ECSP Hosts

Virginia Department of Conservation and Resources

Just across the James River from historic Jamestown in beautiful Surry County, Chippokes is one of the oldest continually farmed plantations in the country. A working farm since 1619, the park offers modern recreational activities and a glimpse of life in a bygone era. Visitors tour the historic area with its antebellum mansion and outbuildings, stroll through formal gardens, and view antique equipment at the Chippokes Farm and Forestry Museum. A campground and four overnight cabins allow visitors to stay on the historic grounds. The park has a visitor center with a gift shop. It also provides opportunities to bike, hike, ride horseback and picnic. Chippokes also offers wedding packages and meeting facilities.

Back Bay Amateur Astronomers

We are a group of dedicated amateur astronomers drawn together by a common interest in astronomy. Our club was founded on December 14, 1978 by members dedicated to promoting amateur astronomy. The BBAA is a 501(c)(3) non-profit scientific and educational organization dedicated to "Bringing Astronomy to the People of Hampton Roads". We primarily achieve our club’s motto by interacting with the public through numerous outreach events every month at various locations around the Hampton Roads and surrounding area. Our members range in age from preteens to seniors and our members experience level runs from novice to professionals. The BBAA is an active member society of the Astronomical League and a part of NASA's Night Sky Network. While most of our members come from the South side Hampton Roads cities of Virginia Beach, Chesapeake, Norfolk, Portsmouth, and Suffolk, we have several members from the peninsula, outlying counties, and neighboring states. We work very hard to ensure that new members are welcomed and encouraged. Thank you for looking at our website. If you have any questions please feel free to email any or all of the club officers.

Friends of Chippokes State Park

Our Mission -"Here To Serve". The mission of the Friends of Chippokes State Park is to identify and promote activities to enhance the cultural and natural resources of Chippokes State Park. In furtherance of our mission, the Friends of Chippokes shall actively encourage donations and fund-raising to support the Park. The knowledgeable and friendly volunteer staff at Chippokes love our park and are committed to giving all our guests a memorable and outstanding outdoor experience, rich in natural beauty and cultural history. The Friends of Chippokes develop, staff, and finance a number of programs and activities for our guests all year 'round.