A temple-style courthouse and trails through protected landscapes show how many different ways there are to explore Buckingham County. Historic architecture and educational history sit alongside riverbanks, wildlife watching and hikes. There are also plenty of options to enjoy the outdoors: multi-use trails are suitable for several activities, while other trails wind through diverse habitats.
Trails, Riverbanks and Wildlife
The Featherfin Wildlife Management Area covers almost 3,084 acres in Prince Edward, Appomattox and Buckingham Counties. It has ten miles of river frontage along the Appomattox River, and numerous trails cross the area, offering opportunities for hiking and wildlife watching. The area is used primarily on foot and has no motorised access. Parking is available along state-maintained roads that cross or border the area. Permits may be required to visit; check the applicable requirements in advance.
James River State Park has 22 miles of multi-use trails for hiking, cycling and horseback riding. At Holliday Lake State Park, hiking trails wind through diverse habitats rich in wildlife. You can therefore choose between different kinds of outdoor experiences: multi-use trails for various activities, or trails where habitats and wildlife watching are part of the nature experience. Horsepen Lake adds a specific waterside destination to the area’s natural attractions. The lake covers 19 acres and is located within the Horsepen Wildlife Management Area.
Buildings Tell Different Stories
The Buckingham Court House Historic District retains its 19th-century character, with few modern alterations. It includes a temple-style courthouse completed in 1822, with a portico. Thomas Jefferson drew up the plans at the district’s request. Its architecture and design history give the district a historical dimension distinct from the educational institutions and homes also associated with Buckingham County.
The Buckingham Female Collegiate Institute Historic District preserves the surviving buildings of Virginia’s first state-chartered women’s college. The school opened in 1838 and operated until 1863; the buildings are now private homes. The site of the Buckingham Training School is now Stephen J. Ellis Memorial Park. It is closely connected to local African Americans’ efforts to gain access to education during segregation.
Individual homes also bring different periods to life. Locust Grove was Peter Francisco’s home from 1794 until the mid-1820s and was restored by the Society of the Descendants of Peter Francisco. Chellowe is a three-part Palladian house in Buckingham County, begun around 1820 and completed around 1840. Woodside was built later: this Greek Revival-style house was completed in 1860 on the southern edge of the Buckingham courthouse district.
The Seven Islands Archaeological and Historic District offers another historical perspective. Located near the confluence of the James and Slate Rivers in Buckingham and Fluvanna Counties, it includes both prehistoric and historic features. The area’s historical range thus extends from buildings and institutions to archaeological and historic sites.
Local Produce and Seasonal Train Rides
Spring Hollow Farm Market in Buckingham County offers fresh local produce, Amish baked goods and daily lunch specials. The selection may vary. Dillwyn is a specific place to start a train ride: the Buckingham Branch Railroad was founded in Buckingham County, and its train crews operate spring and autumn excursion trains as well as Santa Trains there. Timetables are seasonal. Check the schedule before your visit if you plan to arrange your trip around a train ride.
Discover More Destinations
Discover more destinations: Dillwyn, Prince William, Galax, Amelia County, Botetourt, Emporia, Prince Edward County, King William County.
For the main travel overview: Virginia.
