Chesapeake, Virginia, is a beautiful part of the United States known for its scenery. If you’re planning a trip to the area, take advantage of this by visiting parks and arboretums in the area and experience this beauty for yourself. Here are several great options to do just that.
Oak Grove Lake Park
Oak Grove Lake Park in Chesapeake has many fun activities for visitors to take part in. It has a series of walking and hiking trails to follow with the family. Many choose to walk their dogs here, too. If you enjoy running or fishing, Oak Grove Lake is the place for both. The park is off the beaten path and away from the hustle and bustle of city life, giving people much-needed peace and quiet. Other amenities include a small beach and a playground for children.
Dismal Swamp Canal Trail
The Dismal Swamp Canal Trail was once part of Virginia State Route 17. Today it is a trail people use to walk, bike, hike, and run along in Chesapeake. It runs for 8.3 miles to the Dismal Swamp Canal. It’s also a place for boating. Every year, the park hosts Paddle for the Border in the spring. People explore the canal trail using kayaks and canoes and get together for a picnic lunch at the end.
The Dismal Swamp Canal also includes a wildlife refuge where many species live or come to rest. Migratory birds tend to stop here on their way to their destination to rest up. It’s also an ideal spot for horseback riding because the trail is flat and linear. Kayakers and boaters can launch their craft using the nearby boat ramp.
The Chesapeake Arboretum
Known as “Nature’s Classroom,” the Chesapeake Arboretum is a 48-acre site in Chesapeake dedicated to teaching about and preserving nature. It promotes horticultural and environmental awareness through research, displays, and education. The arboretum features a trail system that walks visitors through a hardwood forest featuring a number of plants and trees. The Arboretum is home to Lake Hughes which spans 3 acres. Use caution when visiting during the summer months, and make sure to pack bug spray to keep the mosquitoes away during your exploration.
Hickory Ridge Farm
Nothing says connecting with nature better than picking produce in the summertime. You can do just that at Hickory Ridge Farm, a family run place in Chesapeake. The 18-acre farm offers strawberry picking in May and summer produce from June to August. There’s also pumpkin picking in the fall. It’s a wonderful place to go if you’re visiting the area or are just looking for an activity to do with the kids.
The cost of picking fresh produce in the summer is relatively low and it teaches kids how fruits and vegetables originate. Plus, you can make delicious treats like pies and jams with what you pick.
Connecting with nature isn’t always easy given how hectic day-to-day living is, even during the summer. Whether you need to plan a road trip or have to carve out time as a local to visit Chesapeake, the effort is well worth it. The city is full of beautiful parks and other natural sites that come alive in summer with plenty of activities for individuals and families.
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