Parks & Recreation Department - Parks & Facilities

Great Bridge Lock Park

The Park, located along the Intracoastal Waterway just off Battlefield Blvd., is named for the Corps of Engineers' lock which separates the salt water of the river from the fresh water of the canal. This 19 acre park features a two-lane boat ramp, picnic shelters and a foot trail alon the north shoreline and through the wooded western portion of the park. There is a large play area, provisions for indoor toilets and extensive fishing and crabbing areas. Bleachers permit spectators to view the many yachts which transit the lock.

This is also the site for the annual re-enactment of the historic Battle of Great Bridge . In 1775, 200 feet from the park entrance, American troops defeated British forces in the first battle of the Revoluntionary War fought on Virginia soil. the route through Great Bridge was the only route by which Norfolk could be approached by land. This was a valuable area for the location of the British fort. William Woodford's Virginia rifleman defended the passage. When Lord Dunmore's British regulars attempted to cross the swamp, on December 9, 1775, they were cut to pieces by the fire of the riflemen. This defeat forced Lord Dunmore to evacuate Norfolk.

Map to the Park