Discover the Serene and Picturesque Outdoors of Chesapeake, VA

Nestled in the heart of Coastal Virginia lies Chesapeake, a city that perfectly embodies the charm and hospitality of Southern living. But beyond its historic buildings and friendly locals, visitors will find an abundance of natural wonders to explore.

One of the best places to start is at The Great Dismal Swamp National Wildlife Refuge (3100 Desert Rd,), which spans over 112,000 acres across Virginia and North Carolina. This serene oasis is home to countless species of wildlife such as black bears, bobcats, river otters, bald eagles as well as thousands of migratory birds passing through each year. Take a guided kayak tour or hike one the many trails available for interpretive walks led by knowledgeable guides.

Another mustsee destination is Northwest River Park & Campground (1733 Indian Creek Rd,), which provides visitors with opportunities for camping along tranquil waterways filled with paddling adventure canoeing fishing hiking horseback riding disc golf animal viewing bird watching nature photography picnicking playgrounds trail excursions archery exploration outdoor education stargazing adventures seasonal festivals holiday events Disc Golf Course.

For those interested in history and culture should visit Oak Grove Lake Park (409 Byron St.), which features several trails that snake through forests teeming with local flora including various wildflower fields sassafras trees beeches maples hollies oaks dogwoods pines In addition there are multiple monuments showcasing artistry related to both American history Civil War period figures such as General Robert E Lee while still allowing plenty space preservation connectivity nature surrounding it all.

No trip to Chesapeake would be complete without visiting Mount Trashmore Park (310 Edwin Dr.). Once a landfill site turned into an expansive park featuring rolling hills perfect kite flying sledding picnic spot volleyball court skating ramps plus jogging paths benches sculptures gardens celebrate artsand crafts festival held every fall.

As you explore the outdoors of Chesapeake, take note of the natural and scientific facts that exist all around. The city was formed over 35 million years ago when its land was covered by ocean which then receded to form a vast swampy forest filled with wildlife species still visible today at refuge parks. Countless rivers run through this landscape and provide habitats for countless species while shaping the areas unique terrain and creating opportunities for outdoor recreation such as paddling fishing canoeing hiking bird watching stargazing picnicking camping trail running disc golf plus other opportunities throughout greenway system.

But beyond these physical attributes lies something even more special: an authentic connection between people and their environment. Whether its chatting with locals about their favorite hiking trails or learning about how theyve preserved their historic buildings, visitors are sure to feel welcomed into one of Americas most hospitable cities.

Websites:

The Great Dismal Swamp National Wildlife Refuge: https://www.fws.gov/refuge/great_dismal_swamp/

Northwest River Park & Campground: https://www.visitchesapeake.com/listing/northwestriverparkandcampground/1232/

Oak Grove Lake Park:https://www.visitchesapeake.com/listing/oakgrovelakepark/1328/

Mount Trashmore Park : http://www.vbgov.com/government/departments/parksrecreation/parkstrails/cityparks/pages/mounttrashmore.aspx

Twitter accounts:

@GreatDismalNWR

@VisitChesVA