Complete Guide to National Park Sites in Virginia: All 22 Sites Worth Visiting

I have lived in Virginia for a while and while I may be biased, I think it has it all, from Civil War battlefields to amazing mountain views. As a local who has explored all across the state, I can tell you that you will not be bored checking out the National Park Sites in Virginia. From the surrender site that ended the Civil War to the performing arts venue that hosts world-class musicians, these National Park Sites in Virginia offer something for everyone.

We’ll go over all twenty-two official National Park Service sites to provide you some inspiration and a little extra information to consider for your travels. Whether you’re a dedicated National Park passport stamp collector or planning your first family adventure, we will help you explore the National Park Sites in Virginia to find something special.

Appalachian National Scenic Trail

The AT is legendary among hikers, and Virginia has more miles of this iconic trail than any other state – 550 miles of it! From Front Royal to Damascus, the trail winds through some of the most beautiful wilderness in the East. I’ve hiked sections throughout Virginia, and each stretch offers something unique.

Green and white Sign for the Appalachian trail on Fontana Dam — Appalachian Trail sign on the Fontana Dam

Address: Multiple access points throughout Virginia
Google Maps: Appalachian Trail Virginia
Trail Access: Multiple access points throughout Virginia
Entrance Fee: Free
Activities: Hiking, backpacking, wildlife viewing, photography
Highlights: Shenandoah National Park section, McAfee Knob, Dragon’s Tooth, Mount Rogers
National Park Passport Stamp: Available at Harper’s Ferry ATC headquarters and various visitor centers along the trail

The Virginia section includes some of the most famous and photographed spots on the entire trail. The trail through Shenandoah National Park is absolutely spectacular, especially during fall foliage season.

Official Site: Appalachian Trail Conservancy

Appomattox Court House National Historic Park

This is where it all ended, folks! The reconstructed courthouse village and the space around the site is impressive. I have visited the location several times, an it has kept the charm and simplicity of a small Virginia town, which gives you a keen view into what it witnessed on the April day in 1865.

Address: 111 National Park Dr, Appomattox, VA 24522
Google Maps: Appomattox Court House National Historic Park
Visitor Center: Appomattox Court House National Historic Park Visitor Center
Entrance Fee: Free
Activities: Self-guided walking tours, ranger programs, living history demonstrations
Highlights: Reconstructed courthouse village, McLean House (surrender site), Confederate cemetery
National Park Passport Stamp: Available at the book store during operating hours.

Tavern and bookstore with long green lawn and walkway

The ranger programs are fantastic – they really help you understand what it must have been like for both Grant and Lee during those final days. Don’t miss the McLean House where the actual surrender took place. If you’re interested in more Civil War battlefield experiences, check out our detailed Antietam driving tour for similar historical insights.

Official Site: National Park Service – Appomattox

Arlington House, The Robert E. Lee Memorial

If you are on a trip heading to Washington DC, a visit to Arlington National Cemetery is a must, and while you are there you have to visit the Arlington house. Perched high above Arlington National Cemetery, this mansion tells the tale of the Lee family and the transformation of their estate into our nation’s most famous cemetery.

Eternal Flame at Arlington National Cemetary — Eternal flame with Arlington House in the Background

Address: Arlington, VA 22211
Google Maps: Arlington House, The Robert E. Lee Memorial
Visitor Center: Arlington House
Entrance Fee: Free, but there may be a charge to park
Activities: Self-guided house tours, grounds exploration, cemetery visits
Highlights: Restored mansion, incredible views of Washington DC, connection to Arlington National Cemetery
National Park Passport Stamp: Available at the house and bookstore

The restored the house shows both the grandeur of the Lee family’s life and the reality of the enslaved people who lived and worked there. The view from the front of the house is absolutely stunning – you can see all the way to the Lincoln Memorial.

Official Site: National Park Service – Arlington House

Assateague Island National Seashore

Assateague is more than just a beach. It is home to Wild horses that are roaming free, pristine coastal wilderness, some of the best bird watching and yes beaches. The park spans across both Maryland and Virginia.

