2025 Guided Hikes: River’s Bend

Celebrate Earth Day early with Capital Region Land Conservancy and Chesterfield County Parks & Recreation! Join Chesterfield County Naturalist, Mark Battista, and CRLC Land Stewardship Manager, Ashely Moulton as we visit River’s Bend, a beautiful expanse of land along the James River now permanently protected. 

ABOUT THE AREA

Rivers Bend, formally known as The Rivers Bend Land LLC conservation easement, was officially created in December of 2017 and covers 180 acres of the former River’s Bend Golf Course. The property contains over a mile of shoreline along the James River in Chesterfield County and has over 2 miles of trails that are open to public use. The easement was recorded after the golf course closed, allowing CRLC to permanently protect the scenic views afforded to the public from Henricus Historical Park/Dutch Gap Conservation area of the downstream James River. Over 85 acres of wetland habitat are protected under the easement, adding to the health of the James River and Chesapeake Bay watersheds.

We’re keeping our fingers crossed that we’ll experience the sounds of the Spring Peeper’s call. Triggered by longer daylight and the first warm spells of the year, male spring peeper frogs begin their “peeping”-like call to attract a female. The breeding typically occurs statewide from late February through June in wet meadows, roadside ditches, wet forests, and small spring pools. The Rivers Bend conservation easement is a spring peeper’s paradise.

ABOUT THE HIKE

This is an easy-level 2-3 mile hike around the property, mainly staying on the former cart paths of the former Rivers Bend Golf Course, although the route could be muddy or uneven. Participants are advised to wear comfortable, sturdy hiking shoes/boots, sun protection, and bring water, plus a light snack if desired. Space is limited for everyone’s safety and enjoyment.

INSTRUCTIONS