Explore the Park: Belle Isle

Things to do Here

Bird Watching
Paddle Sports
Biking
Mountain Biking
Fishing
Hiking & Walking
Scenic Views
Historic Site
Picnics
Climbing
Bird Watching
Paddle Sports
Biking
Mountain Biking
Fishing
Hiking & Walking
Scenic Views
Historic Site
Picnics
Climbing

An island in the middle of the James River in downtown Richmond, Belle Isle was acquired by William Byrd I in 1676 and it remained in the Byrd family for a century. The Park’s most popular site, it offers wooded paths, mountain biking trails, a bicycle skills area, historical sites, wheelchair-accessible fishing at the quarry pond, good sunbathing and a granite wall for rock climbing. A pedestrian bridge under the Lee Bridge provides access from Historic Tredegar. 

Fast Facts

amenities

Visitors can find a water station for filling bottles and a port-a-potty.

History in the park

Belle Isle has been the home to a granite quarry, nail factory, and an infamous Civil War POW camp.

Hours

Open from sunrise to sunset every day.