Sandy Bottom Nature Park has always been a go-to when it came to walks. Starting back in 2018, it's never disappointing during each visit. Last month, I joined a friend of mine for a morning stroll. Let's see how the visit turned out. I met my friend outside of the information center on an early Saturday morning. The weather was cold but not to where walking was impossible. The path we took, Wetlands, was pretty good and mostly dry. It's the main one we take everytime I visit. I was surprised there weren't other people out and about since it had sunshine, but it was cold and breezy. Just the way a nice trail should be on a Saturday morning. Overall, a pretty good time to get some exercise in. This park is one which will continue to be one of my favorites. Till next time :) read more

The trails are mostly wide and shaded. The dog park also, my Enzo loves it,as do I !!

Beautiful views, lots of trails and dog friendly! I've run a few trails here, walked a few and frequent the dog park. It's well kept and I love it especially during the fall and spring. There's also plenty of parking!! read more

See all

Nice hike. Beautiful views. Perfect for dogs. I will warn you, it's easy to get lost!! We tried to take the 1 mile trail and ended up doing 4 miles. The more you go, the more you get used to it. While we were lost we ran into other ppl who were lost too lol. The map is useless. We enjoyed ourselves and so did our dog. Great place to picnic and get nice instagramable shots lol. PLEASE NOTE, there are rattle snakes there (I am terrified). Also, drench yourself in bug spray. We got bitten alive. read more

Sandy Bottom Nature Park - Parks Near Me - Hampton, Virginia

See all

Absolute gem of a spot, absolutely brilliant for those with kids. From short walks to little bit longer hikes, all with varying scenery, this spot is my fave. Add on the visitors center with some animals, bathrooms, and a playground down the road (bathrooms and tiny library), I'm absolutely sold on this spot for a morning with the kiddo to burn some energy but also learn more about nature and what it takes to preserve it. This is a definite must go spot if you've got kids of any age; and it's free, with tons of parking so absolute win there too! Centrally located, easy to get to, not one bad thing to say about this little spot. read more

The park is large & beautiful w/ a bridge, a lake w/ turtles, a play area for children, a welcome center, a campground, an observation platform, & two different walking trails. It's near a residential neighborhood, so there's young adults or families walking there too. read more

I've driven past this place and never stopped. My husband grew up in the area so he was familiar with this park. I had no idea that it was definitely more of an outdoor park. It is similar to Newport News park in the aspect that there are trails in the woods. I felt safe because there was a lot of people walking the whole time so I didn't feel alone. We were able to walk around a little lake and there was a lot of turtles in there. There are paddle boats to rent and kayaks as well. There is a dog park inside. People were utilizing that. There was a playground for the kids as well with restrooms next to it. There were several trails all around to walk so we will definitely be back to try a different trail. read more

Sandy Bottom Nature Park - So many turtles - Parks Near Me - Hampton, Virginia

Beautiful park. The walking trails are a breath of fresh air. There is a pretty nice playground for children that we utilized. There is also public restrooms that came in handy for some parents at the park. There are pavilions you can use to have an event or party. I did notice a good agouti of security though out. That made me feel nice. The water around the park was pretty. Parking can be tight if there is a big an event happening. Great place to take photographs. Conveniently located. read more

See all

This park has nice walking trails. Perfect place to find and photograph unique mushrooms read more

See all

Very nice preserve Many activities can be enjoyed here Nice walking running paths Lakes, playground, picnic area and playground Lots to do and enjoy here read more

Calling all seekers of nature! Sandy Bottom Nature Park is tops with me! Happily we stumbled upon this rustic park in our travels. A gentle rain was falling on this cool, crisp autumn day and gave us a refreshing respite on our drive. The glassy lake dappled with droplets provided a serene backdrop to the almost 500 acre park. There were gazebos, picnics areas and pavilions for shelter. Hiking trails, camping, fishing and boat rentals are also provided. Play areas are available for your tots. Many of the trees and bushes have identifying markers on them. Pet friendly. What a well-maintained, beautifully designed and educational facility. Snakes, frogs, turtles and other animals are exhibited in the main nature center along with other displays of insects and butterflies. At every turn and around every corner, a new discovery awaits you! We vowed to return to this outdoor sanctuary very soon! read more

