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Step 1
Plan to make reservations at the campground or cabins if visiting during peak seasons. The plantation is amidst a spattering of small towns with minimal hotel accommodations. Consider Richmond or Virginia Beach for lodging alternatives.
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Step 2
Arrive at Surry. Follow Chippokes Farm Road to the Mansion. Touring hours may alter somewhat so plan to be at the parking area by mid-morning. This two-story brick home represents the opulence of the era. The interior is beautifully restored, decorated throughout with period furniture.
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Step 3
Take a self-guided tour of the immediate grounds. Rolling hills, carpeted with a manicured lawn, descend toward the James River. There are numerous shade trees and a well-maintained formal garden.
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Step 4
Drive toward the River House. Looking northeast from the front of the mansion, the River House is noticeable on the next ridge. Take a left into the Farm and Forestry Museum and Sawmill Exhibit. The collection of implements on display date back over 200 years.
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Step 5
Return to the River House and access the College Run Trail. The trail begins back at the Mansion and continues past the River House and toward the James. The trail forks, becoming the Beach Access Trail, and continues to the river. The land on the distant shore is the early American settlement of Jamestown. A auto ferry, located at the small town of Scotland, connects the two shores.
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Step 6
Go back to River House and continue the drive northward, following the directional signs to the swimming pool. While swimming in the James looks inviting, it is prohibited. Therefore, the park has added a swimming pool as an amenity for its visitors.
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Step 7
Finish swimming and return to the vehicle. Backtrack toward the Mansion. From here, two trails access the river and are designated for mountain bikes. Bikes are also permitted on park roads. The roads are narrow, so follow necessary safety precautions.
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Step 8
Take a right at Chippokes Farm Road and follow directional signs to the Equestrian Center. The horse trail encompasses the southern section of the park, where one can ride along Lower Chippokes Creek through a thick virgin forest. There is a fee involved and other restrictions apply.
