A hidden gem in the Northern Neck, Caledon State Park provides a retreat into nature and history for all who enter its gates. If, for some reason, you are looking for justification to visit, look no further.

Check out these five amazing reasons to explore Caledon State Park.

1. | The Majestic Bald Eagles

A Bald Eagle being released at Caledon State Park

Any description of Caledon State Park would be remiss without including our national bird. Our beautiful park is home to a great many year-round Bald Eagles. This part of Virginia has one of the highest concentrations of nesting pairs in the Chesapeake Bay region and the East Coast. Sightings aren't guaranteed, but the best way to catch a glimpse of these birds of prey is to hike down to the river in the morning. Use binoculars or a zoom lens to survey the tree line along the beach and the sky above the river.

The best trails for this are Boyd's Hole Trail and the Jones Pond Loop. If you are looking to catch a glimpse of an eagle's nest, the Rookery Spur is the trail for you. December is a great time to view Bald Eagles pairing up, and summer is the best time to see the juveniles playing and trying out their wings for the first time as they learn to hunt and fish. Also, check our program schedule to come on an Eagle Tour so you can have a little help looking for these birds and learn some more about their history and biology.

2. | The Primitive Campground

Caledon State Park's campground site #6

A three-mile hike to Jones Pond brings you to a nearly hidden campground, giving you the opportunity to truly get away from it all. Right on the Captain John Smith Chesapeake National Historic Trail, Caledon State Park's campground is bike-in, hike-in, or paddle-in. Witness the sunsets on the Potomac River, the flight of Bald Eagles, and countless other breathtaking moments. More about camping here or by calling 800-933-7275.

3. | The Old Growth Forest

The Grandfather Tree

Caledon State Park is designated a National Natural Landmark because of its Old Growth Forest. Stepping foot into the Potomac Heritage Trail puts you inside the old-growth tulip poplar-oak forest. On this trail, you will be surrounded by trees ranging in age up to about 260 years old. I cannot walk through that forest without feeling like I am walking through history. As I estimate the age of trees, I can't help but think about what was going on in the area when each of the trees first took root and all that they have seen since. Some even saw the birth of our nation.

And speaking of stepping back in time...

4. | Its History

1818 Wedding Reenactment at Caledon State Park

Places that have been inhabited for over 350 years are bound to have some stories to tell. Starting as a colonial plantation in 1659, the Alexander family farmed the land from what is now King George County to Northern Virginia. When the area they were farming in Northern Virginia was in need of a new town, it was built on their land and even named after them. After that, the Alexanders spent much of their time in Alexandria and had their properties at Caledon managed by others. Beyond that time, Caledon witnessed Revolutionary, Civil War and steamboat history. For a taste of that history, another recent blog post may be of interest to you: A Spy Camp Named Eagles Nest.

For more, you can stop by and explore our Visitor Center and find programs that shed more light on our history.

5. | Interpretive Programming

A Trick Your Stick and Hike Program

Caledon State Park has a huge focus on interpretation, which means more fun things for you and your friends and family to do when you visit. Park Interpreters specialize not in interpreting another language but in interpreting the resources of the park, whether it be natural, historical or cultural. There is something going on every weekend at Caledon State Park that you can join in on. From classic programs like Eagle Tours and Owl Prowls to fun activities like Sunset Kayak Trips and Caledon Campfires to more unique events like Trash to Art and the RAC Star Party, there are a variety of programs on history and nature in the park. To see what is going on in the park during your visit, check out our events database.

Not only do we offer these public programs, but we also offer opportunities for school field trips and have a significant number of homeschoolers who come out for programming during the week each month. Call the park for more information on these opportunities: 540-663-3861.

Bonus | An Amazing Staff

Fantastic Caledon State Park staff

I may be a bit biased, but I think Caledon State Park has a great group of people. Whether you run into one of us cutting grass, speak to someone on the phone, or go on a program with us, you'd be hard-pressed to catch us on a bad day. If you see one of us in khaki and green while you're here, stop and say hi or ask a question. We're always happy to help.

We're here to make your experience in the park better, and we look forward to having you visit us soon.