Sandy Bottom Nature Park - Parks Near Me - Hampton, Virginia

See all

I like taking my children here! There's plenty of activities to do in the beautiful nature! I love the fact that they have a box for book donations. read more

This park is an absolute staple. We visited many times and never got bored. There is so much to do. There is a lake with paddle boats, lots of nature trails to walk...you can even camp here. You can sit in on the bench swing and watch the water or have a picnic on the grass. Our dog loved it too. Lots of trails with varying scenery to look at. Parking is not too difficult to find on weekdays but as lovely as this park is I imagine it fills up quickly on weekends. This is one of my favorite places in the area. read more

See all

This is a beautiful park with some playgrounds, several different trails that connect. There is also a wetlands trail you can cross the bridge from the main trail to take. On the trails you will see many people walking, running, or riding their bikes. There's a nice playground with clean bathroom facilities next to it. There are several areas to have picnics along the trails, there are several pavilions that have several picnic tables with bbq abilities. They also have small cottages that you can rent. They also have an amphitheatre section in the park! Their nature center has some reptiles and skeletons of reptiles and animals inside. There are also public bathrooms and a classroom in the back. In the nature center, you can pay by the hour or day ($4/hour or $15/day) to rent paddle boats, canoes, kayaks, and 14-foot Jon Boats. This is a nice park to come to exercise, enjoy time with the family, or to appreciate the natural landscape of the area. read more

See all

Sandy Bottom is rather like a secret garden; you don't realize how much it has to offer until you walk around the whole thing. They say a walk in nature walks the soul back home; it's easy to see why an hour out here will make you happily disconnect from your iPhone and reconnect with the outdoors! Pet friendly, with its own bark park where dog owners socialize and dogs have an enclosed area to run around off leash, trails off the beaten path for adventure, wildlife and nature preserved, it's clear to see why so many enjoy a stroll here with their four legged friends. Ample parking, a lake that offers boat rentals and freshwater fishing, there's even a camp site where you can rent out space with a group, grill out and chill out. Nestled away in between i64 and big bethel rd, you can easily drive past and not know what you're missing. With Spring right around the corner, nature is coming to life in the park - definitely worth the visit! read more

Sandy Bottom Nature Park - Trail - Parks Near Me - Hampton, Virginia

See all

I've been to alot of parks in the area. I really like this one. I came year probably 6 years ago and rented one of the paddle boats. I was nervous because I can't swim. Lol! But a friend of mine encouraged me to go for it with them and I did and it was fun. I love coming here around fall. I love taking pictures of the fall colors in the leaves. There are camp grounds, grills, on duty rangers, restrooms , dog park, and etc. It's right across the street from the AMC theater, restaurants, Dollar Tree, and other businesses. If you need to grab food or drinks across the street before enjoying a day at the park. The only difference this year. Your not able to rent the canoes or paddle boats. Because the water level is extremely low. I've never seen that before. I hope it rains soon. Because your able to walk in the middle. Because the grass is showing where the water use too be..... But please don't try to walk on the grass though. Lol! There's still some water out there... Don't be a dare devil! It's about a 2 mile walk. So dress comfortable. Today was a little hot.. But worth a day out in the sun at the park. A little fresh air never hurt anyone... :) read more

