Newport News Park
An 8,000+ acre natural oasis with extensive trails, abundant wildlife, and family-friendly attractions.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Escape heat & humidity
Newport News Park
Best Time
Escape heat & humidity
Highlights
Must-see attractions
An 8,000+ acre natural oasis with extensive trails, abundant wildlife, and family-friendly attractions.
"This is a beautiful, well maintained park with nice shaded trails that kept me cool."
🎯 Bring Insect Repellent
Mosquitoes can be a nuisance, especially in warmer, humid weather.
🗺️ Use a Trail App
Trails aren't always well-marked; AllTrails helps you stay on course.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Discovery Center
Inside Newport News Park
Engaging exhibits and knowledgeable staff make this a hit for all ages, especially grandkids.
Wildlife Encounters
Along trails and water
Spot numerous turtles basking or swimming, and keep an eye out for local fauna.
Extensive Trail System
Throughout the park
Over 11 miles of shaded hiking and biking trails offer challenging routes and scenic views.
Fall-O-Ween Festival
Newport News Park
An annual celebration with vendors, wagon rides, and family-friendly spooky fun.
+1Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Outdoors, But Pack Accordingly
Navigate the Trails Wisely
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Bring Insect Repellent
Mosquitoes can be a nuisance, especially in warmer, humid weather.
🗺️ Use a Trail App
Trails aren't always well-marked; AllTrails helps you stay on course.
🐢 Respect Wildlife
Please do not feed the animals, especially the turtles.
💧 Stay Hydrated
Carry plenty of water, especially during longer hikes or bike rides.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Bring Insect Repellent
Mosquitoes can be a nuisance, especially in warmer, humid weather.
🗺️ Use a Trail App
Trails aren't always well-marked; AllTrails helps you stay on course.
🐢 Respect Wildlife
Please do not feed the animals, especially the turtles.
💧 Stay Hydrated
Carry plenty of water, especially during longer hikes or bike rides.
📸 Perfect Photo Spots
The park offers many scenic locations ideal for photoshoots.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Newport News Park for its vast, shaded trails and abundant wildlife, particularly the turtles. The Discovery Center is a hit with families, and the park offers great opportunities for running and biking. Some find the trails can be confusingly marked, and the heat/humidity can be intense in summer, leading to mosquito issues.
"Planned on going for an easy hike and found their Discovery Center. A nice experience, especially for the grandkids. Friendly and knowledgeable staff.
We then took a nice hike and saw a plethora of turtles that liked to show up for visitors. Even though they had signs up asking not to feed the animals, especially human breads and snacks, there we some who don't listen.
If we lived in the area we would visit often. Wonderful place!"
Jim Nestle
"I've run all over Williamsburg and the Hampton Roads area but for some reason never ventured to this park. This park has nice shaded trails that kept me cool even though it was 90°. There are plenty of parking options and restrooms. I was able to use the trails to run 11.5 challenging miles and I didn't cover everything. This is a beautiful, well maintained park. My only concern is that it is easy to get turned around because the trails are not well marked. I used All Trails to help me stay on course. I will be adding this park to my running rotation!"
Valerie A
"This place is big and has bike trails as well as hiking trails.
The only downside was (for us) the heat and the humidity which makes it a playground for mosquitoes.
I recommend this place but only in the cooler months."
Ray Flyte
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Newport News Park is located at 13560 Jefferson Ave, Newport News, VA 23603. It's easily accessible by car, with ample parking available throughout the park.
Information on public transportation routes to the park is limited. Driving is the most common and convenient way to access Newport News Park.
There are plenty of parking options available throughout the park, making it easy to access different trailheads and facilities.
During special events like Fall-O-Ween, parking may have a fee (e.g., $10 cash only). Regular park access is generally free.
Yes, the park offers bike rentals and boat rentals, allowing you to explore the park's amenities.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
General admission to Newport News Park is typically free. However, special events may have associated costs for activities or parking.
Park hours can vary, especially for specific facilities like the Discovery Center or during events. It's best to check the official Newport News Parks and Recreation website for the most up-to-date information.
For general park entry, advance booking is not usually required. However, for specific events or camping reservations, it's advisable to book ahead.
