Parks and Facilities

Pleasant Grove House Musuem after Restoration

The history of Pleasant Grove is associated with many of the “founding families” of Fluvanna County and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Over 150 years ago, William Douglas Haden purchased property which today is simply known as Pleasant Grove Park. The 1854 Pleasant Grove House is the only one of its kind seen from the road along Highway 53. Although much like many other contemporary houses in Virginia in plan, its place in the County’s agrarian landscape and its role in the County’s social and economic history are significant.

Spring planting

The garden is conveniently located at Pleasant Grove Park and was developed jointly by the Virginia Cooperative Extension, Fluvanna Master Gardeners and FCPR. The garden promotes productive gardening practices and conserving resources to enhance the surrounding environment. It is also provides gardening opportunities for the physical and social benefit of the people and neighborhoods of Fluvanna County. There are 97 (10ft. x 15ft.) garden plots for a fee of $45.00 per year $50.00 after February 16, 2024.

Butterfly on a flower in the butterfly garden
Discover the unique alliance between plants and pollinators!

Pollinators move pollen from flower to flower as they search for nourishing nectar and pollen. Flowers become fertilized and are able to produce seeds and more plants. Some pollinators found in our area:

Sandy beach trail head sign

The county purchased 969 areas of farm land in 1994 when members of the Historical Society suggested that it would be an ideal location for a park public trail system. From the notion, the Fluvanna Heritage Trail Foundation was eventually formed that eventually Fluvanna Heritage Trail.  The Foundation continues to work with Fluvanna County Parks and Recreation on the trails today which have grown to 22 miles of trails for everyone to enjoy.

Monarch butterfly

Come join us and experience nature first hand at Fluvanna County’s Pleasant Grove Park. With the Rivanna River and adjacent forests and fields, we have every type of Piedmont Virginia habitat represented in the Park.

Over 20 miles of trails run through these habitats which contain a diverse population of wildflowers, animals and birds. Our river habitat is host to river otters, eagles and ducks while in our untended grassy fields you will see many songbirds, hawks, and rabbits. Walk our tree identification trail and learn the names of our many native Virginia trees.

Eastern trail head sign

Many know it simply as the “ Dog Park.” Located off Route 53, .5 miles off Route 15, this trailhead has become something spectacular. Amenities include a Dog Park – open to the public at no fee, 3 picnic shelters, an ADA accessible gravel dust trail that leads to banks of the Rivanna River, as well as a self guided fitness trail. Shelters can be reserved and rented or they are on a first come, first serve basis. 

dog at the dog park

Located at the Eastern Trailhead entrance, the Pleasant Grove Dog Park features a large and small dog run for your pets to exercise and interact in a safe environment with other dogs. Owners are solely liable for injuries or damage caused by their dogs. Owners are asked to read and abide by the rules and to teach their dog obedience for social interaction with other dogs.  

Waste disposal bags are provided so please remember to clean up after your pet. Dogs must be current on all vaccinations and we ask they be leashed when entering and exiting the Dog Park. 

Carysbrook gym

Only 10 miles from the Food Lion at Lake Monticello! On Route 15 between Fork Union and Palmyra, the athletic complex offers a variety of recreational facilities. Outside you will find  multi-use Softball\Soccer and youth baseball fields, a playground for all ages. Inside you’ll find a gymnasium for basketball, pickleball and volleyball. Facilities and fields are open to the public when not scheduled for league use. The Facility hours of operation vary from season to season, please call FCPR at 434-589-2016 or 434-842-3150 for more information.

Community Center

Located off Route 15, 1.3 miles from Dixie, on the right hand side, this former elementary school has been renovated. Outdoor amenities include a playground, outdoor basketball court, and picnic area, all open to the public. The Fluvanna Community Center is available for rentals that include large and small meeting rooms, an auditorium with a stage and kitchen. FCPR offers free WiFi, classes and workshops. THIS is the place to be in the southern end of the County.

participants at Kents Store Active Older Adult Center playing balloon ball

Fluvanna County's Senior Programs provide a variety of activities, for those 55 and over. Activities include charitable projects, exercise games, games with prizes, trips, guest speakers, and community forums. Monthly calendars are posted on the County website and on the Fluvanna Parks and Recreation Facebook page. All programs are free, unless otherwise indicated. We are actively seeking new members and volunteers are welcome. One-time visits are welcomed as well.

Fluvanna Community Center (Fork Union)

image of stone monument to the sesquecential of the emancipation proclamation with commemorative plaque

The new, updated Palmyra village walking tour was in development for two years by the Palmyra Area Revitalization Committee (PARC.) In consultation with the Historical Society regarding facts and accuracy, PARC members researched, wrote, expanded, and edited the previous version of the walking tour. PARC received assistance from the County with formatting, design and color printing.

Pictures below of Civil War Park

1. Bench in Civil War Park, provided and placed by the Palmyra Area Revitalization Committee (PARC)

Disc Golf

 

 

The Disc Golf Trail at Pleasant Grove Park, begins between the playground and the baseball fields. https://goo.gl/maps/ajToNvYTBhysYkZe7

 

 

 

 

 

 

Can you play disc golf with a regular Frisbee?