Sandy Bottom is ready for visitors 365 days a year. Educational opportunities and camping experiences are scheduled through Hampton Parks & Rec, or directly on site. The location for Sandy is off I64 around 1.5 miles. The park sits just 10-15 miles West of the HRBT. Signage help direct motorist to the entrance. Parking is designated in a few lots and has always been adequate on my visits. Some debris has been in th area although trash cans are present. How Sandy Bottom come about may be a mystery to some. It is a man made lake and the name derives from the sand on its bottom. The water depth is not as deep as you may think. The beginnings of Sandy came about decades ago with the construction of nearby Interstate 64. Tons and tons of dirt was needed creating the large watering hole. I keep returning because I love the water views. The wooded trail around the lake is around 2.5 miles. Its wide and flat which is perfect for a run, jog, or walk. I saw an abundant amount of jogger strollers and happy babies enjoying the ride. Canoeing, kayaking and paddle boating is a common activity on the water. Rental boats are reasonable. Cabins are available for rent. Unfortunately debris has been see every where in the park. I urge visitors to help pick up trash when you see it. Dog owners have their own fenced area and tags are checked each time by staff. Registration of your K9 is around $10. This is the only location your pet is permitted. The Nature Center is an educational building that has displays and even live reptiles. The structure includes a meeting room and restrooms. This is the office for the park ranger staff. I'm not overly impressed by the physical displays. However I am impressed by the services offered by rangers and Hampton Parks. This is a gem of a recreation space in the 757 that probably is not nearly as known to Southsiders, but should be. Put this fantastic park on your list to enjoy with the family this Fall. read more

See all

An oasis next to a busy multi-lane road, this park surprised me with the lush green and amenities. We stopped here on our recent, second-ever trip to VA Beach for a lunch break. Parking was aplenty, picnic tables and benches were everywhere, and the wonderful canopy almost made us oblivious to the road noise coming from across the river. The nature centre has public bathrooms as well as a fancy water dispenser where you can refill your water bottle without tilting it, and the glass display cases outside the bathrooms had insect specimens and other interesting items like an owl skull. All in all a great space to recharge, and I'm grateful for it. read more

See all

This park is huge and absolutely beautiful. I came here for a run and learned they have 11 different trails that connect. You could come here every day for a week and not see the same view which is great for people like me that don't really even like to run!!! Pet friendly trails that are quiet, well groomed, and peaceful when you get away from the road. Almost all of the long trail was in the shade so it was actually a comfortable temp even in the middle of summer. Tons of parking in each of the parking lots surrounding the park with picnic tables and benches every where. Great playground for the kids and plenty of grass area to sit on a blanket and do absolutely nothing if your looking to relax. Great park and I will go back this weekend to explore it some more! read more

Sandy Bottom Nature Park - Long trail around the park - 3.3 miles long - Parks Near Me - Hampton, Virginia

This is a superb facility! The park ranger and desk person were both very friendly. The park is beautiful and has so much to offer right in the middle of the city. read more

I'm a regular attendee of this park, having worked with the founder of the dog park. I was even a "bark ranger" when the dog park first opened. (still have the tshirt). The positives- the park is well-maintained and patrolled. On the negative side, it backs up to a dump(!!) and the ticks and mosquitoes are plentiful. The water may or may not be safe for your dogs. Just keep in mind the garbage dump. And wear your Deep Woods Off. read more

Absolutely breathtaking beauty everywhere you turn in this park. Poster-worthy pictures can be taken from every vantage point. I love watching all the different kinds of turtles on the lake. The walking paths are well-kept too. I just wish it wasn't always so full of people. It can be difficult to find peace and quiet here on weekends but it's so beautiful, it's no wonder why. read more

The atmosphere and trails overall are amazing. Me and my best friend rode our onewheels through most of the trails that vary on terrain and had the BEST three hours of my life that I've had in a long time. I WILL say however, we wear the appropriate gear, we're mindful of others on the trails and avoided any trouble or high speeds which is at most 10-12mph on these trails and were told by a newer staff member to leave from his boss apparently and cannot ride there and then they took it a step further to say we had to walk and carry our 30lbs onewheels in our arms for over a mile.... We we're not harming anyone and actually giving this park more purpose for people and revenue by riding those there, calm and casually I might add. Was simply a cowards move to not tell us that themselves and sent the trash man to tell us, DID I MENTION THAT TWO PARK RANGERS DROVE PASSED US AND SAID NOTHING?!? Please handle this as that was my first time going to Sandy Bottom and will most likely be the last time and as a 30 year plus resident and pay my taxes I think if I want to stroll down a path in a nature park I should be unbothered. And I feel as a park ranger you should be clearing the trail paths for the guests and making sure no one is getting mugged by a bear or something to the extent of preserving the park other than ruining the happiness of others. I would gladly pay up to 50$ dollars just to ride those trails for the day and create more revenue for the park to keep it pristine. Support the Float Movement you all!! Please sign my petition to get access and make at least onewheels for casual use or EUC to this beautiful park allowed. Thanks! https://chng.it/WD8gWbc9Rq read more

