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Virgin Islands National Park, renowned for its breathtaking beauty, covers about 60 percent of St. John and nearly all of Hassel Island in Charlotte Amalie harbor on St. Thomas.
Created in 1956, the park preserves 9,620 acres of land — 5,000 of which were donated by philanthropist Laurance Rockefeller. In 1962, a 5,600-acre underwater area was added to protect delicate coral reefs and other marine environments.
Within its borders are protected bays of crystal blue-green waters teeming with coral reef life, white sandy beaches shaded by seagrape trees and coconut palms, and tropical forests that provide habitat for more than 800 plant species.
The park also preserves relics from the pre-Colombian Amerindian civilization, remains of the Danish Colonial sugar plantations and reminders of African slavery and the subsistence culture that followed during the century after emancipation — all part of the rich cultural history of the park.
The most popular areas in the park are Trunk Bay, one of many beautiful beaches along the north shore of St. John, and the ruins of Annaberg Plantation, once a sugar factory that played an important role in the island's Colonial and post-emancipation eras.
Park staff offer a variety of interpretive programs, including guided walks through historical and natural areas, snorkeling tours, cultural heritage programs and demonstrations, and evening campground programs.
Some programs may require advance registration and transportation fees. The number of participants is limited on some programs.
Camping is permitted only at Cinnamon Bay campground. No backcountry or beach camping is permitted within the park.
Accommodations at Cinnamon Bay campground include bare sites, sites prepared with tent-covered platforms and cottages.
Cottages and prepared sites are equipped with cooking supplies and linens. A camp store sells food, beverages and other supplies. A campground restaurant serves breakfast, lunch and dinner.
This park is in the U.S. Virgin Islands and is administered by the U.S. National Park Service.
Outdoor Activities |
