Charlottesville's Largest City Park
280 Acres of Recreation Along the Rivanna River
1300 Pen Park Rd · Parking: Free parking available throughout the park near trailheads, playgrounds, pavilions, and the golf course clubhouse
Pen Park Services
1.5 miles of scenic riverside trails and 10-station outdoor fitness course through natural woodlands.
18-hole golf course at Pen Park offering year-round play with clubhouse and pro shop.
A 10-station outdoor fitness trail winding through Pen Park's natural wooded setting toward the Rivanna River.
About Pen Park
Pen Park is Charlottesville's largest city park at 280 acres, located off East Rio Road on Pen Park Road. The land has retained its name for over 200 years, and the City of Charlottesville acquired the final parcels by 1979 to create what locals call the 'gem' of the city park system. The park's name is so significant that Park Street in Charlottesville takes its name from this historic green space. With frontage along the Rivanna River and diverse recreational facilities, Pen Park serves as a central gathering place for outdoor recreation, family activities, and community events across the region.
What People Are Saying
“Pen Park is a must-visit when you’re in Charlottesville! This spacious, family-friendly park offers shaded walking trails, a fantastic playground (with separate areas for little ones and older kids), tennis courts, and picnic spots perfect for a quick lunch. It’s clean, welcoming, and gives you a true taste of local outdoor life—ideal for visitors wanting a relaxing, low-key stop. Don’t miss it!”
“I came here for the farmers market on Wednesday. The vendors were all extremely friendly. There was a great selection to look at and choose from. They had Mexican Tacos, a drink truck, goat cheese, sourdough bread and lots of produce of course! The great thing was they had a huge tree and a bunch of smaller one to help keep it cool. I am new to the state and it was great to find such a great market in the middle of the week!”
“Very well kept park. There's a big playground, a tree house, a baseball field, lots of walking trails, something for everyone.”
4.6 ★ avg rating · Verified Mar 27, 2026
Our Location
| Mon | 6:00 AM – 10:00 PM |
| Tue | 6:00 AM – 10:00 PM |
| Wed | 6:00 AM – 10:00 PM |
| Thu | 6:00 AM – 10:00 PM |
| Fri | 6:00 AM – 10:00 PM |
| Sat | 6:00 AM – 10:00 PM |
| Sun | 6:00 AM – 10:00 PM |