GENERAL INFO: On April 6, 1865, the Black Thursday of the Confederacy, General Robert E. Lee's Army of Northern Virginia lost 7,700 men, including eight generals, in the Battle of Sailor's Creek. This defeat was key to Lee's decision to surrender at Appomattox Court House 72 hours later, thus ending the war in Virginia. Click here to download a brochure that details the battle (PDF).
The Overton-Hillsman House, used as a field hospital during the battle, is open to visitors June through August and by request at other times. Contact nearby Twin Lakes State Park, phone (434) 392-3435, email twinlakes@dcr.virginia.gov, to arrange a special tour. Period costumed interpreters commemorate the event and conduct other living history events throughout the year.
Motorists will enjoy Lee's Retreat Driving Tour, which follows the route of his army from Petersburg to Appomattox Court House. While on the trail, drivers can set the radio to AM 1610 for battle details and descriptions. Learn more about this offering by visiting the Virginia's Civil War Trails website or calling toll-free 1-888-CIVIL-WAR. Trail travel packages are available as well; call 1-800-769-5912 for details.
Sailor's Creek Battlefield State Park is a great place to stop for lunch as it lies approximately midway between Petersburg and Appomattox Court House. Charcoal grills and picnic tables are available at the Overton-Hillsman House and the nearby Confederate overlook. No water is available. There is a restroom for use during daylight hours.
LOCATION: From U.S. 460, take Route 617 to Sailor’s Creek Battlefield State Park. From U.S. 360, take State Route 307 (connecting highway between U.S. 360 and U.S. 460) to Route 617 North.
Drive Time : Northern Virginia, three to three and a half hours; Richmond, one to one and a half hours; Tidewater/Norfolk/Virginia Beach, two and a half to three hours; Roanoke, two hours
Click here for a Google map.
OVERNIGHT FACILITIES: No overnight facilities, however group camping by special permit can be arranged for a small fee by calling Twin Lakes State Park at (434) 392-3435 in advance. For information on availability of other parks' overnight accommodations, particular park amenities or to make a reservation, you can reserve online or call 1-800-933-PARK. Click here for park fees.
PARKS CALENDAR OF EVENTS: Click here to view park events, festivals, workshops and interpretive programs.
VISITOR CENTER, GIFT SHOP: None.
Contact Twin Lakes State Park for detailed schedule [phone (434) 392-3435; email twinlakes@dcr.virginia.gov].
Click here to view park events, festivals, workshops and interpretive programs.
ENVIRONMENTAL EDUCATION CENTER: None.
NEARBY ATTRACTIONS: Sandy River Reservoir, Briery Creek Wildlife Management Area, Prince Edward/Gallion State Forest, Lee’s Retreat Driving Tour, Robert R. Moton School Museum, Longwood College Visual Arts Center, Moorefield Mine, Old Town Farmville, Twin Lakes State Park, Petersburg National Battlefield, Appomattox Manor - City Point National Historic Site, Blandford Church, U. S. Army Quartermaster Museum, Appomattox Court House National Park, Pamplin Historical Park and National Museum of the Civil War Soldier, Museum and Whitehouse of the Confederacy, Magnolia Grange Plantation, Crewe Historic Railroad Park.
PICNIC SHELTERS: Picnic tables, grills available; no picnic shelters.
HISTORY: See General Information
