Chesapeake Arboretum
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Location
Chesapeake, Virginia
Address
624 Oak Grove Road, Chesapeake, VA 23320
Trails
About 3.5 miles
Park hours
Sunrise to sunset; confirm current details before visiting
The Chesapeake Arboretum is a 51-acre green space known as “Nature’s Classroom,” where wooded paths wind among gardens, bridges and mature hardwoods. It offers a quieter, nature-focused outing in the middle of the city, with room for a short stroll or a longer wander. The City lists approximately 3.5 miles of walking trails, Lake Hughes, picnic areas and the Caleb Williamson Farmhouse among the site’s amenities.[1]
The gardens bring a seasonal dimension to a visit: Camellia Cove is part of the American Camellia Trail, while labeled trees make the grounds a self-guided outdoor classroom. The city identifies the arboretum as a Virginia Treasure and says it was dedicated at its current site in November 1996.[2]
Plan a trip to Chesapeake Arboretum
Why visit the Chesapeake Arboretum?
Come for an easygoing walk beneath the tree canopy, a look at the themed gardens, or a picnic break among the greenery. The trails link several distinct features—including Lake Hughes, a stream, bridges and garden areas—so even a short visit can feel varied. It is also a useful choice for visitors who want an outdoor stop without leaving Chesapeake.
Start here
Begin at the parking area and use the city’s trail map to choose a route. The map identifies the farmhouse, gazebo, picnic area and gardens, along with the Central Loop, North Loop, South Loop, Native Tree Trail, Camellia Cove Trail and short Lake Hughes Trail. The routes vary in length, making it possible to tailor a walk to the time you have.[3]
For a first visit, follow a loop through the wooded trails and pause at the gardens or Lake Hughes. If flowers are a priority, check the city’s current information before heading out: blooms vary by season, and Camellia Cove is noted for its winter color.[4]
What to see and do
Follow the arboretum’s network of paths through mature hardwoods, across bridges and alongside Starr Run. Consult the trail map to choose among the named loops and shorter garden trails.
Camellia Cove and the other garden areas make this a relaxed stop for plant lovers. Camellia Cove is part of the American Camellia Trail.
Take a quiet walk and watch for birds along the wooded routes. Visit Chesapeake describes the arboretum as part of the Virginia Birding Trail’s South Chesapeake Loop.
Pair the arboretum with other local parks, trails and outdoor stops when planning a day in the city.
History and significance
The Caleb Williamson Farmhouse recalls the property’s agricultural past. According to the City of Chesapeake, the Williamson family occupied the farmhouse beginning in the 1800s; in 1923, the family invested in farming equipment and dairy cows, and the property became known as the Williamson Dairy. The dairy closed in 1970, and the farmhouse remained a residence until the City received the deed to the homestead in 1996.[5]
The arboretum is now a public setting for horticultural and environmental awareness, with trails, gardens and educational activities. The City says the Arboretum Foundation managed the site until 2014, when Chesapeake assumed park operations. A farmhouse renovation project began in 2023, with work planned to improve first-floor accessibility, add an accessible restroom and address structural repairs; check with the City for current project status and building access before visiting.[6]
Planning a visit
The arboretum is at 624 Oak Grove Road, Chesapeake, Virginia 23320. The City lists park hours as sunrise to sunset and provides a phone number, 757-382-6411, for Parks, Recreation and Tourism. Confirm current hours, access and any temporary closures before setting out.[7]
Bring comfortable walking shoes and allow time for the route you choose. The city map shows parking, picnic space and portable toilets, as well as trail entrances and garden locations; facilities and conditions can change, so check the current map and city listing before your visit.[8]
Nearby attractions
Great Bridge Battlefield and Waterways History Center
Explore Chesapeake’s Revolutionary War history and waterways heritage.
Great Dismal Swamp National Wildlife Refuge
Discover a much larger protected landscape of swamp forest, wildlife and outdoor recreation.
Norfolk Botanical Garden
Continue your garden outing at a major botanical destination in neighboring Norfolk.
Travel books and maps: Browse related Virginia travel books and maps on Amazon
References
- ↑ Chesapeake Arboretum, City of Chesapeake, City of Chesapeake. Retrieved 2026-10-24.
- ↑ Chesapeake Arboretum, City of Chesapeake, City of Chesapeake. Retrieved 2026-10-24.
- ↑ Arboretum Trail Map, City of Chesapeake, City of Chesapeake. Retrieved 2026-10-24.
- ↑ Explore the Chesapeake Arboretum, Visit Chesapeake, Chesapeake Convention & Visitors Bureau, April 6, 2026. Retrieved 2026-10-24.
- ↑ Chesapeake Arboretum, City of Chesapeake, City of Chesapeake. Retrieved 2026-10-24.
- ↑ Chesapeake Arboretum, City of Chesapeake, City of Chesapeake. Retrieved 2026-10-24.
- ↑ Chesapeake Arboretum, City of Chesapeake, City of Chesapeake. Retrieved 2026-10-24.
- ↑ Arboretum Trail Map, City of Chesapeake, City of Chesapeake. Retrieved 2026-10-24.