Beach view with a yellow flag on a flag pole under a cloudy sky — Beach view of Assateague Island Beach

Address: 8231 Beach Rd, Chincoteague, VA 23336
Google Maps: Assateague Island National Seashore
Visitor Center: Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge Visitor Center
Entrance Fee: $25 per vehicle (valid for 7 days)
Activities: Beach activities, wildlife viewing, hiking, fishing, camping
Highlights: Wild horses, pristine beaches, lighthouse, incredible sunrises
National Park Passport Stamp: Available at the visitor center

The Tom’s Cove visitor center area is perfect for families with its calmer waters.

Official Site: National Park Service – Assateague Island

Blue Ridge Parkway

I challenge you to find a more scenic drive, especially during the fall! The Virginia section of the Blue Ridge Parkway offers 217 miles of breathtaking mountain views, waterfalls, and hiking opportunities.

Address: Blue Ridge Parkway, Virginia (Multiple access points)
Google Maps: Blue Ridge Parkway Virginia
Visitor Centers: Multiple visitor centers along the route
Entrance Fee: Free
Activities: Scenic driving, hiking, camping, photography
Highlights: Skyline Drive connection, Mabry Mill, numerous overlooks and waterfalls
National Park Passport Stamp: Available at multiple visitor centers along the route

The fall foliage is absolutely spectacular, but every season has its own beauty. Spring brings wildflowers, summer offers lush green canopies, and winter provides crystal-clear mountain views.

Official Site: National Park Service – Blue Ridge Parkway

Booker T. Washington National Monument

This is where Booker T. Washington, one of America’s most influential educators and civil rights leaders, was born into slavery and spent his early childhood. We were staying at the Smith Mountain Lake state park and had to make time for a visit. The reconstructed plantation and walking trails really help you understand his incredible journey from these humble beginnings to becoming a renowned educator and advisor to presidents.

Address: 12130 Booker T Washington Hwy, Hardy, VA 24101
Visitor Center: Booker T. Washington National Monument Visitor Center
Entrance Fee: Free
Activities: Self-guided walking tours, cabin visits, hiking trails
Highlights: Reconstructed slave quarters, plantation walking trail, visitor center exhibits
National Park Passport Stamp: Available at the visitor center

The 1.5-mile Plantation Trail is worth your time. It takes you through the reconstructed farm where Washington lived and worked as a child. The contrast between his humble beginnings and his later achievements is truly inspiring.

Check out Guide to Booker T Washington National Monument

Cedar Creek and Belle Grove National Historical Park

This place tells an incredible story of the Civil War’s final major battle in the Shenandoah Valley. The Battle of Cedar Creek in October 1864 was where Union General Philip Sheridan turned a Confederate surprise attack into a decisive victory. The preserved battlefield and historic Belle Grove Plantation create a fascinating glimpse into both military and civilian life during the war.

Address: 7712 Main St, Middletown, VA 22645
Visitor Center: Cedar Creek and Belle Grove National Historical Park Visitor Center
Entrance Fee: Free
Activities: Self-guided battlefield tours, plantation tours, hiking trails, living history programs
Highlights: Historic Belle Grove Plantation, battlefield walking trails, Heater House visitor center
National Park Passport Stamp: Available at the visitor center

Official Site: National Park Service – Cedar Creek and Belle Grove

Colonial National Historic Park

This is actually three amazing sites in one! Colonial National Historic Park is home to the historic triangle, and includes Historic Jamestowne, Yorktown Battlefield, and the scenic Colonial Parkway that connects them. If you include a visit to Colonial Williamsburg, you can easily spend a weekend in the area – there’s so much to see and do!

National Park Passport Stamps: Available at both Historic Jamestowne and Yorktown visitor centers

Historic Jamestowne

Address: 1368 Colonial Pkwy, Jamestown, VA 23081
Google Maps: Historic Jamestowne
Entrance Fee: $15 per person (valid for 7 days)
Highlights: Original Fort, archaeological Muesum, walking trails, driving tour

The first permanent English Settlement in America was here. The ongoing archaeological work is fascinating – they’re still uncovering new discoveries about life in the early 1600s.

