Sandy Point State Forest

Sandy Point State Forest is a protected forest covering about 2,000 acres with diverse habitats, including marshlands that extend along the Mattaponi River. The varied landscapes offer different settings for exploration and nature observation.

The Virginia Department of Forestry acquired this land from The Nature Conservancy in 2002 to protect threatened forests in the region. This purchase marked an important step in preserving the area for future generations.

The forest balances recreation with nature protection, where visitors can hike, fish, and watch wildlife in a managed landscape.

Visitors need a State Forest Use Permit for recreational activities, and the entrance is at the end of Route 641 with parking for horse trailers. Checking permit requirements beforehand and arriving early helps visitors make the most of their time here.

The forest contains a notable river bend where the Mattaponi River narrows into a tight channel with depths exceeding 40 feet. This feature creates an unexpected contrast to the gentler marsh landscape found elsewhere.