Harwood's Mill Reservoir
A serene reservoir offering kayaking, fishing, and diverse trails for hiking and biking amidst Virginia's natural beauty.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Pleasant weather for outdoor activities
Harwood's Mill Reservoir
Best Time
Pleasant weather for outdoor activities
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A serene reservoir offering kayaking, fishing, and diverse trails for hiking and biking amidst Virginia's natural beauty.
"Paddling the lake was beautiful. The water was surprisingly clear compared to other waterways I've seen in Virginia."
Kayak Rental Season
Rentals available May-Oct. Book ahead during peak season! :kayak:
Trail Root Alert!
Be prepared for many roots on biking trails. Sturdy shoes are a must! :athletic_shoe:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Kayaking & Boating
Harwood's Mill Reservoir
Paddle across surprisingly clear waters, enjoying the serene environment. No gas motors allowed, perfect for quiet exploration.
Extensive Trail Network
Riverview Farm Park
Explore miles of trails for hiking, biking, and even horseback riding. Trails offer varied terrain, including some with good elevation changes.
Fishing Opportunities
Upper and Lower Reservoir Sections
Cast a line for various fish species from shore (permit required) or by boat. A peaceful spot for anglers seeking a good catch.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Kayak & Boat Launch Fees
Trail Conditions & Footwear
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Kayak Rental Season
Rentals available May-Oct. Book ahead during peak season! :kayak:
Trail Root Alert!
Be prepared for many roots on biking trails. Sturdy shoes are a must! :athletic_shoe:
Any bass fisherman in VA? If so what’s your favorite body of water. This was at Lee Hall in Newport News, which is a gem if you know how to fish it.
Picnic Pavilions
Covered spots available for a relaxing picnic lunch. :picnic_table:
Fishing Permit
Remember your permit if fishing from shore. :fishing_pole:
Tips
from all over the internet
Kayak Rental Season
Rentals available May-Oct. Book ahead during peak season! :kayak:
Trail Root Alert!
Be prepared for many roots on biking trails. Sturdy shoes are a must! :athletic_shoe:
Picnic Pavilions
Covered spots available for a relaxing picnic lunch. :picnic_table:
Fishing Permit
Remember your permit if fishing from shore. :fishing_pole:
No Gas Motors
Enjoy quiet boating with electric or manual propulsion only. :boat:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Harwood's Mill Reservoir for its beautiful, clear waters and extensive trail network, making it a versatile spot for kayaking, fishing, and hiking. The free park admission is a significant plus, though some find the biking trails challenging due to numerous roots. Kayak rentals and picnic areas add to its appeal as a local outdoor escape.
"To launch your own kayak is $5 for the first one ans $2.50 for any additional. To rent a kayak in the season May to October is $7. There are bike trails I didn't get to check out, but paddling the lake was beautiful. The water was surprisingly clear compared to other waterways I've seen in Virginia."
Kaylin Martin
"Always a pleasant park to take your kids or just a quiet walk. There are lots of trails, both horse, bike, hiking, or easy strolls. Fishing from shore (with permit), launch your own boat, and fish both the upper or lower sections. Free admittance."
Barney Thecat
"A wonderful local place for enjoying the outdoors! There are trails for hiking and biking, and two lakes for kayaking, boating (no gas motors!), and fishing! There are even a few small covered pavillions for picnicking. Please "like" my review if you found it helpful or informative."
Mic Platt
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Harwood's Mill Reservoir is located within Riverview Farm Park in Newport News, Virginia. The park is easily accessible by car, with ample parking available. Many visitors use GPS navigation to find the park entrance.
Public transportation options to Riverview Farm Park are limited. It's generally recommended to drive or use ride-sharing services for the most convenient access to the reservoir and its trails.
Specific driving directions will depend on your starting point. Using a GPS app like Google Maps or Waze and searching for 'Riverview Farm Park, Newport News, VA' is the most reliable method.
Yes, Riverview Farm Park offers sufficient parking for visitors, including areas near the boat launch and trailheads. Parking is generally free.
The primary access point is through Riverview Farm Park, which provides access to the reservoir for boating, fishing, and trailheads.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Admittance to Riverview Farm Park and Harwood's Mill Reservoir is free. However, there are fees for launching personal boats and renting kayaks.
