Caledonia State Park is a 1,125-acre (455 ha) Pennsylvania state park in Greene Township, Franklin County and Franklin Township, Adams County in southern Pennsylvania.. We stopped at the Visitor Center to pick up a map and was the lady working there provided an overview of the history of Caledon House. Wander Through Old-Growth Forest And Waterfront Trails At Virginia’s Caledon State Park One of the very best things about living in Virginia is the abundance of state parks. Caledon State Park Overnighter Saturday, March 7th – Sunday, March 8th at Caledon State Park. There were a large number of well marked hiking trails and we hiked four. I wouldn’t take a small umbrella stroller, but the regular full size stroller with bigger wheels did great. Veteran shark tooth hunters know the deal. there are several trails that aren't that difficult and the park is dog friendly. This is the version of our website addressed to speakers of English in the United States. A Virginia treasure. Woods, water, old growth trees, bald eagles and a new trail system! From Fredericksburg, take 218 East for 23 miles. The trail is actually a gravel road through the woods. It’s about nourishment and learning. This year they are smaller and perfect for your favorite water bottle - why not add to your resolutions by committing to refrain from single use plastics like bottled water. The teeth wash in with the wave, then go back out again with the wave so you’ve got to be quick when spotting the tooth and grabbing it before the wave takes it back out. Originally a plantation dating back to the 1600s, the land was donated to the state in 1974. Visitors who make plans to go on a hike on January 1st, will be a part of the America’s State Parks First Day Hikes. Campground Map. You can also enjoy a hike to the Potomac river and take a swim. Caledon State Park is a 2,579-acre (1,044 ha) state park located in King George, Virginia. Caledon Natural Area was donated by Ann Smoot and turned into a natural area because of the population of eagles along the Potomac River. 206 for six miles, then turn left onto Rt. 218 and go about one mile; Caledon is on the right. 27 Reviews #866 of 2,832 things to do in Virginia. There were benches, resting spots and pinning areas thoughtfully placed throughout the trails. Caledon State Park has 10 hiking trails and four multi-use trails open to the public. It’s about more than standing on the mountain top. When you get to the river, go to the left to see this location. The property was initially owned by the Alexander brothers, founders of the city of Alexandria, and was established in 1659 as Caledon Plantation. There are no cabins or drive-in campsites full of trailers and RVs. https://www.mapquest.com/us/virginia/caledon-state-park-2801377 This time we also went by Caledon and I was so impressed! There's also some playgrounds and such. 3 east 18 miles to a left onto Rt. © 2020 Outdoor Project. They're pretty isolated. In 2012, the natural area became Caledon State Park, allowing more possibilities for recreation. A picnic shelter close to the main parking area equipped with a charcoal grill and restrooms is available for rent by contacting the park office. Learn more about how to apply the principles of Leave No Trace on your next outdoor adventure. Caledon State Park is a 2,579-acre (10.44 km2) state park located in King George, Virginia. It... Saturday, October 14, 2017; 11:00 AM 2:00 PM 11:00 14:00; Caledon State Park 11617 Caledon Road King George, VA, 22485 United States; Google Calendar ICS; Join us on our next field trip to Caledon State Park! read more, If you are looking for a park that offers beauty, and solitude, Caledon State Park is for you. more. I would love to come back and hike them all! If you are looking for a park that offers beauty, and solitude, Caledon State Park is for you. Hike Caledon State Park - Jones Pond loop. The kids did fine with the hike. Caledon offers a number of amenities, however, to my mind, their hiking trails are the best feature. We went with 4 kids, age 2 to 9. The visitor center has many exhibits about the history of the plantation and the surrounding lands on which the park was established. About a hour to get to the beach. She is very knowledgeable and is quite willing to share her knowledge with all. Hike one of its trail and maybe you'll spot one! We opted for the loop trails in the woods. We saw bald eagles, herons, egrets, turtles, and lots of deer. NIKON D7100 lens length = 18 lens = 18 lens type = aperature = 6.3 ISO = 100 shuter = 1/400 The towering trees and paintbrush stroke leaves of Caledon State Park will have you seeing green. Hiking - Caledon State Park. Hobby: Hiking! Kept the children’s interest for about 5 mins. COVID-19 & the VBWT: Be Safe While Outdoors DWR encourages you to be safe while outdoors. Top Selling Tours & Activities in and around Virginia. You can get more information from their website. Four multi-purpose trails offer the opportunity to bike through the picturesque marshlands and scenic wooded areas that characterize the park. The gravel trail is wide and commonly used by trail runners. A brochure on the hiking trails is available at the park office. If you are looking for a park that offers beauty, and solitude, Caledon State Park is for you. It’s about protecting what sustains us. They have a number of different trails ranging from an easy one mile trail to at least 5 miles (looping several together). Start off 2021 with a hike at your favorite Oklahoma State Park! I recently had the privilege of being a guest recently on Virginia's Outdoor Adventures Podcast. It’s an area just in the woods, at the first parking lot. The trails were clearly marked and well maintained. Boyds Hole Trail is the most popular and leads hikers down to the shoreline of the Potomac River. This review is the subjective opinion of a TripAdvisor member and not of TripAdvisor LLC. And totally shaded by the trees.The main house has a few pieces of furniture and a room set up resembling the original farm house interior. Beginners are welcome. The 15.7-mile DRHT that can also be added to the park, would provide even more recreational opportunities. Fishing is allowed on the shores of the Potomac but prohibited in all other bodies of water in the park. Ownership passed, in 1974, to the Commonwealth of Virginia. Everything is made out of tree branches, tree stumps, etc... just as much and maybe even more fun than a traditional playground. Holes are too small. Lots of areas that we did not investigate: other river front sites, marshes, approx 10 different hiking trails.$4 parking fee, with a self pay station on your way in. Outdoor Project may earn commission on products purchased through our links, which supports the work we do for our readers. Bald eagle research is still ongoing at Caledon State Park, and the eagles remain a major attraction for visitors and researchers alike. Caledon State Park is located in King George County of Virginia state. Caledon State Park. Please respect the outdoors by practicing Leave No Trace. I’m sure there’s bigger to be found. The land that is now Caledonia State Park was once owned by Thaddeus Stevens, who is known as the father of the public school system in Pennsylvania. Monte Bello Open Space Preserve, California. Caledon is on the left. Or you may take Rt. Caledon and the surrounding areas are the summer home for one of the largest concentrations of … Camping and campgrounds in Caledon State Park, Virginia. It does not offer numerous venues for entertainment or activity, but the walking trails are beautifully maintained, well-marked and meander through an old growth forest that feels Hiking at Caledonia State Park 10 miles of trails The trails pass through forests and historic areas. Guests must access the sites by kayak, canoe or other non-motorized boat or by hiking or biking on established park trails three miles from the visitor center. Turns out that one of the **trails leading to the beach very stroller friendly**Important because the hike is over 4 miles round trip. The other rooms are dedicated to wild life education. Visitors will receive a First Day Hike sticker. Museum and visitor center is the place to start to learn about this... First Day Hike Caledon State Park, 11617 Caledon Rd., ... 4:30 p.m. Join us for your first hike of 2021! The area served to protect both old-growth forest and its resident bald eagles. The signs referred to the strong current off of the beach. The gravel trail is wide and commonly used by trail runners. Acquiring the Lake Caledon property with its 47-acre lake, would enable Caledon State Park to have room for cabins, camping, fishing docks, canoe and kayaking launch areas, additional hiking, bicycle and equestrian trails, an open-air music venue, and a conference center. State Parks. Hikers on the Rookery Trail may catch a glimpse of an eagle’s nest depending on the time of year. A bench every mile or so along the way if you need a spot to sit. I have never seen so many old growth trees in one area here in the east. 11617 Caledon Rd., VA 22485. Before heading out, first check with individual sites on the Virginia Bird & Wildlife Trail to find out whether they are still open to the public. They have children’s programs but we did not participate. Total elevation gain of about 1200 feet .... 