Shared by Jenna Dayton, as Guest Blogger.

Powhatan State Park is one of Virginia’s newer State Parks that opened in July of 2013. Park amenities are growing every day, there is something new coming up around every corner. If you aren't sure what you want to do yet, then check out this list of the top five activities that visitors can enjoy in the park.

TOP FIVE THINGS TO DO AT POWHATAN STATE PARK 

1. Geocaching - Get Lost!

Geocaching with Park Interpreters is a great way to learn basic skills

Geocaching is a high tech treasure hunt where you use the coordinates on a GPS to find a cache. If you have ever wanted to learn how to navigate using a GPS system, Powhatan State Park has GPS units available to use, or you can simply use the GPS in your smartphone. They have several small containers with a log book hidden throughout the park. Participants will learn all they need to know to find these caches, and can even leave a trinket inside to leave their mark on the trail, if they so choose. After working with the park interpreters, participants will become modern-day treasure hunter.

 

2. Hiking on the Gold Dust Trail

Take a rest at the end of Gold Dust Trail and enjoy the view 

Powhatan State Park has around eight miles of beautiful hiking and biking trails, which around seven are also equestrian accessible. Many of the park visitors’ favorite trail is the Gold Dust Trail. This trail is only about .8 miles and is considered moderate difficulty. The real reward is the beauty of the trail. The walk is shaded, and the path is surrounded by beautiful flora. At the end, guests can either have a quick look at the river and turn around, or hop right onto River Trail. As you can tell by the name, it follows along the side of the river, but it well shaded and offers a beautiful view of the James River the entire way.

3. Canoeing the James River

Canoeing on the James River is the favorite activity among many visitors

There are 2.5 miles of the James River within the park and three different canoe slide launches for access to the river. Boats that must be launched from trailers are not permitted on these slides. The different canoe launches allow guests to customize how long they want their float to be. If the length within the park is not long enough, Maidens Landing is just five miles away from the first boat launch. This section of the James can be smooth and quiet, perfect for an enjoyable and relaxing trip.

This park also has offers guided canoe trips, as weather permits, to Maidens Landing. They provide canoes, life preserves, and a shuttle back to your car. You may want to bring some sun screen and a bottled water. This program is perfect for first timers because they will teach you everything you need to know. Check out some of their programs that involve the canoeing on the James River by clicking here.

4. Birding on the Turkey Trail

You never know what bird you might see while on Turkey Trail 

Turkey Trail is 1.24 miles long and in a large open field, perfect for birding. While on this trail, visitors can see an array of birds native to Virginia. So, don’t forget your binoculars and maybe bring along a bird guide book too. If you have a smartphone you can also use the Merlin Bird ID app to help identify it on the spot.

5. Camping in the Campground and Yurts

Enjoy the new campsites at Powhatan State Park

Until earlier this year, Powhatan State Park only offered canoe-in primitive camping. Although some may enjoy the simplicity of not having running water or electricity, it is not for everyone. Those who like having more amenities will be glad to know that the new campground has more things that you may need. This includes, but is not limited to: running water in the bathhouses, electrical hookups at each site, and RV and Camper accessible sites.

Yurts

Another new addition to Powhatan State Park are the yurts available to rent. These shelters are considered a cross between a cabin and a tent. They do not have electricity or water of its own but there is a common use water spigot and guests use the campground bathhouse. Each yurt can comfortably sleep 3 people and has a large wooden deck, picnic table, and a fire-ring. Click here to find out more about the different styles of camping offered at Powhatan State Park.

These cozy yurts are perfect for when you want a step up from a tent

Enjoy reading a book while sitting on this large deck 

To learn more about Powhatan State Park, visit the park's webpage or call (804) 598-7148. For camping reservations call 800-933-7275 or check availability and reserve online here.