York River State Park Events & Activities in December including Jingle Bark in the Park on December 14

9801 York River Park Rd., Williamsburg, VA 23188
Phone: 757-566-3036   Email Address: YorkRiver@dcr.virginia.gov
Web Site: http://www.dcr.virginia.gov/state-parks/york-river

York River State Park events and activities are listed below. The park is known for its rare and delicate estuarine environment, where freshwater and saltwater meet to create a rich habitat for marine and plant life. It is on the York River and is designated as a Chesapeake Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve. Programs, activities and visitor center displays focus on the history, use, wildlife and preservation of the York River and its marshes. More than 30 miles of hiking, mountain biking, and equestrian trails allow visitors to explore the marsh, river shoreline and forests.

December 14

Jingle Bark in the Park
10:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. Time changed to 1:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m.
Join Santa Claus and support the park. Walkers will receive a set of “Jingle Bells.” Dogs will receive a special treat. Enter your pooch in the Holiday Hat/Outfit Contest. Coffee, hot chocolate, and cookies will be provided. Donations of pet food and supplies will be accepted.

December 28

Stargazing
5:00 p.m. – 10:00 p.m.
Join the Virginia Peninsula Astronomy Stargazers for a night of wonder and discovery. Away from the city lights, the broad cliffs above the York River are perfect for observing constellations, planets, and other features in the night sky. There is no fee for this program.

January 1

First Day Hike
11:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.
Kick off the New Year with a trek to a distant, hidden gem. The Pamunkey Overlook is at the bottom of a steep bluff along the York River. The observation platform offers a commanding view over the cord grass and across the river to Wererocommico, where Chief Powhatan once ruled Tidewater Virginia. We will cover a little over 4 miles. Bring water and a lunch/snack. Be prepared to pack in/pack out. Much of the terrain is flat. But, the hill leading to the overlook is steep. 

We will also have a shorter hike around Woodstock Pond through the quiet Beaver Trail. It is narrow with one steep ravine and surrounded by a mix of pines and hardwoods. This trek ends with a gorgeous view of the river and pond leading back up to the Visitor Center. Dogs on leashes are welcome. 

We will begin the day with a welcome to the New Year for all the hikers, horseback riders, and mountain bikers. No fee for this event and parking fees waived for the day.

York River State Park
9801 York River Park Rd., Williamsburg, VA 23188
Phone: 757-566-3036   Email Address: YorkRiver@dcr.virginia.gov
Web Site: http://www.dcr.virginia.gov/state-parks/york-river