Charles City County
Eco-Tourism Infrastructure Inventory
Introduction
As part of the 5-year study on the natural resources present in the Lower Chickahominy watershed (LCW), PlanRVA produced this story map to display existing eco-tourism infrastructure in the watershed and report the findings. The LCW consists of three localities: James City County, New Kent County, and Charles City County. Each county in the watershed is boasting with some of the most unique and valuable natural resources in the state of Virginia.
The study area consists of healthy streams, forested lands, and open spaces that are home to the native flora and fauna of the tidal fresh zone of coastal Virginia. Given these distinctive attributes and the county's prime location in the region, the rural area is experiencing suburban development pressure in Virginia's coastal plain. The effort of this study, funded by the Virginia Coastal Zone Management Program (CZM), aims to identify and establish an overarching vision for land use, land conservation, and sustainable economic priorities. Furthermore, the study promotes the development of various strategic approaches to harnessing both the ecological and economic value in the watershed.
The following story map provides a detailed eco-tourism infrastructure inventory for Charles City County. This eco-tourism infrastructure inventory will highlight the existing public access sites that contribute to the eco-tourism industry. The inventory allows PlanRVA staff and other project partners to pinpoint opportunities for growth to increase both the ecological and economic value in the county.
This project, Task # 93.01 was funded by the Virginia Coastal Zone Management Program led by the Virginia Department of Environmental Quality through Grant FY18 #NA18NOS4190152 of the US Department of Commerce, National Oceanic, and Atmospheric Administration, under the Coastal Zone Management Act of 1972, as amended. The views expressed herein are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the views of the US Department of Commerce, NOAA, or any of its subagencies.
Project Overview
How We Define Public Access
For the purposes of this project, public access includes locations where people can enter or touch the water such as boat ramps, paddling craft put-ins, and docks or marinas. Additionally, it includes locations where people can view waterways and interact with wetland or riparian areas, such as trails near waterways or boardwalks.
The following eco-tourism infrastructure inventory will include sites open and free for the public to utilize, as well as sites that may have fees or membership requirements for access. Private sites include marinas, golf courses, boat clubs, breweries, wineries, restaurants, or other tourist attractions. PlanRVA staff carefully selected each site to adequately represent the county's existing eco-tourism infrastructure.
What Is Eco-Tourism Infrastructure?
For the purposes of this project, eco-tourism infrastructure includes those elements of physical or mapped infrastructure that support the eco-tourism industry :
- Bike and pedestrian infrastructure
- Interpretive signage, to include location and content
- Land trails
- Location or Cultural Heritage information signage
- Parking
- Public and private access to waterways
- Public parks (state and local) and other publicly owned lands open to the public, such as a wildlife management areas or state forests
- Water trails
It is important to note that while easements and other conserved lands are displayed on the map document, not all of these lands are open to the public. However, they do support eco-tourism by expanding habitat, maintaining view sheds and rural character, etc. Additionally, many of the sites displayed on the inventory map are not free to the public, but require fees, memberships, or reservations. All sites have been reviewed by county officials and verified as beneficial to the eco-tourism industry.
Background
Location and Orientation
Charles City County is situated just east of Richmond, with Interstate 64 connecting it to Hampton Roads. State Route 5 travels east to west throughout the County, connecting it to Richmond and Williamsburg. This scenic route runs parallel to the Virginia Capital Trail, a 52 mile hiking and biking path that connects Richmond to Williamsburg. As part of the Richmond Metropolitan Statistical Area (MSA), as well as its convenient location, Charles City County is subject to development projects.
The county is surrounded by natural beauty that adds to the desirability to live, work, and visit in the area. The James River runs along the southern border and to the east is the Chickahominy River. Given the natural assets available in the county, there are a variety of outdoor recreational activities available to residents and visitors alike. Outdoor recreational activities include fishing, hunting, mountain biking trails, walking trails, and boat launches. One major recreational attributes available to the public is the Virginia Capital Trail . The 8-mile portion of the paved biking and walking trail runs west-to-east entirely through the entire county.
Furthermore, the county is rich in history and cultural assets. Many African-American historical landmarks are located throughout the county and highlight the slave's journey to freedom. Additionally, the county is home to the Chickahominy Indian Tribe . Before English colonists arrived, the tribal population lived in villages along the Chickahominy River. The treaty of 1646 displaced the Chickahominy to the Pamunkey Neck area of Virginia. The continued growth of English settlements crowded out the Chickahominy; they eventually settled in an area called Chickahominy Ridge a few miles from a 1607 tribal village site. The tribe received state recognition in 1983 and federal recognition in 2018.
Overall, Charles City County has a variety of unique natural and cultural assets. The county offers visitors a small town atmosphere, rich in history and a multitude of natural assets. Its convenient location and connection to surrounding urban areas makes it a desirable place to live or visit.