Yorktown Battlefield

Address: 1000 Colonial Pkwy, Yorktown, VA 23690
Google Maps: Yorktown Battlefield
Entrance Fee: $15 per person (valid for 7 days)
Highlights: Battlefield tour road, surrender field, reconstructed earthworks

The driving tour is fantastic – you can really visualize how Washington and his French allies trapped Cornwallis here, effectively ending the Revolutionary War.

Colonial Parkway

Address: Colonial Parkway, Virginia (23-mile scenic drive)
Google Maps: Colonial Parkway
Entrance Fee: Free
Highlights: Beautiful tree-lined drive, York River views, perfect for cycling

Official Site: National Park Service – Colonial

Cumberland Gap National Historic Park

This place is absolutely stunning! The gap through the mountains that Daniel Boone and thousands of pioneers used to reach Kentucky is still as impressive today as it was 250 years ago. The views from the overlooks are breathtaking, making this one of the most scenic National Park Sites in Virginia.

Address: 91 Bartlett Park Rd, Middlesboro, KY 40965
Visitor Center: Cumberland Gap National Historic Park Visitor Center
Entrance Fee: Free
Activities: Hiking, cave tours, scenic drives, historical programs
Highlights: Tri-State Peak, Gap Cave tours, Daniel Boone’s trail, Pinnacle Peak
National Park Passport Stamp: Available at the visitor center

The hike to the Tri-State Peak is one of my favorites – you can literally stand in Virginia, Kentucky, and Tennessee all at once! The Gap Cave tours are also incredible if you’re not claustrophobic.

Check out Guide to Cumberland Gap National Historical Park

Fort Monroe National Monument

This massive stone fortress has an incredible history spanning over 400 years! From its role in the Civil War to its significance in African American history, Fort Monroe tells so many important stories. Plus, it’s free to visit!

Address: 20 Bernard Rd, Fort Monroe, VA 23651
Visitor Center: Casemate Museum
Entrance Fee: Free
Activities: Self-guided tours, museum visits, walking trails, beach access
Highlights: Historic casemates, Casemate Museum, beautiful Hampton Roads views
National Park Passport Stamp: Available at the Visitor Center

The casemates where Jefferson Davis was is interesting, but did you also know Edgar Allen Poe served at Fort Monroe as well? The fort also played a crucial role as a refuge for escaped enslaved people during the Civil War, which is an amazing story of freedom and courage.

Check out our Visit to Fort Monroe

Fredericksburg & Spotsylvania National Military Park

This park preserves four major Civil War battlefields, and boy, do they pack a punch! The sheer scale of the battles fought here is almost overwhelming. I always recommend starting with the Fredericksburg Battlefield Visitor Center to get oriented.

Sunken Road foot path Fredericksburg National Battlefield Visitor Center — Sunken road trail at Fredericksburg Battlefield

Address: 1013 Lafayette Blvd, Fredericksburg, VA 22401
Google Maps: Fredericksburg & Spotsylvania National Military Park
Visitor Centers: Multiple visitor centers across the four battlefields
Entrance Fee: Free
Activities: Self-guided driving tours, hiking trails, ranger programs
Highlights: Sunken Road, Bloody Angle, Chancellorsville battlefield
National Park Passport Stamp: Available at multiple visitor centers

The Sunken Road at Fredericksburg is particularly moving – you can still see the stone wall where Confederate troops made their stand. The Bloody Angle at Spotsylvania is another must-see, though it’s emotionally challenging.

Guide to Fredericksburg National Military Park

Official Site: National Park Service – Fredericksburg & Spotsylvania

George Washington Memorial Parkway

This 25-mile route along the Potomac River connects many important sites while offering beautiful views of the river and Washington, D.C.

Address: George Washington Memorial Parkway, Virginia/D.C. (Multiple access points)
Visitor Centers: Multiple sites along the parkway
Entrance Fee: Free
Activities: Scenic driving, hiking, historic site visits
Highlights: Great Falls Park, Theodore Roosevelt Island, multiple overlooks
National Park Passport Stamp: Available at various sites along the parkway

Great Falls big blue sky and rock — View of Great Falls

Great Falls Park is absolutely spectacular – the power of the Potomac River rushing over the rocks is something you have to see to believe. Theodore Roosevelt Island is also a peaceful escape right in the middle of the D.C. area.

Official Site: National Park Service – George Washington Memorial Parkway

George Washington Birthplace National Monument

Standing where our first president was born is pretty incredible! The colonial plantation has been beautifully reconstructed, and the ranger programs really bring Washington’s early life to story.

Address: 1732 Popes Creek Rd, Colonial Beach, VA 22443
Visitor Center: George Washington Birthplace National Monument Visitor Center
Entrance Fee: Free
Activities: Self-guided walking tours, living history programs, nature trails
Highlights: Memorial House, colonial farm, family burial ground
National Park Passport Stamp: Available at the visitor center

The Memorial House isn’t the original (that burned down in 1779), but it’s built on the original foundation and gives you a great sense of what life was like for the Washington family. The farm animals and colonial demonstrations are great for kids!

Official Site: National Park Service – George Washington Birthplace

Harpers Ferry National Historical Park

This place is absolutely fascinating! Where the Shenandoah and Potomac Rivers meet, John Brown made his famous raid, and the driving tour of the Civil War battle is also very interesting. While the historic town and visitor center are located in West Virginia, Harpers Ferry National Historical Park actually spans three states – West Virginia, Virginia, and Maryland.

Panoramic view of the Potomac River flowing between forested hills under an overcast sky, with railroad bridge remnants visible on the left and the dramatic river gap extending into the distance. — Potomac and Shenandoah rivers created this natural gap through the mountains, making Harpers Ferry a transportation corridor that shaped American history

Address: 171 Shoreline Dr, Harpers Ferry, WV 25425
Visitor Center: Harpers Ferry National Historical Park Visitor Center
Entrance Fee: $15 per person (valid for 3 days)
Activities: Historic town walking tours, museum visits, hiking trails
Highlights: John Brown’s Fort, Historic Lower Town, Maryland Heights trail
National Park Passport Stamp: Available at the visitor center and Lower town Bookstore

The view from Maryland Heights is absolutely worth the hike – you can see why this location was so strategically important. The historic Lower Town is perfectly preserved and feels like you’re walking through the 1800s.

Official Site: National Park Service – Harpers Ferry

Maggie L Walker National Historic Site

This small Richmond site tells the powerful story of Maggie L. Walker, the first African American woman to charter a bank in the United States. Her restored home is absolutely beautiful and tells an inspiring story.

Maggie L. Walker NHP outside view of house with awning — Maggie L. Walker NHP

Address: 600 N 2nd St, Richmond, VA 23219
Google Maps: Maggie L Walker National Historic Site
Visitor Center: Maggie L Walker National Historic Site Visitor Center
Entrance Fee: Free
Activities: Guided house tours, educational programs
Highlights: Restored Walker family home, exhibits on African American banking history
National Park Passport Stamp: Available at the visitor center

The house tours are incredibly well done – you really get a sense of how this remarkable woman lived and worked. The story of her founding the St. Luke Penny Savings Bank is truly inspiring, especially when you understand the challenges she faced as an African American woman in the early 1900s.

Guide to Maggie Walker National Historic Site

Manassas National Battlefield

This is where the Civil War really began in earnest! Both First and Second Manassas were fought here, and the battlefield is beautifully preserved. The visitor center does an excellent job explaining these complex battles that set the tone for the entire war.

View of the back of a Civil war Cannon pointing forward across a field — Cannon on Manassas Battlefield

Address: 6511 Sudley Rd, Manassas, VA 20109
Visitor Center: Manassas National Battlefield Park Visitor Center
Entrance Fee: Free
Activities: Self-guided driving tours, walking trails, ranger programs
Highlights: Henry Hill, Stone Bridge, Unfinished Railroad
National Park Passport Stamp: Available at the visitor center

The Stone Bridge is iconic – this is where much of the First Battle of Manassas took place. The walking trails around Henry Hill are perfect for getting a feel for the battlefield terrain. For detailed insights into visiting this historic battlefield, check out our comprehensive Manassas National Battlefield guide.

Guide to Manassas National Battlefield

Petersburg National Battlefield

The siege of Petersburg was the beginning of the end for the Confederacy, and this battlefield tells that story incredibly well. The preserved earthworks and trenches really help you understand the brutal reality of siege warfare.

Address: 1539 Hickory Hill Rd, Petersburg, VA 23803
Google Maps: Petersburg National Battlefield
Visitor Center: Petersburg National Battlefield Visitor Center
Entrance Fee: Free
Activities: Self-guided driving tours, walking trails, living history programs
Highlights: The Crater, Confederate earthworks, siege tour roads
National Park Passport Stamp: Available at the visitor center

The site of the Crater is absolutely fascinating and sobering – where Union forces exploded a mine under Confederate lines. The walking trail around the crater really helps you understand what happened here.

Short Visit to Petersburg National Battlefield Park

Potomac Heritage National Scenic Trail

This trail network follows the historic routes of George Washington and connects some of the most important sites in American history along the Potomac River.

Address: Potomac Heritage Trail, Virginia/D.C./Maryland (Multiple access points)
Trail Access: Multiple access points from Washington D.C. to the Allegheny Highlands
Entrance Fee: Free
Activities: Hiking, biking, canoeing, kayaking, historic site visits
Highlights: Mount Vernon Trail, C&O Canal Towpath, Great Falls, numerous historic connections
National Park Passport Stamp: Available at various visitor centers along the trail system

The trail system is actually made up of several different trail segments, but they all tell the story of the Potomac River valley’s role in American history. The Mount Vernon Trail is perfect for families – it’s paved and connects multiple historic sites including George Washington’s estate.

Official Site: National Park Service – Potomac Heritage Trail

Prince William Forest Park

This is Virginia’s largest protected natural area. Over 15,000 acres of pristine forest with hiking trails, camping, and some of the best nature programs. It’s one of the most family-friendly National Park Sites in Virginia.

Address: 18100 Park Headquarters Rd, Triangle, VA 22172
Visitor Center: Prince William Forest Park Visitor Center
Entrance Fee: $10 per vehicle (valid for 7 days)
Activities: Hiking, camping, biking, nature programs, fishing
Highlights: Quantico Creek, numerous hiking trails, cabin camps
National Park Passport Stamp: Available at the visitor center

The hiking trails are fantastic – everything from easy nature walks to challenging backcountry trails. Yet another site that was made possible by the Civilian Conservation Corps in the 1930s.

Official Site: National Park Service – Prince William Forest

Richmond National Battlefield

This park preserves multiple Civil War sites around Richmond, including the famous Tredegar Iron Works. The story of the Confederate capital and the battles fought to defend it is absolutely compelling.

Address: 480 Tredegar St, Richmond, VA 23219
Visitor Center: American Civil War Museum at Tredegar Iron Works
Entrance Fee: Free (museum admission separate)
Activities: Self-guided driving tours, walking trails, museum visits
Highlights: Tredegar Iron Works, multiple battlefield sites, Cold Harbor
National Park Passport Stamp: Available at the visitor center

The Tredegar Iron Works is fascinating – this is where much of the Confederate Army’s weapons were manufactured. Cold Harbor is a separate site with its own visitor center and tells of one of the bloodiest battles of the war.

Official Site: National Park Service – Richmond

Shenandoah National Park

This is a special place. Skyline Drive, incredible hiking trails, waterfalls, and some of the best views on the East Coast. I’ve been here numerous times and still discover something new every visit.

Address: 3655 US-211, Luray, VA 22835 (Main Visitor Center)
Visitor Centers: Multiple visitor centers along Skyline Drive
Entrance Fee: $30 per vehicle (valid for 7 days)
Activities: Scenic driving, hiking, camping, wildlife viewing, waterfall hikes
Highlights: Skyline Drive, Dark Hollow Falls, Old Rag Mountain, numerous overlooks
National Park Passport Stamp: Available at multiple visitor centers

The fall foliage is legendary, but honestly, every season is beautiful here. Dark Hollow Falls is perfect for families as well as camping at loft mountain.

Explore Shenandoah National Park: 2 Day Hiking Itinerary

Wolf Trap National Park for Performing Arts

This is America’s only national park dedicated to the performing arts! The outdoor amphitheater hosts world-class musicians and performers, and the park also offers hiking trails and educational programs.

