Dock Street Park

River Views That Will Make You Smile

Located next to the shores of the James River, Dock Street Park is a fresh face in Richmond's popular James River Park System. This 4.5-acre waterfront space has transformed what was once a forgotten, barbed-wire enclosed lot into a peaceful riverside retreat where both locals and visitors come to relax.

The park has revitalized this stretch of shoreline, connecting with Ship Lock Park nearby while offering nice views of the water.

From Forgotten to Flourishing

The story behind Dock Street Park is actually pretty cool. It represents a collaborative effort to expand green spaces in Richmond's East End and make the James River more accessible to everyone. Three major players - the Capital Region Land Conservancy, the James River Association, and the City of Richmond - joined forces to make this happen.

After acquiring the land in 2021, the park officially opened its gates in June 2024. One notable improvement is how it's changed what used to be considered a somewhat sketchy section of the Capital Trail into a more welcoming public space.

A Slice of Richmond History

When you're standing at Dock Street Park, you're actually experiencing a view with some serious historical weight. This spot is close to where William Byrd II stood in 1737 when he was struck by how much the landscape resembled the Thames River view from Richmond, England - which is exactly how our Richmond got its name. Pretty neat, right?

What You'll Find Here

The park gives you direct access to the James River and connects smoothly with the Virginia Capital Trail that runs through the grounds. If fishing is your thing, you'll appreciate the dedicated fishing dock that puts you right at the water's edge.

Within the park, walking trails meander through areas of newly planted native vegetation. Since the park is relatively new, keep in mind that the landscaping is still growing into its full potential. When you need a break, there are four picnic tables and several seating areas where you can relax and take in those calming river views.

Learn While You Explore

A Nature Center has recently been added to the park, offering a great opportunity to learn about the local ecosystem and wildlife that call the James River home. It's worth stopping by, especially if you're visiting with curious kids or just have an interest in the natural environment.

Perfect for a Peaceful Outing

Dock Street Park offers a lovely setting for walking your dog, taking a leisurely stroll along the water, or simply sitting quietly with your thoughts while watching the river flow by. Its integration with both the James River Park System and the Capital Trail makes it an ideal starting point for longer adventures or a delightful destination in its own right.