Sandy Bottom Nature Park - Part of a path - Parks Near Me - Hampton, Virginia

If you've been looking for an all-encompassing park, then Sandy Bottom Nature Park (SBNP) is it. A 456-acre environmental education and wildlife management facility, SBNP is located in Hampton, and it was turned from borrow pits and garbage dumps into this beautiful park. Back in 1952, they began mining sand, which left pits and turned into lakes. Years later, that area also became used as illegal dumping. In 1990, the City of Hampton was given the land from VDOT, and after hard work, SBNP was officially open in 1996. I love to hear stories such as this--it is important to fix what we have destroyed. Here are the highlights: * 10,000 square foot nature center My boys and I really enjoyed the nature center, and I was impressed with all of the programs they have here at SBNP. You don't often find a nature center at a free park. * Campground There are 9 individual primitive campsites and two group sites. They also have 4 yurts. Check out their website for pricing. * Kayaking, canoeing, and paddle boats They have two lakes: Crystal Lake and Sandy Bottom Lake. They have boats to rent and you can bring your own kayak and canoe. However, you must get a permit from the nature center. It is $35 for the year and they will give you a sticker. After August, the fee is prorated. If you're only going once in a while, I would recommend renting; a two-person kayak is $4 an hour. * Fishing You can fish from the pier next to the nature center or from renting a boat. Some of the fish you may find are Largemouth Bass, Bluegill, Crappie and Catfish. * Hiking and biking According to the brochure, there are 12 miles of trails. The longest main trail, Trillium, is 3.3-miles long. * Picnicking There are five reservable picnic shelters throughout the park. * Playground * Restrooms As you can see, there is something for everyone here at SBNP. Take advantage of this wonderful park, and bring your children if you have them. It is vital to teach them about nature so that the next generation can take better care of the earth. read more

See all

Great place to enjoy the outdoors. They have great scenery, trails and a playground for the kids. Very clean!

Just up the road from a busy plaza this a is gem. They have picnic tables and a gazebo and a beautiful lake in the background. This is a nature park,so you will see many signs showing what you may see here like turtles and birds. It is pretty big ,but I only stayed in the beginning where we had our lunch today . I was able to look around a bit noticing some buildings one of which you can rent its a big hall. Its very clean and the park rangers were there making sure it was kept that way. read more

See all

Sandy Bottom Nature Park, where have you been all my life?! This environmental friendly educational park preserve on acres and acres of land, features a large lake & a beautiful nature center. I went with a good friend of mine and we had a blast! Im definitely planning to return... frequently! My buddy on the other hand, has been here a few times and recommended that I give it a try being that I've been kayaking before. Man after today's experience I must say, Sandy Bottom Nature park is a great place to visit with family, friends, or simply by yourself. The park contains gorgeous nature trails; which aren't paved, but you'll have no problem going for a nice run, bike ride, or just a walk to explore the nature. There's fishing areas for a small fee, row boating, kayaking, canoeing for an even smaller fee, and there's even a shaded dog park for our furry friends! There are committed spaces for outdoor grilling and validate parking spaces for that area. Walking along the park you'll find lots of areas to view turtles, fish, snakes, and other reptiles & amphibians. There's a large meeting area where you can plan parties or meeting. This large meeting room holds 100 people and featured a great view of the lake and patio area; which also holds 100 people! The atmosphere was amazing! You're outdoor! In the beauty of nature! Get back to nature and put down the electronic devices! Old fashion family time old fashion fun. The options to choose from for camping looked amazing. The walk was nice, flat, and easy. There was lots of opportunity here to take photo of landscape and wildlife. Which I must state that I truly did try to capture as much on my phone but I just couldn't help but take majority of it in.. sorry. In a nutshell, this fantastic little gem has multiple trails and plenty of wildlife which can help calm the mind. Going for a nice walk around here after a long day getting some fresh air would work wonders. Definitely one of Hampton, Virginia's hidden treasures! read more

