York River State Park
Discover a unique estuarine park with fossil hunting, scenic trails, fishing, and boating on the York River.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Best for fossil hunting
York River State Park
Best Time
Best for fossil hunting
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover a unique estuarine park with fossil hunting, scenic trails, fishing, and boating on the York River.
"Hunt for ancient shark teeth at Fossil Beach or hike through diverse ecosystems in this beautiful Virginia State Park."
👟 Wear sturdy shoes
Trails to Fossil Beach can be rooty and steep; good footwear is essential.
⏰ Check tide charts
Low tide is ideal for exploring Fossil Beach and finding fossils.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Fossil Beach
Beaver Trail
Hunt for ancient shark teeth and marine fossils along this unique estuarine shoreline. Low tide is your best friend here!
Scenic Hiking Trails
Various trails including Mattaponi Trail
Explore over 40 miles of well-maintained trails through diverse ecosystems, perfect for hiking and biking.
Estuarine Ecology
Visitor Center and shoreline
Discover the unique blend of fresh and saltwater environments, home to diverse wildlife and plant life.
Fishing & Boating
Riverfront and boat ramp
Enjoy fishing for a variety of species or launch your kayak or paddleboard for a serene water experience.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Fossil Hunting Fun
Park Entry & Amenities
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Wear sturdy shoes
Trails to Fossil Beach can be rooty and steep; good footwear is essential.
⏰ Check tide charts
Low tide is ideal for exploring Fossil Beach and finding fossils.
🚗 $5 parking fee
A small fee grants access; consider an annual pass for frequent visits.
🐶 Dog-friendly trails
Leashed dogs are welcome on most trails and can enjoy the river. +3
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Wear sturdy shoes
Trails to Fossil Beach can be rooty and steep; good footwear is essential.
⏰ Check tide charts
Low tide is ideal for exploring Fossil Beach and finding fossils.
🚗 $5 parking fee
A small fee grants access; consider an annual pass for frequent visits.
🐶 Dog-friendly trails
Leashed dogs are welcome on most trails and can enjoy the river. +3
🎒 Pack water & snacks
Stay hydrated and fueled for your adventures on the trails.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about York River State Park's beautiful trails and the unique opportunity to hunt for fossils at Fossil Beach. The park is praised for its dog-friendly atmosphere and excellent fishing spots. While some found the beach muddy, the overall experience is highly recommended for nature lovers and families.
"Great park! We took 3 dogs, and they definitely enjoyed playing in the river and on the beach. The trails are nice, we stayed on the mostly graveled trails. Definitely planning on a return trip!"
Paige Bramhall
"We went for fishing and for the beach, for fishing this park is great we caught 4 big ones!!! It seemed like it had a lot of nice overviews as well but we didn’t get to enjoy the whole park even tho we got there at 9am and left at 7pm. They have really clean bathrooms and parks for children! A lot of trails as well. This park offers 2 beaches (Seining beach & Fossil beach), I was a bit disappointed as I thought the beach would have a lot more sand to rest on but fossil beach had so much mud I’m not sure if it was just because of when we went but I definitely will not go to the beach again I will 100% return for the fishing. Also I was told you can find shark teeth and I was able to see some land crabs & mud crabs, I saw pieces of blue crabs as well. There is an entrance/ parking fee and it was $5 dollars which is 100% worth it! Everyone there was super friendly and gave us all the information we needed!"
Erika Sanchez
"Adventure in the woods…
We visited this park with our friend. This is an ideal place to experience the ecology of the coastal estuary. We explored the Mattaponi trail and Fossil Beach via Beaver trail and backbone trail. The trails we explored were well-maintained, properly marked, and easy to hike. The trails passed through hardwood forest, woodland stream, wooded cliffs and marshes. We had a great time there."
Debashri Manna
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
York River State Park is conveniently located about 11 miles west of Williamsburg, Virginia. It's easily accessible by car, making it a great option for a day trip from the historic city.
Public transportation options directly to the park are limited. Driving is the most common and recommended way to reach the park.
From Williamsburg, take VA-132 W to US-60 W, then turn right onto York River Park Road. The park entrance will be on your left.
Yes, using a GPS or navigation app with the address '9801 York River Park Rd, Williamsburg, VA' will guide you directly to the park entrance.
The closest major airport is Newport News/Williamsburg International Airport (PHF), which is about a 30-40 minute drive from the park. Richmond International Airport (RIC) is another option, about an hour away.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There is a $5 entrance and parking fee per vehicle. You can also purchase an annual Virginia State Parks pass for unlimited access to all state parks.