Kayak rentals are available from May to October and cost $7 per rental. It's advisable to check availability, especially during peak season.
Launching your own kayak or boat costs $5 for the first vessel and $2.50 for each additional boat.
Yes, a valid Virginia fishing license is required to fish from shore or from a boat. You can obtain licenses through the Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources.
While specific hours can vary seasonally, Riverview Farm Park is generally open during daylight hours. It's best to check the official Newport News Parks and Recreation website for the most current information.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
You can enjoy kayaking, canoeing, boating (no gas motors), fishing, hiking, biking, and picnicking. The park also has trails for horseback riding.
Absolutely! Harwood's Mill Reservoir is surrounded by an extensive trail network suitable for hiking, biking, and even horseback riding. Some trails offer good elevation changes.
The water at Harwood's Mill Reservoir is described as surprisingly clear compared to other waterways in Virginia.
Yes, there are several small covered pavilions available for picnicking, making it a great spot for a family outing.
The reservoir is home to about 14 different species of fish, offering a good variety for anglers.
🎫 🚴♀️ Biking Trails
Yes, the biking trails are considered technical and can test your bike's suspension due to numerous tree roots across the path. They offer a good challenge for experienced riders.
Given the root-filled trails, wearing sturdy biking gear and ensuring your bike's suspension is in good condition is recommended. Protective gear is always a good idea.
The technical nature and abundance of roots might make the trails challenging for absolute beginners. Intermediate to advanced riders will likely find them more enjoyable.
Bike rental information is not readily available directly at the reservoir. It's advisable to bring your own bike or check local bike shops in Newport News for rental options.
The park offers an extensive trail network, and specific lengths for dedicated biking trails can vary. Exploring the park map upon arrival will give you a better idea of the available routes.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Kayaking and boating on the reservoir can be a fun, supervised activity for older children, with rental options available seasonally. While the biking trails can be technical due to roots, families might opt for less challenging hiking paths or simply enjoy the open spaces and scenic views. Remember to pack snacks and water, and be mindful of the trail conditions for little ones.
🎣 Anglers Seeking a Quiet Spot
The reservoir's policy against gas motors ensures a peaceful fishing experience, allowing you to focus on the cast and the quiet of nature. It's a great local gem for those looking to unwind and enjoy their favorite pastime.
🚴♀️ Mountain Biking Enthusiasts
While these roots can make for a less flowy ride than some might prefer, they also add an element of skill and challenge. Be prepared with good tires and suspension, and consider this a great spot for practicing your root navigation skills.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Waters: Kayaking and Boating
Kayaks can be rented from May through October, adding to the accessibility of the reservoir for spontaneous outings. The cost for launching personal boats is $5 for the first and $2.50 for additional ones, while rentals are $7. This makes it an affordable option for enjoying the outdoors. The absence of loud motorboats allows for better wildlife viewing and a more immersive nature experience.
Whether you're an experienced kayaker or looking for a leisurely paddle, the reservoir provides a beautiful backdrop. The clear waters and calm atmosphere are frequently highlighted by visitors as a major draw.
On the Trails: Hiking and Biking Adventures
However, a recurring point from trail users, particularly bikers, is the prevalence of tree roots across many paths. While this can add a technical aspect to the ride, it can also make the trails less smooth and potentially jarring for bike suspensions. Visitors are advised to wear appropriate footwear for hiking and ensure their bikes are well-equipped for root-strewn terrain.
Despite the root situation, the trails are generally considered good for riding and offer a great way to explore the natural beauty of the area. The diverse trail system ensures there's something for most fitness levels, from casual strolls to more vigorous rides.
Fishing at Harwood's Mill Reservoir
To fish from the shore, a valid Virginia fishing license is required. For those planning to bring their own boats, there are launch fees associated with getting them onto the water. The upper and lower sections of the reservoir are both accessible for fishing, providing ample space to find a good spot.
The calm waters, free from the disturbance of gas motors, create an ideal environment for a peaceful fishing trip. Many visitors find it a great local spot to relax and enjoy the sport.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit