Sharp’s Island in Richmond, Virginia

Sharp's Island (in foreground) in the James River.

Geology, history, recreation, public art, and natural wonder can all found on an acre of granite and sand known as Sharp’s Island.

The Piedmont meets the Coastal Plain along the James River, with north-south rapids bisecting the island. The area makes for amazing fishing, especially during the spring. Members of the Sharp family lived on the island in a two-story house for 75 years before the home was washed away by a flood.

Visitors can boat up to the island from Richmond’s Ancarrow’s Landing in a johnboat or canoe. During the summer, river levels rise creating numerous swimming holes along the banks. The island is also home to an A-Frame cabin and a tent platform for camping. There is also a Little Free Library and a massive metal sculpture known as The Angler for visitors to explore.