Riverview Park — Attraction in Charlottesville

Nice park. There was a decent-sized playground for the kids. We hopped on the Rivanna Trail from the park, but I believe there is a small loop within the park itself that can be walked. There's about a 2 mile paved portion of the trail from the parking lot, which takes you a little beyond the 250 overpass. Afterwards it's unpaved. The paved portion is nice and wide, which is good because the trail is pretty popular. Out of the other trails we have walked/hiked in the area, this is probably the busiest we've been to. With the paved trail being wide, it makes it easy for people to pass including bikes. The trail is relatively flat and easy. There is a decent number of parking spots at the park, but they filled up pretty quickly while we were there so I would suggest going early.

Note: There was a sign that said dogs are off-leash on the park Tuesday-Thursday. Even though we were outside the park limits and it was a Sunday there was a decent number of dogs that were off-leash. We didn't have any issues, but just wanted to mention...

I have been utilizing this park for 16 years and the city makes minor improvements every couple years. The park has a nice playground for children under 12 and slightly older children. There is a paved half mile loop for walking , running, biking etc. The trail connects to a paved section of the Rivanna trail for those looking for a longer run, bike ride or walk. You can also walk, bike etc North from the park using the paved trail to the bridge which crosses the Rivanna to gain access to a more primitive trail which runs along the West side of the river. You can also use the park as a put in point or exit point for canoeing, kayaking or tubing, the water is currently low so I wouldn't recommend canoeing at this time. There are porta potties on site but no running water. The Rivanna River Company maintains a location along the river North of the park. They rent Tubes, Kayaks, paddle...

PROS: Our whole family loves it here as does our homeschool group. The play equipment is great, second only to Pen Park. All in all....nice park with riverside play on a small dirt bach and the riverside walking trail is great. Great place for homeschool kids to make new homeschool friends. Also super close to Meade Park for a 2 parks in 1 day fun trip.GREAT KAYAK PUT IN OR TAKE OUT.

CONS: PortAJohns aren't cleaned enough. No covered shelters. Bring camp chairs or picnic blankets as there aren't enough places to sit. Not ideal for ball or field play - small grass areas are riddled with dog poo and dogs often walk unleashed with owners so keep small or curious children close to you. UNSAFE steps to river mean well but erosion has dropped water too far down and when rain raises the river level , it is too deep and way too fast for kids who are used to going down there and find a...