Great Shiplock Park

Great Shiplock Park is a historical site located in Richmond, Virginia, situated along the James River. The park is centered around the Great Ship Lock, which was built between 1850 and 1854 as part of the James River and Kanawha Canal system. This lock was crucial in connecting the navigable part of the James River with the Richmond city dock, allowing ships to bypass the falls and continue their journey westward.

The park preserves an important piece of Richmond's industrial and transportation history. The restored shiplock and working canal lock serve as the focal point of the park, offering visitors a glimpse into 19th-century engineering and commerce. Interpretive displays provide information about the lock's history and its role in Richmond's development as a major port city.

Great Shiplock Park is also part of the larger James River Park System and serves as the eastern terminus of the Virginia Capital Trail. The park offers access to Chapel Island, which provides opportunities for fishing in the tidal James River. Visitors can expect to catch various fish species, including shad, white perch, rockfish, smallmouth bass, herring, and catfish.

In recent years, the park has undergone renovations and improvements, including landscaping enhancements and the addition of amenities to make it more accessible and enjoyable for visitors. The park now serves as a green gateway to Chapel Island and offers a blend of historical significance and natural beauty along Richmond's riverfront.