Dutch Gap Conservation Area
Dutch Gap Conservation Area surrounds the location of Henricus, the second successful English settlement in Virginia. It consists of 810 acres of woodlands, wildlife and waterways along the James River, a major Chesapeake Bay tributary. Dutch Gap is home to a blue heron rookery, beavers, muskrats and other wildlife of a freshwater marsh. A freshwater tidal lagoon is a favorite spot for anglers in search of bass. Eagles and other rare birds and a myriad of fish and wildlife can be viewed.
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Hours
Dutch Gap Conservation Area: Open daily 8:00am - sunset.
(Note: Many places fill to capacity on busy, nice weather days, especially holiday weekends. Please call ahead or visit the official website to get the most up-to-date information before visiting.)
Fees
There is no fee for the park.
Activities
Visit the "Citie of Henricus" at Dutch Gap, the site of an early 17th century English settlement. Dutch Gap also has access to the James River, nature trails and several diverse habitats for bird-watching. Other activities include: trails for hiking, biking, and horseback riding, kayaking or canoeing along the Lagoon Water Trail, camping and picnicking along the peninsula, and fishing at any of the 5 docks, private canoe/kayak tours are also available.
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