Yes, you can get free entrance by bringing your REI receipt or by checking out a nature backpack from your local library, which often includes park passes.
The park is generally open from dawn to dusk. The visitor center has specific hours, so it's best to check the official Virginia State Parks website for the most up-to-date information.
No, advance ticket booking is not typically required for general park entry. You pay the entrance fee upon arrival. Special events might require registration.
The visitor center is accessible, and some trails may be suitable for those with mobility challenges. However, trails leading to Fossil Beach can be uneven and steep.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The park offers over 40 miles of trails. The Woodstock Pond Trail is a good starting point, and trails leading to Fossil Beach are popular for fossil hunting. The Mattaponi Trail is also recommended for exploring diverse ecosystems. +3
Absolutely! Fossil Beach is renowned for its fossil deposits, where you can find shark teeth and other ancient marine life. Remember to check the tides for the best hunting conditions. +4
Yes, the park is a great spot for fishing, with opportunities for both freshwater and saltwater angling. Many visitors report successful catches.
Yes, the park has a boat ramp and is ideal for kayaking and paddleboarding, offering a unique perspective of the estuarine environment.
The park's estuarine environment supports diverse wildlife, including various bird species, crabs, and potentially other marine life.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are no restaurants located directly within York River State Park. Visitors typically bring their own food and drinks.
Yes, York River State Park offers picnic shelters and areas, making it a perfect spot for a family picnic amidst nature.
Absolutely! Bringing your own food and drinks is encouraged, especially for picnics. Remember to pack out all your trash to keep the park clean.
Since the park is close to Williamsburg, you'll find numerous dining options in the city, ranging from casual eateries to fine dining establishments.
There is no concession stand or snack bar within the park. It's advisable to bring all your food and beverages with you.
📸 📸 Photography
The shoreline, especially Fossil Beach at low tide, offers unique photographic opportunities. The diverse plant life and wildlife along the trails also make for great shots.
Yes, the park's estuarine environment is home to various birds and other wildlife, providing excellent opportunities for nature photography. Bring a telephoto lens for better shots. +1
The 'golden hours' – shortly after sunrise and before sunset – offer the most beautiful, soft light for landscape and wildlife photography. Midday sun can be harsh.
Drone usage is typically restricted in Virginia State Parks to protect wildlife and ensure visitor safety. Always check the park's specific regulations before flying.
A versatile camera with a good zoom lens is recommended for capturing both landscapes and wildlife. A wide-angle lens is great for scenic vistas.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Kids will be fascinated by the chance to hunt for fossils at Fossil Beach, though the trail requires sturdy shoes and might be challenging for very young children. Many of the trails are well-maintained and offer opportunities to observe nature. Consider shorter, more accessible trails like the Woodstock Pond Trail for younger children.
🐶 Dog Lovers
Ensure your dog is comfortable with hiking, as some trails can be rooty and uneven. Always keep your dog on a leash and be sure to clean up after them to help maintain the park's natural beauty for everyone.
🎣 Anglers and Boaters
Whether you prefer casting a line from the shore or out on the water, the estuarine environment provides a diverse fishing experience. Remember to check local fishing regulations and obtain any necessary licenses before your visit.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring Fossil Beach
The trail to Fossil Beach, often accessed via the Beaver Trail, is described as well-maintained but can be challenging. Visitors note that it's not stroller-friendly due to roots and steep sections. Wearing sturdy hiking shoes is highly recommended, as the terrain can be uneven.
While the promise of fossils is exciting, some visitors have noted that the beach can be muddy, especially depending on the tide and recent weather. Despite this, the experience of searching for fossils and exploring this unique estuarine environment is widely considered rewarding.
Hiking and Trails for Everyone
For a more accessible walk, the Woodstock Pond Trail is a good starting point, described as wide and easy, leading to other trails within the park. This trail is a great option for families or those looking for a less strenuous hike.
Dog owners will be pleased to know that the park is very dog-friendly, with leashed pets welcome on most trails. This makes it an ideal destination for those who love to explore the outdoors with their canine companions.
The Estuarine Environment
The park's visitor center provides valuable insights into the local ecology, often featuring displays of marine life and artifacts found in the area. It's a great place to start your visit to understand the significance of the estuarine habitat.
This environment is also ideal for activities like kayaking and paddleboarding, allowing visitors to quietly glide through the waters and observe the natural surroundings up close. The blend of fresh and saltwater creates a dynamic habitat that changes with the tides and seasons.
Social
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