See all

My fiancé and I love coming to sandy bottom nature park! We mainly come for the dog park, but we also enjoy walking the trails. The park is very clean and the workers are very friendly. My fiancé and I have a large German Shepherd, so we usually come to the dog park daily. The dog park is shaded (this is really nice in the summer) and there are plenty of benches. I would definitely suggest to bring bug spray in the summer because the mosquitos are terrible (the dog park is right next to their lake). We also enjoy walking their trails. There is a 2 mile trail (this is the one we usually do) and a back trail that's about 4 miles. The nature park also has kayaks, canoes, and paddle boats! My fiancé and I will occasionally pack a picnic and eat at one of their many tables. There are plenty of overhangs for weddings, parties, and reunions. If you are ever in the Hampton area, definitely check this park out. You will NOT be disappointed! read more

See all

This is such a beautiful place. It's open for hiking during Covid-19. The trails are easy to navigate on foot or bike. I can only imagine what it looks like in the fall. Very easy to social distance here. There is also a dog park here. I seen a lot of people walking dogs. There are two lakes you can travel around. One of the lakes has a cute little path that runs right through the middle. I can't wait to go back! read more

See all

Love Sandy Bottom and highly recommend it for families. We have attended a graduation celebration and a family reunion at Sandy Bottom. We have been thrilled both times with the clean facilities and opportunities for family fun. It speaks volumes for Sandy Bottom that one of our granddaughters who had any option of her choosing selected Sandy Bottom for a graduation celebration. We had a wonderful gathering of all ages from infants to grandparents. Every one of us enjoyed ourselves in comfort. There was a covered pavilion. We were able to decorate and add additional seating. There was a large open area for pick up football games. We even had stray kids wander in and join!! It is just that kind of a safe friendly atmosphere. The restrooms were within a reasonable walking distance and were clean. Everyone; strangers and family just could not help but smile and have a great attitude. It is a very serene fun place. Highly recommend. read more

The perfect spot for an afternoon with the family! We love exploring the many trails at SBNP and renting canoes or kayaks with the kids. Rentals are very reasonable and in good condition. The park is dog friendly and very well kept. SBNP offers many programs at a nominal fee. Registration is required, in most cases, one day prior to the event. You can even finger paint with turtles! It's great for camping, fishing, biking, kayaking and much more! read more

Sandy Bottom Nature Park - Parks Near Me - Hampton, Virginia

One of the best nature parks in the area. I hiked here on an early fall morning when the leaves were falling and the trees were of all colors. The paths are all covered in leaves that crunch beneath your feet as you walk and fellow hiking smile as you past by. A beautiful, yet comforting park. One of my favorite things about the nature park is its man-made projects that are created for the benefit of small animals. You will find bricks stacked up to house small bugs, insects, and homes for other critters. Bird houses sit waiting for mama birds to nest and netted coverings tied down to protect frog and toads habits. There are sitting areas along the paths for tired hikers or just to sit and enjoy the view. The dog park looked interesting however I did not use it. I'm definitely returning to this park again when I get the chance. read more