Existing Conditions
Eco-Tourism Infrastructure Inventory Map
As part of the Lower Chickahominy Watershed Project (LCWP), all existing public access sites that contribute to the eco-tourism industry in the three localities that make up the LCW were inventoried. The inventory of existing eco-tourism infrastructure aims to highlight any gaps or room for improvement in the watershed. Specifically, the findings may help to guide development decisions in a way that promotes economic growth while also protecting the LCW's unique ecological attributes. The interactive map on the right displays the existing sites inventoried for Charles City County, Virginia.
The following information provides further context for each site in Charles City County, as well as external resources available to the public. Following the inventory, PlanRVA staff will provide recommendations for new and improved eco-tourism attractions to enhance the local economy.
Parks & Trails
Inventory of parks and trails in James City County that fit the LCWP's definition of water and public access. The following sites include parks and trails that are free to the public and those that require entrance or membership fees upon entrance. Each location promotes and supports the eco-tourism industry in the county.
The Chickahominy Wildlife Management Area is situated on the eastern shores of the Chickahominy River. Consisting of mainly woodlands, the management area provides a wide variety of wildlife habitats. The area’s 5,217 acres of land provides visitors with a wide range of outdoor recreational activities including hunting, fishing, wildlife viewing, boat access, horseback riding, camping, and hiking.
On-Site Amenities:
- ADA accessible trails
- Hiking trails
- Interpretive signage
- Mountain biking trails
- Parking
- Picnic areas
- Playground
- Restrooms
- Wildlife viewing
For picture source and more information about the Chickahominy Wildlife Management Area please click here .
Don’t let the size of this park fool you, this 24-acre site provides visitors with outdoor recreational activities, wildlife viewing, and historical context. Lawrence Lewis, Jr. Park offers a boat ramp, swamp boardwalk, wooded trails, and picnic area. While visiting there is a chance you’ll spot wintering bald eagles or a great blue heron rookery.
On-Site Amenities:
- ADA accessible trails
- Hiking trails
- Interpretive signage
- Mountain biking trails
- Parking
- Picnic areas
- Playground
- Restrooms
- Wildlife viewing
For picture source and more information about Lawrence Lewis, Jr. Park please click here .
Located near Route 5, this fish hatchery offers boat and fishing access to visitors. Enjoying the beautiful scenery on the Birding and Wildlife trail, as well as further information at the Visitor Center.
On-Site Amenities:
- ADA accessible trails
- Boat access
- Fishing
- Hiking trails
- Interpretive signage
- Mountain biking trails
- Parking
- Picnic areas
- Playground
- Restrooms
- Wildlife viewing
The Virginia Capital Trail is a 52-mile bike and pedestrian trail, which connects Richmond and Williamsburg. Since October 2015, the Capital Trail runs through the City of Richmond, Henrico County, Charles City County, and James City County. Since the trail runs through several locations, it offers visitors various stopping points to stay, shop, and eat. The creation of the trail has increased tourism and brought economic value to the localities it runs through.
Historical & Educational
Inventory of the various educational and historical sites in the Charles City County that fit the LCWP's definition of water and public access. The following sites include locations that are free to the public and those that may require entrance or membership fees upon entrance. Each location promotes and supports the eco-tourism industry in the county.
Fort Pocahontas is located on the James River, situated between the City of Richmond and Hampton Roads. This historical landmark is on the Freedom’s Jubilee list of sites depicting an African American journey in Charles City County. Specifically, this earthen Civil War fort built by Union soldiers. A historical marker is located on Route 5 at Sturgeon Point Road, which provides context for the site. There is an annual reenactment of the historical battle, as well as guided tours. Currently, the site can be rented out for weddings or filmings.
On-Site Amenities:
- ADA Accessible
- Interpretive signage
- Parking
- Restrooms
Another historical landmark on the Freedom’s Jubilee list is the Liberty Baptist Church. Established in 1869 and founded by freedmen after the Civil War.
On-Site Amenities:
- ADA Accessible
For picture source and more information about the Liberty Baptist Church please click here .
Shirley Plantation is a National Historic Landmark and the country’s oldest active farm. The plantation provides tours where visitors will learn about the state of Virginia’s first plantation and the history of the Indigenous, enslaved, and indentured people once on the land.
On-Site Amenities:
- Concessions
- Parking
- Picnic area
- Restrooms
- Walking trails
For picture source and more information about Shirley Plantation please click here .
Located on the north bank of the James River, Westover Plantation was established in 1730. A designated National Historic Landmark, the plantation is open for guided tours by request. Additionally, the grounds are often rented for weddings or other events.
On-Site Amenities:
- Parking
- Picnic area
- Restrooms
- Walking trails
This historical landmark located near Williamsburg is also a Bed and Breakfast open to guests. This landmark offers visitors with guided tours to learn about the plantation’s history and available event space.