Newport News Park hosts various events throughout the year, including the popular Fall-O-Ween Festival and other seasonal celebrations.
Yes, picnic shelters are available for rental, which is a great option for gatherings and events. Inquire with Newport News Park and Recreation for details.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
You can enjoy hiking, biking, fishing, disc golf, exploring gardens, visiting the Discovery Center, and attending special events. +1
Yes, the park offers a variety of trails, including some that are more beginner-friendly, alongside more challenging routes.
With its diverse habitats, Newport News Park is a great location for birdwatching, offering opportunities to see various local and migratory species.
Yes, kayaking and paddle boating are popular activities on the park's waterways. Boat rentals may be available.
Restrooms are available throughout the park, ensuring comfort during your visit.
🎫 🏕️ Camping & Accommodations
Yes, Newport News Park offers camping, including RV camping and tent sites. It's a popular spot for those looking to stay overnight.
Camping reservations can typically be made through the Newport News Park and Recreation department or their online booking system.
Yes, there are several hotels located near Newport News Park, offering convenient accommodation options for visitors.
Camping at Newport News Park provides a natural setting with access to park amenities. It's a great way to immerse yourself in the outdoors.
Newport News Park has RV camping facilities, allowing visitors to park and stay with their recreational vehicles.
📸 📸 Photography
The park's natural landscapes, wildlife (like turtles), and scenic trails offer numerous picturesque opportunities for photographers.
Absolutely! The abundance of turtles and other natural elements makes it a prime location for capturing wildlife in their habitat.
Yes, visitors are encouraged to bring their cameras to capture the beauty of Newport News Park.
Generally, personal photography is allowed. However, commercial photography or drone usage might require permits, so it's best to check park regulations.
The park's shaded trails offer diffused light, ideal for avoiding harsh shadows. Early morning and late afternoon provide beautiful golden hour lighting.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
During the fall, the Fall-O-Ween Festival is a must-attend event, providing a safe and fun environment with activities like wagon rides and a pumpkin patch.
+1 Remember to pack snacks and drinks, and consider bringing a stroller or carrier for very young children, as the park is quite large. Insect repellent is also a good idea, especially during warmer months. 🏃♀️ Runners and Fitness Enthusiasts
It's highly recommended to use a navigation app like AllTrails, as some trails may not be clearly marked, helping you stay on your intended path.
🏕️ Campers and RV Travelers
Reservations for camping are generally recommended, especially during peak seasons or for specific sites. You can typically book through the Newport News Park and Recreation department.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Trails of Newport News Park
While the trails are beautiful and well-maintained, a common piece of advice from park-goers is that they can be easy to get turned around on due to inconsistent marking. To ensure a smooth experience, many recommend utilizing navigation apps like AllTrails to stay on course. This is particularly helpful for longer runs or hikes where exploring multiple interconnected paths is desired.
For those seeking a more active adventure, the park also features dedicated bike trails and offers bike rentals. Whether you're looking for a leisurely ride or a more strenuous cycling workout, Newport News Park provides ample opportunities to explore its natural beauty on two wheels.
Wildlife and Nature at Newport News Park
Beyond turtles, the park's extensive acreage supports a rich ecosystem, making it a great spot for observing various forms of flora and fauna. While the natural beauty is a major draw, visitors are reminded to be mindful of the environment. Signs often request that visitors refrain from feeding the animals, particularly with human food, to maintain their natural diet and health.
The park's natural setting also makes it a prime location for photography, with many visitors noting the scenic beauty and opportunities to capture wildlife in their natural habitat. The diverse plant life and tranquil water features contribute to a picturesque environment, perfect for both casual snapshots and dedicated nature photography.
Seasonal Events and Activities
+2Beyond the fall festivities, the park often hosts other special events throughout the year, catering to various interests. These can range from community gatherings and art activities to outdoor celebrations, providing visitors with unique opportunities to experience the park in different ways. Checking the Newport News Parks and Recreation schedule is recommended to stay informed about upcoming events.
For those looking for year-round outdoor recreation, the park's amenities like disc golf courses, boat ramps, and extensive trail systems are always available. Whether you're visiting for a specific event or just a day of outdoor activity, Newport News Park offers a dynamic and engaging experience.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit