A Journey Through Virginia’s Natural and Historical Landscapes
Understanding the impact oNational Park Week offers an exciting opportunity to explore the incredible diversity of the United States’ national parks. This year, from April 20 to April 28, the National Park Service invites everyone to participate in a nine-day celebration that showcases not only the vast network of parks but also the efforts to preserve our nation’s natural and cultural heritage.
National Park Day coincides with Earth Day on April 22th
This alignment underscores the commitment of the National Park Service to environmental education and stewardship. As a gesture to encourage visits, entrance fees are waived on the first day, making it easier for all to explore and appreciate these stunning landscapes and historical sites.
National parks are vital for preserving natural biodiversity and cultural heritage
They provide a sanctuary for countless species of flora and fauna while offering humans a space to reconnect with nature. Additionally, these parks serve as living museums, teaching us about past civilizations and pivotal moments in history. They remind us of our responsibilities to the planet and each other, promoting sustainability and conservation.
How to Celebrate? Visit a Park! Discover Virginia’s National Parks
The best way to celebrate National Park Week is by visiting a park. Whether you’re near a famous national park or a smaller historic site, each offers unique insights and experiences. With more than 400 national parks across the country, chances are there’s one near you waiting to be explored.
Virginia’s Rich Selection of National Parks and Monuments
Virginia is home to a remarkable array of national parks and monuments, each with its own unique appeal:
National Parks
Shenandoah National Park
Shenandoah National Park, located just 75 miles from Washington, D.C., spans over 200,000 acres in the Blue Ridge Mountains of Virginia. Known for its stunning vistas, cascading waterfalls, and diverse wildlife, the park offers over 500 miles of trails, including parts of the Appalachian Trail.
The Skyline Drive, a highlight of the park, provides breathtaking views from nearly 70 overlooks along its 105-mile route, especially vibrant during the fall. The park caters to a variety of activities from hiking and bird watching to more adventurous pursuits like rock climbing and horseback riding, making it an ideal destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.
National Historical Parks
Appomattox Court House
Historic site where the Confederate Army surrendered, effectively ending the Civil War.
Cedar Creek & Belle Grove
Site of significant Civil War battles in the Shenandoah Valley.
Colonial National Historical Park
Includes Jamestown and Yorktown, key sites in America’s early history and the Revolutionary War.
Harpers Ferry
Historic town known for John Brown’s raid and pivotal in Civil War and African American history.
Colonial National Historical Park / The Pew Charitable Trusts
Harpers Ferry National Historic Park / The Pew Charitable Trusts
National Monuments
Arlington House, The Robert E. Lee Memorial
Memorial to Robert E. Lee, focusing on his post-Civil War role in promoting peace.
Booker T. Washington National Monument
Birthplace of the influential educator and leader Booker T. Washington.
Fort Monroe National Monument
Spanning American history from Native presence to the Civil War era.
George Washington Birthplace National Monument
Birthplace and early home of George Washington.
U.S. National Park Service
National Seashores
Assateague Island National Seashore
Assateague Island National Seashore is a unique and dynamic barrier island located off the coasts of Maryland and Virginia. Known for its wild horses that roam the sandy beaches, the island offers a captivating natural landscape shaped by ocean winds and waves.
Visitors can explore the island’s diverse ecosystems, including sandy beaches, salt marshes, maritime forests, and coastal bays. Whether you’re interested in camping, bird watching, kayaking, or simply enjoying the serene beach setting, Assateague provides a distinctive and memorable outdoor experience in a constantly changing environment.
National Military Parks
Fredericksburg & Spotsylvania National Military Park
Site of four major Civil War battles with significant casualties.
Manassas National Battlefield Park
Site of the First and Second Battles of Bull Run, critical early and mid-war conflicts.
Petersburg National Battlefield
Site of the lengthy and decisive Siege of Petersburg.
Richmond National Battlefield Park
Focuses on Richmond’s extensive Civil War history.
Petersburg National Battlefield Park / TripAdvisor
U.S. National Park Service
National Historic Trails
Captain John Smith Chesapeake National Historic Trail
Follows the exploration routes of Captain John Smith around Chesapeake Bay.
Overmountain Victory National Historic Trail
Marks the route used by Patriot militia during the Revolutionary War.
Potomac Heritage National Scenic Trail
Explores heritage and recreational opportunities along the Potomac River.
Star-Spangled Banner National Historic Trail
Details events leading to the creation of the U.S. national anthem.
Washington-Rochambeau Revolutionary Route
Commemorates the French and American troops’ march to victory at Yorktown.
National Historic Sites
Memorial Parkways
Maggie L. Walker National Historic Site
Home of Maggie L. Walker, highlighting her work in civil rights and economic empowerment.
George Washington Memorial Parkway
Designed for recreational driving, linking sites related to American history and natural beauty.
U.S. National Park Service
National Park Service
Other Notable Parks and Sites
Appalachian Trail
A vast 2,190-mile trail stretching from Georgia to Maine, traversing Virginia’s Appalachian Mountains.
Blue Ridge Parkway
Scenic route offering stunning views of the Appalachian landscape.
Cape Henry Memorial
Commemorates the first landing of English colonists in 1607.
Great Falls Park
Known for dramatic waterfalls and natural beauty close to the nation’s capital.
Green Springs
Represents rural architecture and agricultural history of Virginia’s Piedmont.
Prince William Forest Park
A serene getaway featuring woods and streams.
Wolf Trap National Park for the Performing Arts
Unique blend of natural park and cultural performance space.
Yorktown Battlefield
Integral Revolutionary War site, marking the final major battle for American independence.
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