accessible
- Hiking Trails
- Information
- Interpretive Nature Program
- Interpretive Trail
- Parking
- Picnic
- Restrooms
- Observation Platform
- Historical Site
- Beach
FAQs
Passenger Vehicle Parking and Admission Fees
| Park Name | Standard | Weekends Apr-Oct* |
|---|
| Westmoreland | $7 | $10 |
| Widewater | $7 | $10 |
| Wilderness Road | $5 | $5 |
| York River | $5 | $5 |
43 more rowsFeb 27, 2024
Answer: Saltier water moves up the river at high tide and fresher water moves seaward at low tide. Water with salinity of about 22 ppt moves from the mouth of the river to beyond Point 1 when the tide comes in. The area from Point 1 to Point 3 ranges from about 22 to 12 ppt.
Do you have to pay for Virginia state parks? ›
Basic information. Nearly all Virginia State Parks charge a per car parking fee for entrance. Two parks charge a per person fee: Natural Bridge and Southwest Virginia Museum state parks.
What is the history of York River State Park? ›
HISTORY. York River State Park takes its name from the river along its border, which is formed by the joining of the Pamunkey and Mattaponi rivers at West Point, 10 miles upriver from the park. Croaker Landing, found within the park, is an archeological site included in the National Register of Historic Places.
How much does it cost to see the natural bridge? ›
Entry to Natural Bridge State Park
The park and trail store is open daily from 9 am to dusk, while the Visitor Center is open from 10 am – 6 pm, weather permitting. Entrance is $9 per person 13 years and older and $6 per person 6-12, with those younger than six being free.
Are NY state parks still free? ›
Most New York State Parks charge a vehicle use fee between $6 and $10 dollars for day use. Parks may also charge additional fees for such amenities as pools and picnic shelter reservations. Historic sites generally charge an admission fee between $1 and $6.
Does Virginia State Parks offer senior discounts? ›
The Naturally Yours Passport is the option in Virginia. This pass is $85, and senior state parks passes are available for only $40. Both passes give visitors free parking and admission to all Virginia state parks for a full year.
What is the most popular state park in Virginia? ›
A registered Natural Landmark, First Landing is the most visited state park in Virginia and contains one of the most endangered habitat types in the world - the maritime forest.
Can you carry in state parks in Virginia? ›
Can you carry a concealed firearm in state/national parks, state/national forests and Wildlife Management Areas in Virginia? Yes, with a valid concealed carry permit.
What is the York River known for? ›
The York River is known for its rare and delicate environment, where freshwater and saltwater meet to create a habitat rich in marine and plant life. The York River watershed contains more than 250 species of fish, 190 species of birds, 50 species of mammals, 36 species of reptiles, and 26 species of amphibians.
The 2,531 acres of York River State Park offer upland forests, riparian thickets, marshy creeks, brackish inlets, a pond, and open fields.
What city is located on the York River? ›
Located along the river are the communities of West Point, Allmondsville, Gloucester Point, Yorktown, and numerous small villages. The George P. Coleman Memorial Bridge spans the York River between Yorktown and Gloucester Point.
