George Washington Birthplace National Monument Picnic Pavilion
George Washington Birthplace National Monument
The Popes Creek Picnic Area Pavilion is located within George Washington Birthplace National Monument. The surrounding picnic grounds were built by the Civilian Conservation Corps in the 1930's. A connecting foot bridge leads to the historic area, farm, colonial garden, visitor center and gift shop. The Washington family burial ground is located one mile away.
The 30' by 42' picnic pavilion contains 12 picnic tables and two grills. Restrooms and a water fountain are 80' away. (The use of amplified music and public address systems requires a permit and a portable power source.) Parking is available for 25 vehicles on a first come first served basis.
Need to Know
- George Washington Birthplace is open year round except for Thanksgiving, Christmas Day, and New Year's Day.
Picnic area is open 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, Admission is free.
- Alcohol is prohibited.
Free standing shade structures are permitted in the picnic area, provided that they are no larger than 10'x10'. Stakes or pegs used as anchors must be less than 9" in length and 1" in diameter.
Hammocks and bounce houses are prohibited.
Balloons, glitter, and confetti are prohibited as they can harm the wildlife.
The visitor center is open Wednesday-Sunday, check there for ranger led tours of the historic area as times may vary.
- Don't Move Firewood: Help protect our forests! Prevent the spread of tree-killing pests by obtaining firewood at or near your destination and burning it on-site. Moving firewood is illegal in some states. Visit dontmovefirewood.org to learn more.
Valid VA State, or Potomac River fishing license is required to fish in the park. Fishing is permitted in designated areas.
Pets must be on a leash.
Natural Features
The pavilion and picnic area sit on a bluff overlooking the mouth of Pope's Creek with views of the Potomac River in the distance. A one mile nature trail meanders along the shore of Popes Creek and through wooded areas. A connecting trail and series of boardwalks takes visitors through Dancing Marsh and into the historic area.
Nearby Attractions
Numerous attractions surround the area, including: Westmoreland State Park, Stratford Hall Plantation (Birthplace of Robert E. Lee), Historic Christ Church, Historic Fredericksburg, Menokin (Home of Francis Lightfoot Lee), Northern Neck Wine Trail, The Lower Potomac River Water Trail, The Potomac Heritage National Scenic Trail, Rappahannock River Valley National Wildlife Refuge, Belle Isle State Park and James Monroe Birthplace.
Recreation
George Washington Birthplace offers a variety of recreational activities including fishing on Popes Creek and on the Potomac River, canoeing and kayaking from the Potomac River beach, hiking, bike riding on park roads, and bird watching.
Contact Information
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1732 Popes Creek Road Colonial Beach VA 22443
Phone Number
For campground inquiries, please call: 804-224-1732 X 240
Rental Options
Learn more about gear rental options for your trip
Driving Directions
From Fredericksburg/I-95: Exit I-95 at Exit 130 A and continue onto Route 3 East. Follow Route 3 East for 38 miles. Look for Route 204, which is on the left. After turning down Route 204, entrance to park is approximately 2 miles.
From Route 301: Follow Route 3 East approximately 12 miles. Take the left at Route 204. After turning down Route 204, entrance to park is approximately 2 miles.
From Route 360: Follow George Washington Birthplace signs out of Warsaw, VA. Take Route 3 West approximately 22 miles. Take the right at Route 204. After turning down Route 204, entrance to the park is approximately 2 miles.
For GPS Devices use the following address: 1732 Popes Creek Road, Colonial Beach, VA 22443
