Northwest River Park

Located near the VA/NC line in Chesapeake, Northwest River Park offers miles of hiking, biking, and horse trails, as well as boat rentals, disc golf, and camping. The main gravel trail and the Deer Island trail are both very family friendly.  They run parallel to one another, and each offers a 2.5 mi out-and-back hike to the river (or take one out and the other back to create a loop). The main gravel trail is wider and better maintained to offer vehicle access to the river. Deer Island is more rugged and can get muddy, but is more secluded and offers better chances to view wildlife. There are also two large bridges on the Deer Island route, which are always fun for kids. Both trails are 3-wheel stroller friendly. Other trails around the park are longer and more rugged, and best for carrier only hikes or older kids. The front of the park is home to a ranger station, the main trailhead, a stocked lake, boat rentals, camping, and a Little Free Library. Toward the far end of the park, out the last parking lot, is a disc golf course, playground, and small amphitheater. Mosquitoes and ticks make most of the trails in this park inhospitable in the summer, but it is a lovely place to hike in the cooler months.