Address: 1551 Trap Rd, Vienna, VA 22182
Visitor Center: Wolf Trap National Park for the Performing Arts Visitor Center
Entrance Fee: Free to park grounds (concert tickets separate)
Activities: Concerts, performances, hiking trails, educational programs
Highlights: Filene Center performances, The Barns intimate concerts, nature trails
National Park Passport Stamp: Available at Ticket gate

The outdoor setting is absolutely magical. Even if you’re not attending a performance, the park’s nature trails are beautiful and often overlooked by visitors.

Official Site: National Park Service – Wolf Trap

Virginia State Park Passport Program

Don’t forget about Virginia’s incredible state park system! While you’re collecting National Park stamps, consider starting the Virginia State Park passport program too. Virginia has over 40 state parks, each offering unique experiences and their own special stamps.

five colorful pins for Virgina State Park Trail Quest Passport Program

The Virginia State Parks Trail Quest program is particularly fun – you can earn pins while exploring the state’s natural areas. It’s a great way to discover some amazing parks that often get overshadowed by the National Park sites.

Planning Your National Park Sites in Virginia Adventure

Best Time to Visit: Spring (April-May) and fall (September-October) offer the best weather and fewer crowds. Fall foliage in Shenandoah is legendary but expect heavy crowds.

Getting Around: Many National Park Sites in Virginia are within driving distance of each other, especially in northern Virginia. Plan to spend 2-3 days in the Richmond area, 2-3 days in northern Virginia, and at least 2 days in Shenandoah. For additional Virginia travel planning resources, check out Virginia Tourism.

Where to Stay: Each region has excellent lodging options. Shenandoah offers camping and cabins within the park, while the Richmond and D.C. areas have numerous hotels and B&Bs. Check Recreation.gov for campsite reservations at National Parks.

Family-Friendly Tips: Most National Park Sites in Virginia offer junior ranger programs and family-friendly trails. Prince William Forest Park and Shenandoah are particularly great for kids.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many National Park Service sites are in Virginia?

There are 22 official National Park Sites in Virginia, including 2 National Scenic Trails, plus portions of 4 additional National Historic Trails.

Which Virginia National Park sites require entrance fees?

Several of the most popular National Park Sites in Virginia require entrance fees: Shenandoah National Park, Colonial National Historic Park sites, Harpers Ferry, and Assateague Island require entrance fees.

Can I use my America the Beautiful Annual Pass at Virginia National Parks?

Yes! The America the Beautiful Annual Pass is accepted at all fee-required National Park Sites in Virginia and will save you money if you’re visiting multiple parks. At $80 for the year, it pays for itself after just 3-4 park visits.

Where can I get National Park Passport stamps in Virginia?

Every one of the National Park Sites in Virginia has stamps available at their visitor centers during operating hours. Some sites have multiple stamp locations. For more information about the passport program, visit the official National Park Service passport page.

What’s the best order to visit Virginia National Parks?

I recommend grouping the National Park Sites in Virginia by region: Northern Virginia (Arlington House, George Washington Memorial Parkway, Harpers Ferry, Manassas), Richmond Area (Maggie L Walker, Richmond National Battlefield, Petersburg), and Shenandoah Valley (Shenandoah National Park, Booker T. Washington National Monument).

Are pets allowed at Virginia National Parks?

Pet policies vary by site among the National Park Sites in Virginia. Most allow leashed pets on trails and in campgrounds, but not in visitor centers or historic buildings. Check each site’s specific pet policy before visiting.

How long should I plan for each site?

Quick visits (1-2 hours) work for smaller sites like Maggie L Walker. Full-day or even an entire weekend visits are best for Shenandoah, Colonial National Historic Park, and the larger battlefield sites.

Can I camp at Virginia National Parks?

Several of the National Park Sites in Virginia offer camping opportunities. Shenandoah National Park and Prince William Forest Park offer camping. Some sites like Colonial National Historic Park have nearby camping options.

The 22 National Park Sites in Virginia offer an incredible journey through American history and natural beauty. From the birthplace of our first president to the site where the Civil War ended, every visit to the National Park Sites in Virginia teaches you something new about our nation’s story. Get out there and start exploring – your National Park passport is waiting to be filled with these amazing stamps from National Park Sites in Virginia!