The park contains the site of the 'Free Black Settlement' established by families who were freed in the early 1800s.
It sits on land that was formerly part of a 17th-century plantation.
The park includes the Cemetery of the Free Black Settlement, where residents were interred between the early 1800s and the Civil War.
The interpretive center showcases archaeological artifacts recovered from the site.
The park's trail network connects to the Virginia Capital Trail system.
The facility serves as a designated site on the Virginia Civil War Trails network.
Freedom Park is a 600-acre historic and recreational site in James City County, Virginia. It contains the site of one of the earliest free Black settlements in the United States, dating back to 1803. The park preserves the reconstructed 17th-century Site of the Freedom Park Cemetery and the Hovenden House. Visitors can access over 20 miles of multi-use trails for mountain biking and hiking. The park features an interpretive center detailing the history of the free Black settlement. It also houses an arboretum with a collection of native trees. A dedicated mountain bike trail system is maintained by the Eastern Virginia Mountain Bike Association.
The reconstructed cabin and historical signage at the entrance to the Free Black Settlement area.
Download the trail map from the official website before arrival as cell service can be spotty in wooded areas.
Check the park's status on the James City County website before visiting during or after heavy rainfall, as trails may close to prevent erosion.
Wear insect repellent during the summer months due to the heavily forested terrain.
Attempting to bike on the designated pedestrian-only interpretive trails.
Trails may close temporarily following severe weather events for maintenance.
Leash all pets at all times and follow 'leave no trace' principles on all trails.
