HISTORY is made at Chippokes Plantation State Park, VA with Robin on the Road 2025

Join Robin on the Road, your dedicated concierge for travel insights, for an in-depth exploration of Chippokes Plantation State Park. Situated along the James River in Surry County, this park encompasses a broad spectrum of Virginia’s history, from prehistoric times to the modern era. Once submerged beneath an ancient ocean, the area is abundant with fossils, readily found along the shoreline.
The Powhatan Indian tribe, once led by Chief Chipoaks, established a significant village on these grounds. However, the earliest verifiable historical records pertain to early American colonists. The land has been continuously farmed for over four centuries, primarily by absentee owners until Albert Jones acquired it. His successful distillery, known for producing peach and apple brandy, was notable enough to spare his home during the Civil War. Mr. Jones enhanced the river house and constructed the plantation residence.
In 1918, Victor and Evelyn Stewart purchased the property, undertaking significant renovations to both the house and the surrounding grounds, shaping them into their present form. Evelyn Stewart remained on the estate until her passing in 1969, after which the plantation was entrusted to the Commonwealth of Virginia, leading to the park’s official opening in 1970.
Today, Chippokes Plantation State Park offers accommodations for both small and large campers, as well as tent camping. Visitors can enjoy hiking, biking, equestrian trails, and seasonal tours of both the Farm and Forestry Museum and the Plantation house.
The information provided is sourced from “Chippokes Plantation State Park and The Jones-Stewart Mansion: A Brief History” by Rosemary Green, FOC Volunteer, published by The Friends of Chippokes Plantation State Park.
395 Chippokes Park Rd
Surry, VA 23883
www.chippokes.com
757-294-3728
All photos and videos are courtesy of Robin on the Road, except for the overview image of the river grasslands. Music featured is licensed from YouTube.
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