On-Site Amenities:
- Dining
- Lodging
- Parking
- Picnic area
- Restrooms
Built in 1801, this National Historic Landmark offers visitors with lodging, house and garden tours, and a variety of amenities for guests.
On-Site Amenities:
- Dining
- Interpretive signage
- Lodging
- Parking
- Picnic area
- Walking trails
For picture source and more information about North Bend Plantation please click here .
Located just off Route 5, Sherwood Forest Plantation offers self-guided grounds tours, as well as guided house tours.
On-Site Amenities:
- Parking
- Picnic areas
- Restrooms
- Walking trails
One of America's first plantations Berkley Plantation is located on the banks of the James River on Route 5. It has both gardens and grounds tours available to visitors. They also have an annual first Thanksgiving reenactment that makes them unique.
On-Site Amenities:
Restaurants & Wineries
Inventory of the breweries, wineries, and restaurants in Charles City County that fit the LCWP's definition of water and public access. The sites listed below include locations that are open to the public, but require payment for goods and services. Each location promotes and supports the eco-tourism industry in the county.
Located just 30 minutes southeast of the city of Richmond, this beautiful and historic vineyard is located on the James River. Upper Shirley neighbors the Shirley Plantation, which is a national historic landmark with the country’s oldest working farm. The vineyard offers visitors with wine, food, and event space.
On-Site Amenities:
- ADA Accessible
- Food and beverage sales
- Parking
- Picnic areas
For picture source and more information about Upper Shirley Vineyard please click here .
The Blue Heron is located just north of the Chickahominy Wildlife Management Area and next to the River’s Rest Marina and Resort on the beautiful Chickahominy River. Serving fresh seafood and amazing views, the Blue Heron offers boaters a place to dock and relax.
On-Site Amenities:
- ADA Accessible
- Boat access
- Food and beverage sales
- Parking
- Restrooms
For picture source and more information about the Blue Heron please click here .
Private Access Points
Inventory of the various private access sites in Charles City County that fit the LCWP's definition of water access. The sites listed below include locations that are open to the public, but require fees or memberships. Each location promotes and supports the eco-tourism industry in the county. The private access points in Charles City County include:
Situated between Richmond and Newport News, this riverfront resort offers visitors with a marine, dining, and lodging. Located on the property is the Blue Heron Restaurant that serves a full menu and beverages. In 2021, the resort will be expanding and adding campgrounds for visitors.
On-Site Amenities:
- Restroom
- Lodging/camping
- Boat access
- Dining
- Fishing
For picture source and more information about River's Rest Marina and Resort please click here .
This quiet retreat cottage is located on the beautiful Chickahominy river. The cottage is available for long term rentals and is near boating access and rentals, as well as across the river from Chickahominy Riverfront Park.
On-Site Amenities:
- ADA Accessible
- Restroom
- Lodging
For picture source and more information about Primrose Cottage at Two Rivers please click here .
Virginia Bird & Wildlife Trail (VBWT) Sites
The Virginia Bird and Wildlife Trail (VBWT) provides visitors with access to some of the best locations to view birds, nature, and other wildlife species. With over 600 designated viewing sites, the VBWT highlights the beautiful and unique attributes Virginia has to offer. Portions of the Plantation Loop are located in Charles City County.
Plantation Loop: The Plantation Loop consists of 11 different sites. The sites highlight many of Virginia's historical plantations, as well as provides visitors with access to forested areas, bodies of water, and wildlife viewing. One of these sites is in James City County at the Chickahominy Riverfront Park.
For picture source and more information about the Plantation Loop please click here.
Interpretive Signage
Interpretive signage is a crucial contributor to the eco-tourism industry and is included in this inventory. Typically, interpretive signage is located at various tourist attractions or historical sites and provides context that connect visitors to the space. For example, interpretive signage may be located at a specific location on the river to explain an important event in history that took place there. Visitors are provided with a deeper sense of connection to the space. The following inventory of interpretive signage are located at various parks, trails, and historical sites in Charles City County.
Interpretive signage mapped are located at the following locations:
- Chickahominy Wildlife Management Area
- Fort Pocahontas
- Lawrence Lewis, Jr. Park
- North Bend Plantation
- Shirley Plantation
- U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Harrison Lake National Hatchery
Conclusion
Charles City County in Virginia is unique and boasting with many natural assets. After examining and inventorying the existing eco-tourism infrastructure, it became clear where the county is currently capitalizing on the available natural assets and where there may be room for improvement. Throughout the progression of the Lower Chickahominy Watershed Project (LCWP), PlanRVA and other project partners may refer back to this StoryMap while making recommendations. Overall, Charles City County is rich in history, surrounded by natural beauty and subject to potential development.
The LCWP aims to support this growth in a way that protects the cultural and natural assets available in the counties that make up the watershed. The potential development opportunities will be analyzed further as the project progresses.
