The largest municipal park (8,000+ acres) east of the Mississippi River, Newport News Park offers a wide variety of activities, including hiking, biking, mountain biking, picnicking, paddleboating, canoeing, archery and freshwater fishing. Year-round camping is available at 188 campsites, most of which include grills, electrical hook-ups and concrete pads. Each campsite loop has a separate facilities building with hot showers and restrooms. The Park also includes an 18-hole championship disc golf course and a 30-acre aeromodel flying field. Boat and bicycle rentals are available and there is a and camp store. Fishing licenses (available at many area sporting goods stores) are required for Virginia residents and non-residents 16 years or age and older. The Discovery Center has hands-on activities, historical artifacts and nature displays, is located in the park, across from the Dam No. 1 Bridge. Floral gardens, include the Japanese Peace Garden with an authentic tea house. Newport News Park is part of Virginia’s Birding and Wildlife Trail.