400 feet in 0.5 miles. A valid Virginia fishing license is required. The 3.5 mile Boyd's Hole Trail leading to the Potomac River is the most popular of the trails. A National Natural Landmark known for its old growth forest and summer home to many American bald eagles, Caledon attracts bird watchers of all ages. Flickr photos, groups, and tags related to the "caledoniastatepark" Flickr tag. Exhibits on the eagles can also be found in the visitor center, and park rangers offer several birding programs, including eagle tours and owl prowls. Lace up those well-worn boots and trek one of ten designated trails designated for hiker's feet only. The park has posted no swimming signs/warnings. An entire list of park programs and events can be found at the Virginia State Parks. Hiking at Caledon State Park. No plastic swing sets, no metal bars. On the street of Caledon Rd and street number is 11617. The Interactive GIS Map uses Geographic Information Systems to create a map that does not need to be downloaded and features driving directions, searchable park amenities, and customizable maps.. Sign up to receive our weekly newsletter packed with the best adventure guides, travel ideas, news, and articles. A designated National Natural Landmark for its eastern hardwood forest, Caledon Natural Area provides visitors the unique opportunity of viewing bald eagles in their natural habitat. Save. Caledonia State Park - Quarry Gap Circuit. Mostly flat, but a couple of long inclines at the beginning. Despite the many access points to the Potomac River, swimming is prohibited due to swift currents and unforeseen dangers. They were so beautiful and impressive! Such a serene, beautiful place. $5 entrance fee per vehicle This year, opossum presents will be hidden all along the trails in Caledon State Park to promote social distancing. I have always visited Westmoreland State Park when I wanted to go to a local park or bring visitors. Five hiking trails in the natural area are open year-round and take park visitors through environmentally sensitive marshlands and picturesque wooded areas of the park. Mostly known for day hikes, Caledon State Park began renting 6 primitive campsites near the Potomac River back in 2014. This is a good park for day hikes. Explore This Trail. Description: Approximately 7.1 mile, moderate, circuit hike using park trails and the AT to form a "figure 8". Nice shoreline (100 yards appr) Sandy beach. The park offers approximately 12 miles of hiking trails, 7 of which are open year round. We believe good things come from people spending time outside. All rights reserved. Other trails allow hikers to explore the old-growth forests, wetlands, and Potomac River overlooks around the park. If you are a resident of another country or region, please select the appropriate version of Tripadvisor for your country or region in the drop-down menu. Trails, including Boyd's Hole Trail, which leads to the Potomac River, are open year-round. Their Boyd's Hole trail, about three miles, open only October to March, sometimes offers glimpses of eagles. Bring cash for parking, sunscreen, bug spray, comfortable walking shoes, water, sandwiches/snacks. Still, this remains a place of peaceful pleasures. Possibly close to 5 miles. Review tags are currently only available for English language reviews. read more. We promise not to annoy you, but if you wish, you may unsubscribe at any time. My husband and I spent our 36th wedding anniversary hiking the trails at Caledon State Park. A sand sifter would work well. Camping in the park is limited to a few primitive paddle-in or hike-in campsites. From Virginia State Parks: A National Natural Landmark known for its old growth forest and summer home to many American bald eagles, Caledon … Not a sifter screen from your kitchen. We visited this state park on what turned out to be the hottest day of the year (July 19, 2020). Reserve a campsite online or learn more about lodging and activities at Caledon State Park. The Boyds Hole Trail and Flats trail go through the wildlife management area and critical shoreline area and are closed during the summer months to allow the young bald eagles to learn to hunt without disturbance. From the rugged mountains of western Virginia to the coastal shoreline of the Eastern Shore, so much of Virginia’s natural beauty is preserved for all to enjoy. This is a great state park with quite a few trails through the woods. Be mindful of all signage and postings of restricted areas. Google Custom Directions. The fields around the furnace were used as field hospitals during the battle of Gettysburg. To get to this location, take the Boyd's Hole trail to the Caledon Marsh trail. He built the iron furnace in 1837 and the Confederate Cavalry destroyed it in early July 1863. 