There are a number of Virginia State Parks clustered relatively close to each other, often within just an hour's drive. It’s worth doing some research if you plan to visit a park to see what else is in the area. We’ve discovered that even when these parks are close together, they can be vastly different from one another and offer unique amenities.

Beautiful woods surround an easy dirt trail for the perfect hike 

July 24 Caledon State Park

Only a short 30 minute drive from Westmoreland State Park is Caledon State Park, a National Natural Landmark and the summer home for what is dubbed “one of the largest concentrations of bald eagles on the east coast.” 

Caledon State Park offers a number of hiking trails, including some throughout designated Natural Area’s allowing you to catch a glimpse at the undisturbed wetland nature from the trails.

Many of the trails dead end at overlooks of the Potomac River.

We decided to put in a solid hike and took the Boyd’s Hole Trail (1.93 mi) from the Visitor Center to Triangle Field and the Caledon Marsh (0.86) to Cliff Overlook Trail (0.15 mi), which took us down through the Caledon Marsh Natural Area and gave us a picturesque view of the Potomac.

Along with this view, we easily spotted an adult bald eagle and two juveniles also enjoying the river. 

The trail down was easy and gradual along a wide gravel road, so it’s a good option for bike riders or baby strollers.

An unexpected boardwalk over a marsh in the woods

On our way back we segmented off the Caledon Marsh Trail and hopped on portions of the Benchmark Trail (1.05 mi), Laurel Glen Trail (0.74 mi), Poplar Grove Trail (0.9 mi), and Smoot Trail (0.42 mi) which took us right back to the Visitor Center. These trails gave us that “in the woods” feel that we crave, with windy dirt paths past fallen trees, woodland streams, and a number of boardwalks and bridges you’re sure to enjoy!

Check out the Cliffs Overlook for the perfect spot to catch a glimpse of eagles

Start your adventure here: The Visitor Center 

If you would like to go on your own adventure to Caledon State Park and would like more information about this park, click here.

Guest Bloggers Peter Radlowski and Sarah Sumoski plan to tackle all 36 37 Virginia State Parks in 2016 and they invite you to come along on the adventure with them.