I know this is the Holiday Season and many of us are enjoying office parties, light displays, and other social gatherings. We are also probably shopping and making preparations for the jolly fat man to slide down our chimneys with gifts for all. Christmas and New Year’s Day are times where family and friends gather in celebration, love, and hope for peace. 

We at York River State Park are certainly in step with these experiences. Our Friends of York River State Park just had another fun-filled Jingle Bark in the Park where dogs and their owners took photos and hiked with St. Nicholas. First Day Hikes have grown at our park from a handful of guests to a great crowd of friends walking in the New Year.

River clouds and ducks

A special gift

During winter, we offer another precious gift that sometimes gets overlooked in the mad rush of the holidays; solitude.

 A raft of ruddy ducks swimming just beyond the shoreline does not need jingle bells to uplift the spirits.  The only sound needed is from the waves gently rolling over the fallen trees and cord grass banks. 

The river horizon makes no demands on anyone to celebrate or feel any emotion. Like a friend willing to listen, allows one to rest the mind and be still. 

With all that goes on in our world, such a friend and gift is needed now more than ever.

Quiet on land and water

And after the decorations are boxed up until next November, peaceful winter scenes of York River State Park will remain open from 8 a.m. to dusk. 

Yes, we will have a program or two in January and February for those who wish to participate. The MLK Jr Day 3 Rivers & 3 Peoples Hike, Taskinas Trek, Frozen Fossil Frenzy, and Tyke Hike/Great Backyard Bird Count are well attended (as the weather co-operates).

But for those who want nothing more than time in solitude, come on over. We will always have a place for you.

Sharing solitude

Start out on the right foot

Join us for our First Day Hike on January 1, 2017, come as a group or solo, you are always welcome. As an added incentive there is no fee to enter the park on January 1.

We have a special hike to a hidden gem in the park planned, or you can skip the guided hike and create your own experience while you explore the park. Details about the New Year Challenge and Photo Contest can be found here (yes, there are even some great prizes).

Directions

Directions to York River State Park: From I-64, take the Croaker Exit 231B. Go north on Route 607 (Croaker Rd.) for one mile, then right on Route 606 (Riverview Rd.) about one and a half miles to the park entrance. Take a left turn into the park.