Last updated: August 4, 2026
Place
Caledon State Park (NPS Chesapeake Gateways)
Virginia Department of Conservation & Recreation
Quick Facts
Location:
11617 Caledon Rd., King George, VA 22485
Significance:
Designated a National Natural Landmark, Caledon State Park protects old growth forest and critical bald eagle habitat along the Potomac River within the Chesapeake Bay watershed.
Designation:
National Natural Landmark; Virginia State Park; Chesapeake Gateways Network Site
Amenities
5 listed
Beach/Water Access, Gifts/Souvenirs/Books, Historical/Interpretive Information/Exhibits, Pets Allowed, Picnic Shelter/Pavilion
Located along more than three miles of Potomac River shoreline in King George County, Virginia, Caledon State Park preserves 3,034 acres of forest, marsh, and managed fields within the Chesapeake Bay watershed. The park, managed by the Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation, is a designated National Natural Landmark for its old growth forest and played a vital role in the recovery of the American bald eagle in Virginia. Its protected shoreline once supported the largest summering population of bald eagles on the East Coast, making it a cornerstone of conservation success. Today, that same shoreline is open for visitors to enjoy hiking and fishing, while still carefully safeguarding the rich habitat that supports the park’s diverse flora and fauna. Caledon State Park also connects visitors to the broader stories of the Potomac River landscape, including the Captain John Smith Chesapeake National Historic Trail.
Visitors can discover more than 14 miles of well-marked trails that wind through eastern climax forest, across small creeks, and toward scenic views of the Potomac River. The popular Boyd’s Hole Trail provides access to what was once a thriving riverfront settlement stretching nearly a mile along the Potomac River during its peak in the Civil War era. Visitors today can explore the evocative remains of the historic tobacco warehouse where locally grown tobacco was shipped to markets beyond the Chesapeake. Along the shoreline, visitors will find remnants of former homes and a store site. A visitor center features exhibits on bald eagles and local ecology, along with birding resources that highlight more than 150 documented bird species. Primitive paddle-in and hike-in campsites offer a quiet overnight experience along the river, accessible by non-motorized boat or established trails.
As a Chesapeake Gateways Network Site, Caledon State Park offers visitors the opportunity to immerse themselves in the region’s magnificent old-growth ecosystems and the dynamic landscapes of the Chesapeake. It also plays an important role in wildlife conservation and environmental stewardship, contributing to the watershed’s ecological integrity. For more information or to plan your visit, please refer to the park’s official website.
This location does not accept the America the Beautiful—National Parks and Federal Recreational Lands Pass. Entrance fees and ticket policies are set independently by the managing partner, as detailed on their website.
Visitors can discover more than 14 miles of well-marked trails that wind through eastern climax forest, across small creeks, and toward scenic views of the Potomac River. The popular Boyd’s Hole Trail provides access to what was once a thriving riverfront settlement stretching nearly a mile along the Potomac River during its peak in the Civil War era. Visitors today can explore the evocative remains of the historic tobacco warehouse where locally grown tobacco was shipped to markets beyond the Chesapeake. Along the shoreline, visitors will find remnants of former homes and a store site. A visitor center features exhibits on bald eagles and local ecology, along with birding resources that highlight more than 150 documented bird species. Primitive paddle-in and hike-in campsites offer a quiet overnight experience along the river, accessible by non-motorized boat or established trails.
As a Chesapeake Gateways Network Site, Caledon State Park offers visitors the opportunity to immerse themselves in the region’s magnificent old-growth ecosystems and the dynamic landscapes of the Chesapeake. It also plays an important role in wildlife conservation and environmental stewardship, contributing to the watershed’s ecological integrity. For more information or to plan your visit, please refer to the park’s official website.
This location does not accept the America the Beautiful—National Parks and Federal Recreational Lands Pass. Entrance fees and ticket policies are set independently by the managing partner, as detailed on their website.