Posted Nov 11, 2014 | Updated Jan 11, 2017

If you have been there you already know the answer to this question: What is so special about Caledon State Park?

It’s one of the most beautiful unspoiled places left on the Potomac River. It's a place to relax, refresh and renew. I always have a very hard time leaving the woods and the quiet solitude.

Caledon State Park is a special place with many unique features

along the Potomac River in Virginia

Egret looking for lunch at Alder Flats

But what is so unique about Caledon State Park?

This time of the year is my very favorite at Caledon State Park, with the leaves starting to fall, the wildlife is much more visible. You just have to make sure your foot fall doesn't crunch too much and scare them away! You may see Tundra Swans, Ruddy Ducks, Wood Ducks, and maybe even White Pelicans on their way back home to Florida. 

White Pelicans

 If don't know what makes Caledon State Park special, well let’s just make a list:

• Eagles, lots of eagles!
• Over 2,500 acres of unspoiled scenery including old growth forests
• 16 miles of trails including bike trails to the river
• 15 acres of shoreline
• 122 bird species
• 21 species of mammals
• 30 species of reptiles and amphibians
• 500  plant species
• Creative, engaging and fascinating programs and special events, I am wild about the kayaking programs!
• The brand new, I am so excited about it, paddle in campsite!
•  Visitor Center and very nice gift shop
• Picnic shelter and picnic areas
• Fun playground situated in the woods
• Great staff - what only two full time staff?  How do they do it all? Oh yes, dedicated volunteers including the very supportive Friends of Caledon.
• Amazing trees some as old as 200 years, I just love to hug those trees!
• The history and the story of Caledon
• Registered as a Natural National Landmark, no surprise there!

Pickerel Frog

What you need to know to plan your trip:

• The parking fee is $3 on weekdays $4 on weekends for up to 8 passengers, event parking fees vary (PDF)
• You will need to make reservations for all programs and some events
• Normal Park Operation Hours are 8:00 a.m. until sunset
• Trails vary in difficulty but park maps and kiosks are available on site
• Picnic shelters are by reservation only but there are picnic areas available, no alcohol please
• The Visitor Center and Gift Shop have limited hours this time of year so please check with the park office.
• There is a bathroom and drink machine located off the Visitor Center that is open during park operation hours.

Sunset on the Potomac River

Lastly, something else that makes our park of the month so special:

Caledon State Park is the perfect day trip from just about anywhere from Coastal, Central and Northern Virginia, Washington D.C.and parts of Maryland. The park is located on Route 218 in King George County not far from the Dalhgren Military Base. Click here for a Google map.

For more information on programs and events, please call the park office (540) 663-3861.

YEAH SHE'S ALL THAT!

Editor's Note: This blog originally ran as a park of the month part II for Caledon State Park posted on Nov 11, 2014 | Updated on Jan 11, 2017