There are so many beautiful parks in Lynchburg where you can go for a stroll, set up a picnic or barbecue, or just hang out with friends (or your dog). So in honor of March 30 being National Take A Walk in the Park Day, here are some parks you’ll want to visit not just on March 30, but all year long!
Peaks View Park
This popular Lynchburg destination is chock full of things to do. The second largest park in Lynchburg, it has lots of options for playing sports, including a disc golf course that’s popular with the locals. Peaks View also has picnic shelters and barbecue racks for grilling your favorite party foods and hanging out with friends and family.
This park is located on a large grassy hill with meandering sidewalks, fun playgrounds for kids, several tall spreading trees and beautiful wooded areas for hiking and throwing frisbees. It’s an ideal place to go for a walk with your dog or a friend and get a breath of fresh air. Also, the sunsets in this park are beautiful, and it’s just far enough away from main thoroughfares that you won’t hear traffic. Peaks View Park is located at 170 Ivy Creek Ln., off Wiggington Road.
Riverside Park
The second-oldest park in Lynchburg, Riverside Park is set on 49 acres of rolling land overlooking the James River. It provides many options for ADA-compliant recreation, including playgrounds, sporting courts and a mini waterpark called the Sprayground, which is perfect for beating summertime heat. But it’s also known for its interactive transportation exhibit fashioned from old train cars, the hull of the packet boat Marshall that ferried Stonewall Jackson to his final resting place and the Fink Deck Truss Bridge. Plenty of beautiful trees and trails will delight the avid hiker, and a gazebo and picnic shelters are perfect for gathering with family and friends. Riverside Park is located at 2238 Rivermont Avenue.
Miller Park
Miller Park is located in the heart of Lynchburg. Situated on 30 acres of land, it has multiple picnic areas, beautiful shade trees, a basketball court, a playground and the only outdoor public pool in Lynchburg. Also on the property is a building called the Miller Center, which houses a theater, classrooms and the interactive learning center the Nature Zone. The historic Aviary building can be used for weddings, parties and other events, and the pool can be rented for special occasions. Miller Park is a destination for many locals because of its size and close proximity to large Lynchburg neighborhoods. It’s a place where the community can gather to spend time together, have fun and learn about nature.
Hollins Mill Park
Located along the Blackwater Creek Trail system, Hollins Mill Park is situated along the Blackwater Creek itself. The old stone Hollins Mill dam is the main piece of the park, and was once part of a historic mill, but it allows for fishing and boating activities on calm waters. On the banks of the creek is a wide field perfect for picnics, grilling and playing in the sun. Also, with the Blackwater Creek trail system running right through it, it’s easy to stretch your legs a little. This peaceful little park, located at 521 Hollins Mill Rd., is one you’ll want to add to your visit list!
Riverfront Park
This wide open field on the bank of the James River in historic Downtown Lynchburg is great for walking, cycling and local events. Riverfront Park features shade trees, a seasonal zero-depth fountain for the kids to enjoy and a stage area for concerts and festivals. It has close access to the Blackwater Creek Trail and Percival’s Island Trail, so you’ll see plenty of people walking, running and biking through it. It also is close to many of Downtown Lynchburg’s best shops and restaurants. On any given day, you’ll see people walking their dogs, playing with their kids at the fountain or stopping for a moment while on the trail.
Sandusky Park
Located at 5805 Rhonda Rd., Sandusky Park has more than 21 acres to explore. It has athletic fields, a paved pathway and a picnic area. Located next to Blackwater Creek, its beautiful scenery includes trees like sycamores and dogwoods, along with a vibrant wildflower area specifically set aside for the viewing pleasure of the public during the spring and summer months.
All of these parks are great options for a nice walk, an outdoor meal, a stroll with a friend or simply enjoying the sights. Find out more about Lynchburg parks at the Parks & Recreation website.