Sports & Recreation

Where the Wild Things Are...

"An early-morning walk is a blessing for the whole day."
~ Henry David Thoreau

Outdoor enthusiasts take pilgrimage to Chesapeake to find inner peace in some of the best-preserved, natural spots on the east coast. Find the perfect outlet for your passion in our Mid-Atlantic paradise. Camp, kayak, fish, hunt, golf or mountain bike in Mother Nature's playground.

Explore where the wild things really are in the 111,000 acres of forested wetland and wilderness in Chesapeake's Great Dismal Swamp National Wildlife Refuge. One of the best-preserved, natural spots on the east coast the Great Dismal Swamp National Wildlife Refuge is home to many mammal species, including black bears, bald eagles, tundra swans, snow geese and over 70 species of reptiles and amphibians.  Beautiful Lake Drummond - the second largest natural lake in Virginia - lies in the heart of the refuge with 3,100 acres of pristine dreamland for pleasure boats, kayaks and canoes.

Chesapeake's Northwest River Park runs along the Virginia Birding and Wildlife Trail and into the Atlantic through the Intercoastal Waterway. With picnic shelters, play areas, horse shoes, volleyball nets, a putt-putt course and an equestrian area, see for yourself why the Northwest River Park is a four-time "Best of Chesapeake" winner.

Not akin to the outdoors? Fear not, Chesapeake has lots to offer those who prefer indoor play. Chesapeake hosts two of the largest bowling alleys in the state. Chilled Ponds is a 90,000 square feet, dual-rink skating complex packed with fun. Partake in the public skating, or in figure skating or hockey lessons and later on, stick around and to watch the Chesapeake Admirals (an affiliate team of the American Hockey League) practice.