2013-04-16, Caledon State Park hike along the Potomac River. Day job/profession: Sales associate/hiking guide with River Rock Outfitter. We will be camping overnight at Caledon State Park’s primitive hike-in campground on the Potomac. 2020 Terrain360 LLC | About & Contact | Blog. The only negative was that there was quite a bit of trash on the beach. Boyds Hole Trail is the most popular and leads hikers down to the shoreline of the Potomac River. Information regarding closures is typically posted on a site's own website. Caledon State Park; Important Notices. January 1 is a free park access day so no parking or admission fees! We'll be hiking 3.5 miles of fire roads from the Visitor Center to the campsites near the river. Nearly all of our parks have water bottle fillers now. Open today: 8:00 AM - 10:00 PM. Porta Potty when you’re close to the beach, picnic table and trash receptacles at the beach. Take lunch in cool and refreshing Dark Hollow surrounded by Rhododendron Thickets, Hemlock trees and massive rock formations. Refreshing to dip your feet in, but I’d take the park’s advice and beware.After returning from the hike, the kids played on the playground. If you haven't been backpacking before this is a great first trip to test your skills! It’s about building relationships with the outdoors and each other. A child’s sifter toy works much better(bigger holes)The kids weren’t too interested in searching for shark’s teeth(a little too difficult for kids under 7/8)but they enjoyed running around the beach. To communicate or ask something with the place, the Phone number is (540) 663-3861. Ask W6441VNlindas about Caledon State Park, Hike with a stroller, Enjoy a ‘natural’ playground, Search for shark’s teeth on the beach, Ask Lvn4vacation about Caledon State Park, Ask MC_3Traveller about Caledon State Park, Ask Arubagirl2002 about Caledon State Park, Hotels near (DCA) Ronald Reagan National Airport, SeaQuest Lynchburg-Single Day Passport Ticket. Have updates, photos, alerts, or just want to leave a comment? Caledonia State Park Campground Map (PDF) Interactive GIS Map. Today the park is known for its recreational activities and the Totem Pole Playhouse, a summer stock theatre. They went through beautiful forests and glades, across marshes and along the cliffs of the river. Weren’t sure if we could ‘hike’ with a stroller for the 2 year old. We found about 10 smaller shark’s teeth but only looked for about a half an hour. *While we did not look for Bald Eagles, Caledon is a great place for Eagle watchers and bird watchers alike. Caledon has six paddle-in and hike-in primitive campsites available for rent year-round. The first 500 people to find a opossum present, take a picture with it and show it to the visitor center ranger will receive a special giveaway from Caledon. Caledon State Park encompasses an old growth forest where many bald eagles can be observed in the summer. Trails are now open year round, and six primitive campsites – accessible only by a hike or paddle – lie near riverside wetlands. From Fredericksburg, take Route 218 east. Hikers on the Rookery Trail may catch a glimpse of an eagle’s nest depending on the time of year. The Best Winter Adventures in North America. We wanted to look for shark’s teeth and headed out to Caledon for a half day adventure. It’s about a 3 mile hike from the parking lot (on some really lovely trails), and while the campground has tent pads and a portojohn, there is no electricity or potable water. A Virginia treasure. Caledon is located in King George County between Fairview Beach and Owens, 23 miles east of Fredericksburg on Route 218. United States ; Virginia (VA) Virginia - Things to Do ; Caledon State Park; Search. Several areas of the park are closed off to the public during certain times of the year to help protect the eagles. Caledon State Park has 10 hiking trails and four multi-use trails open to the public. Toured the entire place in 10 mins. Caledon State Park was established in 2012. The park is named for the Caledonia Furnace, an iron furnace that was owned by Thaddeus Stevens beginning in 1837. Location, take the Boyd 's Hole trail, which supports the work we for., opossum presents will be camping overnight at Caledon State Park is known for its recreational activities and the.! Park was established which supports the work we do for our readers day hike Caledon State.... Known for its recreational activities and the at to form a `` 8! 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