It’s fun to learn, and to discover memorable sights, new ideas, and unique experiences. Weldan Pond offers the opportunity to discover the expected, the unexpected, and even rediscover things you may have somehow forgotten amid the demands of everyday life.
Perhaps the greatest thing here is simply immersing yourself in the natural beauty that is Weldan Pond. We are situated on roughly 70 acres of forest & pond, and the life here is abundant.
We have over 3 miles of trails and pathways for hiking and leisurely strolls alike. Nature abounds and our pathways allow you to experience it comfortably. You’ll see beautiful plant life, including the rare lady slipper orchid growing naturally, several varieties of ferns, moss and mushrooms, and so many varieties of trees.
Our forests are natural and a fallen tree in the woods normally stays there until nature reclaims it. Trees are almost all hardwood and much of it is old growth forest. That means the forest’s canopy keeps the forest floor relatively clear of undergrowth and much of the woodlands around us are easy to explore as a result. You’ll see white oak, red oak, sycamore, poplar, pecan, elm, locust, gum, dogwood, beech, maple and many more.
Take a hike to see Puppy Rock and enjoy the giant boulders and two creeks that combine with an underground spring to keep our two large ponds full of fresh flowing water.
Ducks on Lower Weldan Pond
Wildlife is abundant at Weldan with deer, wild turkey, fox, along with squirrels, rabbits and groundhogs, of course. There is an occasional beaver, even a small den of black bear living just off the edge of the property that are spotted now and then. Maybe you’ll find something we’ve not discovered yet.
And then there are the ponds. Upper Weldan Pond, at just over 4 acres, is at a slightly higher elevation than is Lower Weldan Pond (6 acres+) and both are stocked with large mouth bass, bream, sunfish, catfish, and more. We practice catch and release and we’d love for you to help a child or a spouse or a buddy to experience the fun that a great fishing day offers everyone.
Take a canoe or kayak and explore the pond’s shoreline or use them to find that fishing hole where the best catches are always discovered. After a day of discovery, the rocking of a canoe on a gentle pond can be an incredibly relaxing activity as well.
We boast a beautiful night sky and if you’re a city dweller, you’ll be amazed at how bright it can be on a clear night and how many stars and planets you’ll see that are hidden by big city lights back home. We’ll also recommend an app to help you understand what you’re seeing in that beautiful night sky.
If you’re feeling ambitious, we’d love to have you help out on one of our raised bed gardens or with some of the fruit trees we’re just beginning to plant.
One of the most remarkable things Nature can provide that is so difficult to find in today’s world is the ability to just experience a bit of solitude. One of my favorite spots is on the back side of Upper Weldan Pond relaxed in an Adirondack chair with nothing in site but the forest and whatever wildlife happens by. There is even a tree stand, put up years ago for hunting, but now used as a great vantage point to view wildlife that passes by without their knowing you’re close by.
Maybe you'll discover, as we did, one of the small groups of Lady Slippers. They're wild orchids and somewhat rare. We'll show you where they are if you like.
Of course discoveries don’t stop with the natural world. Weldan Pond is a great home base for exploring history. Southside Virginia was a hot spot in 1864 and 1865 during the American Civil War and the living history at Petersburg Battlefield Park, Five Forks Battlefield, and Pamplin Park are amazing. There was even a Battle of Dinwiddie Courthouse and you can find more about it at the Dinwiddie Historical Society. We can even help you arrange for a private guided tour if you wish. Richmond Battlefield Park and Appomattox Courthouse are great day trips as well. Let us know in advance if you’d like to relic hunt at Weldan.
Long before the Civil War Native Americans lived in the area using nearby Stony Creek as a source of food and water. Arrowheads abound and we’ll be glad to show you some of our collection and encourage you to keep your eyes open and maybe find one of your own as well. a
And when you’re done experiencing history, spend a couple of days exploring Dinwiddie County and Southside Virginia:
Visit a dairy at Richlands Dairyand try their amazing homemade Butter Pecan Ice Cream family recipe where the pecans are hand cooked in a buttery skillet.
Check out the amazing produce at the All Good Things Farm Market.
A horse lover? The Five Forks Unit of Petersburg National Battlefield now has approx 8 miles of trails open to the public and can be used for hiking, biking, and horseback riding.
Enjoy herbal teas and learn about medicinal herbs at Willow’s Bend. It’s also a great place for breakfast, lunch or dinner (by reservation only).
Head over to the large Antique Mall in nearby Blackstone, or explore any of the man antique stores throughout the county.
The Appomattox River offers great canoe/kayak trips for floating or a bit of whitewater, too. We’ll be glad to help you find an outfitter and arrange a trip.
Speaking of rivers and fun on the water, Lake Chesdin is a 3,100-acre water supply reservoir and only a 15 min drive away.
And if nothing on that list gets your attention, check out DiscoverDinwiddie.com for more information.
We look forward to hearing about what you’ve discovered as you explore Weldan Pond and the surrounding area. We’re confident your discoveries will bring you back again and again.