“In every walk with nature, one receives far more than he seeks.” – John Miur

Winter is nearing its close and spring is on its way. We are ready to welcome all that comes with it. The river is waiting for you. Fishing, camping, dancing, shopping, biking, hiking and eating alfresco are just a few ways we’ll be shaking off cabin fever. Here are a few bright ideas to kick off spring…

Get a Fresh Catch

Get out on the water and get in touch with nature! There are a few ways to enjoy our long time tradition of fishing in the River Realm. If you want someone to show you the way, bring in experts like River’s Run Boat Tours. They will set you up for the perfect fishing trip with tackle and a guide to their secret spots.  You can also experience crabbing aboard the charter company’s Pamlico. If you want to fish from the shore, many of our parks have fishing piers and knowledgeable staff who can help! If you have a boat and the tools for a good fishing trip, our marinas and campgrounds have boat ramps so you can load your boat in and out of the water for a day of adventure. You can also leave your boat at our local marinas like Rappahannock River Yacht Club, Dozier’s Regatta Point Marina and Deltaville Marina. Many have bath facilities, laundry rooms, pool, WiFi, courtesy bikes and cars, and other amenities. 

Enjoy a bit of Camping

You can also enjoy the outdoors at our favorite campgrounds like Belle Isle State Park. Here, you and your family can explore seven miles of shoreline by foot or in a kayak or canoe, which can be rented at the park. Along the park’s hiking, biking and bridle trails, you’ll meet white-tailed deer, turkeys, groundhogs, rabbits, and more.  The park offers full-service and primitive camping where you can set up tents for the night to roast hot dogs and s’mores by the fire. Fall asleep under the stars and wake up with the sun. For something more full-service, stay inside the Bel Air Mansion and the Bel Air Guest House. We have many campgrounds that all offer similar access and excitement in the River Realm. Read our camping guide to find additional ideas and locations for camping in Virginia’s River Realm.

Shopping is my Cardio

It’s okay if you consider shopping cardio. As long as you’re counting your steps, right? If you are visiting Belle Isle State Park, Kilmarnock is the nearest town. This small town’s main street is darling, and full of shops and boutiques to slip into. Hunt for antiques, clothing, original art, stationary and even fresh produce at the Kilmarnock Farmers Market. More of the River Realm’s towns including Irvington, Urbanna and Deltaville also have walkable streets and spots to shop, eat and play. Read our small town guide to see what each town has to offer. 

Boogie at a Concert

The wildlife and waves aren’t the only things that go bump in the night here in the River Realm.  If you head to one of our favorite music venues, you’ll find yourself tapping your feet and swinging your hips, too. Local restaurants like Willaby’s and Something Different welcome musicians who bring the beat while you eat. All year long, they have calendars full of concerts and special events that bring soul, rock, blues, and more to our shorelines and towns. The Half Shell Stage in Kilmarnock Town Centre Park welcomes touring acts and local artists alike as local food trucks serve up fresh seafood creations and sweet treats. A few of our venues host music series all summer long like the Deltaville Maritime Museum,  Urbanna Town Marina, and Belle Isle State Park. 

Warm Up Our Feed!

Help us kick off the winter blues. Share your food, festival, and fashion finds with us. Take a photo of your experiences and tag us at @virginiasriverrealm.