Culpeper Battlefields State Park

Culpeper Battlefields State Park These preserved battlefield lands tell the stories of the four major Civil War battles fought in Culpeper County.

Under development, this day-use park currently features interpretive walking and equestrian trails, as well as a visitor center.

05/29/2026

Did you know the Cedar Mountain battlefield has been farmed well before the battle on August 9, 1862 and continues to be farmed by many of the same families who have called this place home for generations?

This past week hay was being cut in the center of the battlefield where heavy combat occurred. Cultivating and harvesting hay doesn’t involve much ground disturbance and that helps protect sensitive archaeological sites both known and unknown while ensuring the property remains productive. The local farming community has been instrumental in creating the state park and they continue to work hand-in-hand with our Rangers every day.

Stop by the Park Office, located at 9465 General Winder Rd., in Rapidan and grab a map of the Cedar Mountain walking trails to enjoy the nearly 3 miles of trails here. You might just catch a tractor or combine at work too.

Summer is right around the corner and Virginia State Parks offer plenty of ways to enjoy the outdoors for all ages. No m...
05/20/2026

Summer is right around the corner and Virginia State Parks offer plenty of ways to enjoy the outdoors for all ages.

No matter where you are in Virginia, there is a state park within an hour drive of you, making for a quick getaway for you and the family.

Explore endless opportunities for a summer of fun here: https://www.dcr.virginia.gov/state-parks/other/summer-fun

Mark your calendars and celebrate Virginia’s rich stories, traditions, and communities during History & Culture Weekend ...
05/18/2026

Mark your calendars and celebrate Virginia’s rich stories, traditions, and communities during History & Culture Weekend at Virginia State Parks!

Visit your favorite Virginia State Park June 13-14 and enjoy hands‑on experiences and guided programs that bring our past to life.

To explore our History and Culture Weekend events, visit: https://www.dcr.virginia.gov/state-parks/history-culture-day

Still on the fence about volunteering? Join us for the American Battlefield Trust's 30th annual Park Day and experience ...
04/22/2026

Still on the fence about volunteering? Join us for the American Battlefield Trust's 30th annual Park Day and experience volunteering on the Battlefield! All volunteers are welcome. 🌎

🗓️ Saturday, April 25
🕘 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.
📋 Register in advance

Park Day allows the American Battlefield Trust to cast a spotlight on beloved American landscapes nationwide. Projects will keep historic sites and battlefields clean, open and accessible for the enjoyment of all.

Participants should bring bug repellent, water, gloves, sunscreen and closed-toed shoes. 🥾

For more information and how to register, visit https://www.dcr.virginia.gov/state-parks/event?id=2026-04-01-14-05-29-539026-mzq

Keith Price, President of the Cedar Mountain Battlefield Foundation, stands next to Sam Focazio (Culpeper Battlefields S...
04/02/2026

Keith Price, President of the Cedar Mountain Battlefield Foundation, stands next to Sam Focazio (Culpeper Battlefields State Park Volunteer Coordinator) and State Park staff from Richmond.

We are excited to announce that the Cedar Mountain Battlefield Foundation board voted to become an official Friends group to help support the new state park!

As winter fades and spring takes hold, Virginia’s black bears are beginning to emerge from their dens. 🥾 It’s an excitin...
03/31/2026

As winter fades and spring takes hold, Virginia’s black bears are beginning to emerge from their dens. 🥾 It’s an exciting time to explore state parks but also a moment to stay aware and respectful of the wildlife waking up around us.

Check out our latest blog to learn more and for some tips on what you should do if you encounter a bear.

🐻 https://www.dcr.virginia.gov/state-parks/blog/bears-at-virginia-state-parks

🦇 Did you know some bats migrate while others hibernate right here in Virginia? These incredible creatures play a vital ...
03/17/2026

🦇 Did you know some bats migrate while others hibernate right here in Virginia? These incredible creatures play a vital role in our ecosystem, and they need our help to thrive.

Learn how bats survive the winter, why they matter and simple ways you can make a difference in our blog post.

👉 https://www.dcr.virginia.gov/state-parks/blog/virginias-bats-hibernation-migration-and-how-you-can-help-them

📷 Tri colored bat: Rick Reynolds, Wildlife Biologist, Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources

Culpeper Battlefields State Park is growing fast, with new land transfers underway and expanded access to the historic B...
03/02/2026

Culpeper Battlefields State Park is growing fast, with new land transfers underway and expanded access to the historic Brandy Station and Cedar Mountain battlefields. Visitors can now explore miles of interpretive trails, including Fleetwood Hill—one of the most iconic Civil War sites in the nation.

With Park Manager Drew Gruber and our dedicated team (plus longtime volunteers) planning to build programs, improve access, and preparing for even more acreage through 2027, the park is growing into something truly special.

To read more about what's new at Culpeper Battlefields State Park, visit: https://www.dcr.virginia.gov/state-parks/blog/whats-new-at-culpeper-battlefields-state-park

⚠️ Winter safety alert ⚠️ Sub-freezing temperatures will continue through the weekend, and icy conditions remain in some...
01/29/2026

⚠️ Winter safety alert ⚠️

Sub-freezing temperatures will continue through the weekend, and icy conditions remain in some areas of state parks, including trails. Please plan ahead and stay safe:

✔️ Check weather conditions before your visit
✔️ Dress in layers
✔️ Wear high-traction footwear
✔️ Carry emergency supplies

Important: Keep your pets leashed and do NOT attempt to walk on lakes, even if they appear frozen. Changing currents and uneven ice thickness make the surfaces unpredictable and dangerous.

For more information on how to safely hike in the winter, visit: https://www.dcr.virginia.gov/state-parks/blog/winter-hiking-tips

Address

9465 General Winder Road
Rapidan, VA
22733

Opening Hours

Monday 6am - 7pm
Tuesday 6am - 7pm
Wednesday 6am - 7pm
Thursday 6am - 7pm
Friday 6am - 7pm
Saturday 6am - 7pm
Sunday 6am - 7pm

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