Virginia / Westmoreland County / George Washington Birthplace National Monument

George Washington Birthplace National Monument Picnic Pavilion

Open — Open daily 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM except Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year's Day. Picnic pavilion available first-come, first-served with no advance reservations.

About

The Popes Creek Picnic Area Pavilion is located within George Washington Birthplace National Monument on a bluff overlooking the mouth of Popes Creek with views of the Potomac River. The picnic grounds were constructed by the Civilian Conservation Corps in the 1930s and remain a scenic gathering spot for visitors exploring the birthplace of America's first president. A connecting footbridge from the picnic area leads visitors to the historic memorial area, working colonial farm, period garden, visitor center, and gift shop. The Washington family burial ground is located one mile from the pavilion. The site offers a one mile nature trail meandering along the shore of Popes Creek through wooded areas, plus connecting trails and boardwalks through Dancing Marsh into the historic area. Recreational opportunities include fishing on Popes Creek and the Potomac River, canoeing and kayaking from the Potomac River beach, hiking, bike riding on park roads, and bird watching. The monument encompasses 551 acres where seven generations of the Washington family lived.

Directions

From Fredericksburg/I-95: Exit 130A onto Route 3 East for 38 miles, turn left on Route 204, entrance is 2 miles ahead. From Route 301: Follow Route 3 East 12 miles, turn left on Route 204. From Route 360: Follow signs from Warsaw, VA, take Route 3 West 22 miles, turn right on Route 204. GPS address: 1732 Popes Creek Road, Colonial Beach, VA 22443.

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