Three Lakes Park & Nature Center
4.6(1,885)4.6 out of 5 stars, 1885 reviews Richmond, VA
About Three Lakes Park & Nature Center
Three Lakes Park & Nature Center provides a multifaceted outdoor experience centered around three scenic lakes, featuring diverse walking paths (paved, gravel, dirt), two distinct playgrounds (one shaded), and abundant picnic facilities including a covered shelter. It stands out for its serene natural setting, opportunities for wildlife viewing (specifically turtles), a large accessible pier, and designated fishing spots, making it a versatile destination for family outings and relaxation despite the Nature Center's ongoing closure.
What parents should know
Summarized from real visitor reviews.
Best for: Family walks, runs, or leisurely strolls through nature.Playdates for children at either of the two playgrounds.Picnics and outdoor family gatherings using the available tables and covered shelter.Casual fishing activities.Anyone seeking a peaceful retreat from daily hustle.
Why families love it
- Multiple well-maintained walking/running paths circling the lakes, with options for paved, gravel, and dirt terrain.
- Two well-kept playgrounds: one in full sun, the other offering some shade.
- Several picnic areas, including a covered shelter ideal for gatherings.
- Opportunity to watch turtles and other wildlife in a calming natural environment.
- Designated spots for fishing around the lakes.
- A large pier that is accessible for kids, even while the Nature Center is under construction.
Insider tips
- Supervise young children very closely, especially on paths where edges have steep drops into the lake.
- Check the county website for updated information regarding the Nature Center's reopening, as it's closed until at least Fall 2025.
- Consider bringing hand sanitizer in case restroom hand dryers are still broken or if facilities are not pristine.
- Avoid feeding the wildlife to maintain their natural behavior and health.
- For a quieter experience and to avoid larger crowds, loud music, and potential litter, visit on weekdays or early weekend mornings.
- Wear appropriate footwear suitable for varied terrain, including paved, gravel, and dirt paths with roots.
Good to know before you go
- Fair-weather weekend afternoons if you prefer quiet trails, wish to avoid larger crowds, loud car music, or increased litter.
- Visiting with the expectation of utilizing the Nature Center building or its indoor facilities, as it is closed for construction until Fall 2025.
- Leaving very young children unsupervised near lake paths due to reported steep drops.
- Expecting consistently pristine restrooms, as maintenance reports vary.
- Some path edges have steep drops into the lake, requiring close supervision for young children.
- Crowds
- Generally described as 'pretty lively' with people engaging in various activities.
- Value
- No entrance fee or specific pricing mentioned, indicating free public access to the park's facilities and trails.
- Food
- Outside food is implicitly allowed and encouraged due to the presence of multiple picnic tables and a covered picnic area.
- Accessibility
- Paved paths around the largest lake are suitable for strollers and potentially wheelchairs.
- Safety
- Parents are advised to be aware of 'steep drops into the lake' along certain path edges, requiring active supervision for children.
What parents say
"Really cute park. Perfect for families, walks etc. there are multiple running/waking paths that circle the lakes. Some paths are paved, some are gravel. There are a number of areas where you can fish, or sit close to the lake. Be aware if you have kids there are some areas of the paths where the edges have steep drops into the lake. The are several areas with picnic tables including a covered area that can be used for parties/gatherings. There are two playgrounds that are well kept. One playground is full sun. The other has a little bit of shade. There is a bathroom area near the playgrounds"
a month ago
"Enjoyed walking the trails here. The place was pretty lively; people fishing, walking, picnicking, and kids playing on the playground. Well maintained and great views of the park."
a month ago
"Very nice park with plenty of walking. Area for the kids to play and just enjoy the nature."
in the last week
Reviews sourced from public Google data.