There is nothing else around like Sandy Bottom. It has everything!! Beautiful walking trails both in the shade and sun, a wonderful dog park that stretches more than your dog could run, paddle boats and canoes, and even picnic areas to enjoy! We mainly go here for the dog park. The park community is welcoming to new members and the "regulars" are even nicer! There's always good conversation among the people there. Dogs of any size are welcome. The walking trails are our next favorite thing. The trails themselves are very well kept with small gravel rocks. You have to be wary of the tall grass during tick season, but other than that it's a great walk! There is plenty to do here at the park and the staff are extremely nice. I once saw them rescue a baby bird that had fallen from a tree! They truly care about the park itself. read more

See all

If you're looking for a super affordable family day out, I highly recommend checking out this park! The hiking trails, dog park, nature center, playground, picnic area, and parking are all free. Even the activities that do cost money (such as camping, renting a kayak/boat, etc) are all super affordable! Sandy Bottom is perfect for events too - such as weddings, family reunions, birthday parties, etc. My husband and I actually had our wedding ceremony at the outside amphitheater near the nature center. It only cost 10 dollars an hour to rent out that space! You can't beat that! If you're looking for a quaint, affordable park in the Hampton Roads area, check this place out. :) read more

Sandy Bottom Nature Park - Wedding Ceremony at Sandy Bottom Nature Park. - Parks Near Me - Hampton, Virginia

See all

Have visited this park twice and twice enjoyed the water. $4 to take a boat out? You can't beat that!!! We traveled across to the other side and under the bridge. We have yet to explore the trails but we do enjoy the lake. I have proven to myself that I can get the boat down, drag it to the water, put it in the water and canoe with 2 children!!! The park is clean, and the staff have provided me with nice helpful tips. I will be back in the fall to try a Yurt out. We were even there last time in time to see the snakes receive their dinner. Lovely. Only thing I hate is how disgusting the life jackets are. I can see us purchasing our own just to avoid theirs. I am not sure they have ever been cleaned (if that's possible) or even changed out over a certain period of time. I can only imagine what's on or in them. Still love the place and want to explore more. Picnic, playground and boating next time. read more

See all

Having some time before I needed to head to work, I found this Hampton Va park. Not the most tranquil of settings as the noise from the close by highway is always noticeable, but a pretty lake, walking trails, fishing pier and nature center are there for your enjoyment. First thing that really caught my attention are the multiple well placed signs warning of the native Canebreak Rattlesnake that reside in the park. I appreciated the sign and decided I would rather visit inside the nature center where I can see this snake and several others inside a display instead of a chance meeting outdoors. Everything seemed well maintained, and the nature center was enjoyable to visit. Nice informational display inside the nature center on the history of the park and its use as a wetlands. I imagine during warmer weather this is a nice destination for local residents for boating, fishing, biking and hiking. read more

See all

Add me to the list of people who are fans of this park. I am in town for work and wanted to find a nice walk to do as this is one of the first really nice days in awhile. (C'mon Spring!) This place popped up and I drove over and decided to hike the Trillium trail, which is essentially the perimeter of the park. Trillium is the longest trail at 3.3 miles and most of them are under a mile in length. The path is well marked and maintained though it was a little muddy on the final leg, due to recent rains. The only downside to this trail is the first leg parallels I-64 so you have a loud highway right next to this pretty walk. There's a protected wetlands around there so it's not like they can cut in to hide the highway. Bathrooms located in the visitor's center. Also water activities and fishing, but I didn't partake. read more

Be careful at the picnic tables!! Our whole family got devoured by chiggers. Like really badly. We love this place though. Great hiking and paddle boating. Fun nature center for the kids. Free! Beautiful! read more

This park is the best place to trail run, it's basically loops around lakes, but there is also a nice playground for small kids and a nature center to look at small animals that can be seen there. There is also a dog park. It's not too big or too small. Beautiful wetlands! read more

This was our first time being here. It was a nice experience to be one with nature. The park was a little smaller then expected, but it was very quite and perfect for fishing. One unexpected adventure that I found was paddle boats and canoeing. Overall it was a nice clean park that's awesome for walking. read more

Sandy Bottom Nature Park - Parks Near Me - Hampton, Virginia