Just over 20-minutes south of Richmond in Chesterfield County, Pocahontas State Park is the ultimate experience for residents of Central Virginia looking to explore nature without a long drive.
This visitors guide will walk you through everything you need to know to plan a trip to Pochahontas State Park, whether you’re a local to the area or just passing through.
[Want to see more? Explore some of the best Virginia State Parks in our full guide.]
Pochahontas State Park Information
Address: 10301 State Park Rd, Chesterfield, VA 23832
Official Website: https://www.dcr.virginia.gov/state-parks/pocahontas
Entrance Fees
Entrance into Pocahontas State Park is $7 on weekdays and $10 on weekends for standard vehicles. Buses or larger vehicles carrying bigger groups are required to pay a higher fee.
You can also purchase an annual pass to gain unlimited entry into all of Virginia’s 41 beautiful State Parks if you plan to visit others over the next year.

Camping in Pocahontas State Park
Looking for somewhere to enjoy camping near Richmond year-round? Stay overnight or for an extended period with one of the options below for camping in Pocahontas State Park.
Tent & RV Campsites
Plenty of campsites are available in Pocahontas State Park for both tent camping or those bringing a camper along. All sites are private and have easy access to restroom and shower facilities. Pets are allowed.
20 and 30 amp hookup options are available if you are bringing a camper; however, vehicles over 40ft in length are not permitted.
Yurts
Groups of 4 or smaller can reserve one of the park’s yurts – a modern twist to camping that offers a queen-sized bed and twin pullout but no electricity, heat, or air conditioning.
Cabins
Planning a trip for a larger group and prefer the luxury of electricity, air conditioning, and running water? There are 4 three-bedroom cabins available with a fully-stocked kitchen and two bathrooms that can fit up to 8 people.
One 6-bedroom lodge that even larger groups can rent is also available.
All cabins and the lodge require a 6-night minimum stay between Memorial Day and Labor Day.
If you’re traveling with a smaller group and are okay without electricity, heat, or air conditioning, the park also offers 6 camping cabins with two sets of bunk beds that can sleep four people.
RESERVE A SPOT: https://reservevaparks.com/web/Facilities/SearchViewUnitAvailabity.aspx
Things to Do in Pocahontas State Park

Hiking & Mountain Biking Trails
Nature abounds throughout Pocahontas State Park for hikers or mountain bikers of all skill and fitness levels.
The park contains 90 miles of trails overall; 10 miles of trails for hiking-only, 44 miles of trails exclusive to mountain biking, and several others that are mixed-use.
Like the James River Park System, the mountain biking trails through Pocahontas State Park range from easy to very strenuous. Please take all proper precautions to ensure your safety.
Information on specific hiking trails in the park can be found in the park’s visitor center.
Fishing
Fishing is permitted in two bodies of water in Pocahontas State Park: Swift Creek and Beaver Lakes. A valid Virginia fishing license is required, so make sure you have one before you go.
There is a boat ramp available for a $3 fee per boat, however, boats with gas-powered engines are not permitted, and the ramp is subject to close in the winter or when water levels are high.
Kayaking, Canoeing, or Paddleboarding
Kayaks, canoes, and paddle boards can be rented from the park office throughout the summer, or you can bring your own if you’d like to paddle out on Swift Creek.
Hunting
Take advantage of hunting in Pocahontas State Park by reserving one of the managed hunts in November in December.
Hunting is not allowed in the park otherwise unless you have a special archery permit that’s valid throughout bow season in Virginia.
Visit the Aquatic Center
If you’re visiting in the summer, the park’s aquatic center is open daily and is a great spot to bring the kids to swim and cool off.
It features three-foot and five-foot-deep pools, a toddler pool, an activity pool, and two tube water slides.
Live Entertainment
Pocahontas State Park’s Heritage Amphitheater is well-known in the area for its collection of great concerts throughout the summer and fall.
Many great acts have come through the parks in recent years, including the grammy-winning band Old Crow Medicine Show and Foreigner.

Children’s Events & Programs
Poachahontas State Park is a stable in the Chesterfield Community and has plenty of kid’s programs going on throughout the year. .
The park hosts regular events, including pool parties, walks and talks, fishing classes, educational seminars, and more.
Pocahontas State Park FAQ
Are pets allowed in Pocahontas State Park?
Yes, pets are permitted in Pocahontas State Park. An additional fee is required if you are staying in a cabin.
Are there bears in Pocahontas State Park?
Yes, there are black bears in Pocahontas State Park. They are typically harmless, but please do not attempt to approach them.
When is Pocahontas State Park open?
The park is open daily from 7:30 am until dusk. Hours for the different facilities around the park vary.