For years, guests visiting Westmoreland State Park would check in during the off season at the small, overcrowded Park Office.

The tiny, bit of corner space was dedicated to camping supplies, gifts and souvenirs. The small building functioned as a visitor center, store and area where the ranger's offices were located. With limited staff and hours, the building often went unmanned on weekends as the rangers made their rounds and tended to campers, visitors and business in the park.

Previous Visitor Center and Park Office

Things have changed a lot since the completion of the new Visitor Center. Visitors are now greeted seven days a week in a large reception area by an informative contact staff. The Visitor Center also houses 24 hour public restrooms and a designated gift shop while staff offices are separated from public view. Having the Visitor Center staffed daily has increased customer satisfaction with the park by answering questions and providing information, taking care of problems and concerns, and providing retail opportunities for the purchase of necessities and souvenirs.

New Visitor Center with view overlooking the Potomac River

Merchandise sales have increased greatly since the opening, so much in fact, that even with the park closed for an extended period of time including Labor Day due to the hurricanes, sales are still ahead of previous years! With each purchase a visitor makes, they are supporting the park system which can use revenues to improve facilities and operations as well as increase the merchandise selection available for customers.

The new facility and location is a win, win for all and will pay huge dividends for years to come. Oh! Did I forget to mention the spectacular view sitting high above the cliffs overlooking the Potomac River and the Maryland shoreline? Stop by and say hello, check out the view for yourself, it's nature at it's best.

View from bluff overlooking the cliffs off the Potomac River

Camping, cabin and Murphy Hall meeting facility is available for rental.  For information on availability of 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. Rates are subject to verification by DCR's state parks reservations staff. First determine the season, which varies by park, then the rate.

CONTACT INFO: Westmoreland State Park, 1650 State Park Road, Montross, Va. 22520-9717; Phone: (804) 493-8821; Email: westmoreland.

LOCATION: Facing the Potomac River, the park is six miles northwest of Montross and just off Route 3. Google map for location and directions click here.

Drive Time: Northern Virginia and Washington D. C., two hours; Richmond, one and a half hours; Tidewater/Norfolk/Virginia Beach, two and a half hours; Roanoke, five and a half hours.