State Parks and National Parks

Belle Isle State Park

One of the newest parks to join the Virginia state parks system, Belle Isle features a wide variety of tidal wetlands interspersed with upland forest and farmland.

Once the summer home of the Powhattan tribe, this fertile land along the Rappahannock River has been cultivated since colonial plantation owners arrived in 1692.

The park provides excellent saltwater fishing at Deep Creek and the Rappahannock River.

The diversity of the habitat nurtures a variety of wildlife, including blue crabs, wild turkey, osprey and bald eagle.

Belle Isle State Park is open daily, year-round, offering hiking (some trails are wheelchair accessible), biking, picnicking, fishing from a pier and boat launching. Motor boats, bicycles and canoes are available to rent.

Guided canoe trips are available during the summer by reservation only. A park office operates at varying hours, so call before visiting.

The Bel Air Mansion, built in 1942 to resemble a Colonial Williamsburg house, is situated on park lands. The Bel Air Mansion and Bel Air Guest House are available for overnight rentals.

Group camping is allowed by special use permit.

Photo credits in order: Courtesy of Virginia Department of Conservation & Recreation.