Fun "Findings" Along the James River

by Anna Salzberg, JRA's Outreach Intern

Working for the James River Association and the National Park Service along the Lower James River segment of the Captain John Smith National Historic Water Trail (CAJO) Conceptual Plan has allowed me to visit some truly beautiful places that are currently accessible for hiking, wildlife viewing, and/or access for kayaks/canoes. I have included some of my favorite “findings” below.

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Kayak/canoe launch at Windsor Castle

Windsor Castle is a beautiful park area in Isle of Wight County that even as a native Virginian, I had never visited before. This site is a former plantation and now a public park in Smithfield, Virginia. It dates to a land grant of 1,450 acres by the King of England to Arthur Smith in 1637. The 46 acres immediately surrounding the manor house are protected by an historic easement controlled by the state of Virginia. There are walking trails, a fishing pier, and the canoe/kayak launch is very accessible and modern. http://www.windsorcastlepark.org/

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View of Kittiewan Creek
from Kittiewan Plantation

Kittiewan Plantation in Charles City County, VA was one of my favorite site visits due to the beautiful views of Kittiewan Creek and the James River downstream. This site has much to offer in terms of archeological significance and Virginia history. This plantation is currently open to the public, but mainly by appointment. There is an access area for canoe/kayak launch for those interested in experiencing the area by water. There is much to experience here in terms of wildlife, vegetation and scenery. http://www.kittiewanplantation.org/

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Beach located at Fort Boykin

Fort Boykin in Isle of Wight County, VA is a beautiful park with walking trails, areas to hold special events, and beautiful views of the James River; including a beach where people can lounge or get in the water during warm seasonal months. Fort Boykin has been a part of American history since 1623!http://www.virginia.org/Listings/HistoricSites/FortBoykinHistoricPark/

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Wooden bridge that
connects to the main park

Fort Huger in Isle of Wight County, VA is a truly historic fort rich in Captain John Smith and Native American history. A beautiful wooden walking path and bridge takes you to the main park where one can see the Ghost Fleet on the James River! During warmer months, there is a person conducting interpretive education in the park area. http://www.visitsmithfieldisleofwight.com/historicforthuger.php

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Jaw and teeth deer
remains found at B&C area

Brown and Williamson Conservation Area is managed by the Chesterfield County Parks and Recreation along with the Friends of Chesterfield’s Riverfront. Mark Battista, a Naturalist with the Chesterfield County Parks and Recreation holds scheduled hikes of the conservation area, by reservation only, as the site is not currently accessible to the general public. Mark is a truly knowledgeable guide with the type of enthusiasm that inspires you to look beyond the forest floor and trees to uncover nature’s treasures! http://www.chesterfield.gov/Parks.aspx?id=6442454792