“once a prisoner of war camp!”
Belle Isle is a 54-acre (220,000 m2) island of the James River in the city of Richmond, Virginia. Once home to a nail works, granite quarry, and hydroelectric plant, during the American Civil War, it was used as a prisoner-of-war camp. Today it serves as a city park. Belle Isle has many bike trails around the island, and has a small cliff used for rock climbing instruction. The main access to Belle Isle is by pedestrian footbridge from Tredegar St. on the north shore (zip code 23219). Alternate access is by wooden bridge near 22nd St. or by rock-hopping from the south shore. Parking tends to be crowded at Tredegar St. on weekends -- only about 50 spaces. Large flat rocks surrounding the island make for good sunbathing, but the water is rough around the rapids and not suitable for swimming. Children should be supervised. Additional features include wooded trails, mountain biking trails, interpreted historical sites, wheelchair-accessible fishing at the quarry pond, and a granite wall for rock climbing.
Great location and probably one of our favorite stops on our vacation. Its a bit of a hike to get to the island itself. We came in from the south (because of the recommendation in the listing that the Tredegar st entrance had limited parking). We were able to find parking easily for our 31 ft RV with lots of street parking around 21 and 22 st. Great hike, interesting stops along the way, and great natural pools to cool off in after the hiking. Kids loved it. Pack a lunch!
Neat place for a scenic walk. Expect to spend an hour or 2. Nearby there are some cool things to see in Richmond. Hollywood cemetery (yes - A MUST SEE), Maymont house and gardens, etc..
Great location for walking, running, hiking and relaxing.
Great views over the water and surrounding city!
Parking is limited on the streets, parking at the civil war museum across the street is $3 per hour up to max $12 per day.
Great place for an evening walk or a run. Great people-watching. Beautiful views of the river. Interesting history too.
Easy access right in downtown Richmond. Well defined trails. Great views of the James River. Port-o-potties available at several locations.
Gorgeous. Little confused on how to get there. You have to park and walk under a bridge. Look for the pedestrian bridge that goes under the highway bridge. Be prepared and bring water and towels ifs quite a hike but well worth it.
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Belle Isle
Hours
- Sun - Sat: 12:00 am - 11:59 pm
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Parking
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Pets Allowed
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Restrooms
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Wifi
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Wheelchair Accessible
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Credit Cards Accepted
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