Facilities

History

Freedom Park has a rich historical background dating back to the 1650s. This park is the site of an 18th Century cemetery, the Revolutionary War Battle of Spencer’s Ordinary (1781) and a 17th Century domicile which is revealing much archaeological research of the early colonial period (1680-1730). Freedom Park was also home to one of the nation's earliest Free Black Settlements in America from 1803-1850. Three historically accurate recreated cabins are located in the park, and are furnished with items authentic to the period.

Trails

This 600-acre forested retreat also features approximately 2 miles of multiuse trails, including a 1-mile ADA accessible paved trail, and more than 20 miles of mountain bike trails winding through historical sites, forests and along creeks and open meadows. The bike trails are designed, built, and maintained by the Eastern Virginia Mountain Bike Association. Trails are closed to bikes during inclement weather to prevent trail degradation. Riders are encouraged to call 757-259-4022 to check trails status.

Botanical Garden

The Williamsburg Botanical Garden is also located at Freedom Park. Members of the Garden developed and maintain the area which features more than 800 species of native vegetation. The Garden also offers monthly educational programs, and special events throughout the year.

GoApe

Freedom Park is home to the GoApe Treetop Adventure Course and Treetop Junior Course. The Treetop Adventure course allows participants to explore the park from an otherwise unobtainable vantage point while navigating through the treetops using zip lines, obstacles and Tarzan swings. The park also features the Treetop Junior Course, a smaller zip line circuit that can be enjoyed by the younger adventurers. For more information and fees please visit goape.com or call 1-800-971-8271.

Interpretive Center

The Freedom Park Interpretive Center features exhibits of artifacts recovered during the construction of the park as well as an interactive kiosk that provides visitors a visual tour of the park, its amenities, wildlife and history. The center includes:

• Indoor and outdoor wood-burning fireplaces
• Meeting room and kitchen
• Outdoor access to restroom facilities when the Interpretive Center is closed
• Raised brick patio
• Wi-fi connectivity

Outdoor Classroom

Check out the park's newest amenity, the Freedom Park outdoor classroom! It features 10 locally sourced white oak benches that will seat approximately 40 people as well as a kiosk featuring a tri-fold whiteboard. To reserve the classroom, click the link below under Related Documents

• The classroom may be reserved daily from 9 a.m.-8 p.m., or until the park closes
• A one-hour minimum is required for all reservations
• Use of the white-board kiosk is allowed only for reservations
• A Park Instructor or Historical Interpreter may be requested for your group reservation at an additional rate of $20/hour. Staff will only be provided should availability allow

Rentals

Picnic shelters and meeting room space are available to rent. View our full list of Rental Fees.

Tents

 Single free-standing canopies, tents and other types of portable shade structures up to 16’x16’ are permitted only on the Interpretive Center patio and must be anchored with weights or water barrels per manufacturer’s recommendations, with tie downs marked in a noticeable manner. Larger tents may be put up on the patio as part of a facility rental, and require additional fees.     

Related Documents

• Annual Instructional Class Park Use Permit (PDF)
• Freedom Park Trail Map (PDF)
• Indoor Facility Request Form (PDF)
• Mobile Food Vending Park Use Permit (PDF)
• Outdoor Classroom Reservation Form (PDF)
• Public Facilities Rules & Regulations (PDF)
• Shelter Reservation Form (PDF)

Dog Rules

Freedom Park is a dog-friendly park. Dogs must be under complete and immediate control of owners at all times and must be on a leash no longer than 8 feet. Owners are responsible for removing dog waste. Litter bags are available and guests should use only what they need while using the trail.