The Visitor Center is open from 9 am to 4:30 pm, Wednesdays through Sundays, from May 1 through October 31, 2024.
There is no entrance fee to visit Cedar Creek and Belle Grove National Historical Park; it is free year-round.
From Winchester, take I-81 South to Exit 302, then follow US-11 to Middletown, where history unfolds amidst rolling hills and Civil War landscapes.
Parking is available at the NPS Visitor Center and partner facilities like Belle Grove Plantation. No specific RV size limits are mentioned, but parking is generally available for cars, RVs, and motorcycles. Overnight parking is not permitted, and there are no parking fees.
Accessibility & permits
Emergency
- Cell service availability:Partial
Cedar Creek and Belle Grove National Historical Park, sprawling across 3,712 acres in the heart of Virginia’s Shenandoah Valley, is a tapestry of historical significance and natural beauty. Here, the rolling hills and fertile soils, shaped by ancient geologic forces, stand as a testament to the region’s rich heritage. The park is home to the poignant Cedar Creek Battlefield, where the Civil War’s pivotal Battle of Cedar Creek took place, and the elegant Belle Grove Plantation, a Federal-style manor house built in 1797.
As you wander through the woodland trails, you follow the lines of trenches built by the US 19th Corps, a haunting reminder of the past. The Belle Grove Manor House, with its sweeping views of the valley, offers tours that delve into the lives of its former occupants and the broader history of the Shenandoah Valley.
Seasonal changes paint the landscape in vivid colors – spring brings blooming wildflowers, summer warms the historic fields, autumn sets the mountains ablaze with color, and winter cloaks the valley in a serene silence. Ranger-led tours and interpretive exhibits at the Cedar Creek Battlefield Visitor Center in Middletown provide a deeper understanding of the site’s historical and cultural significance.
For those seeking to immerse themselves further, driving tours of the battlefield are accessible via public roads, and local outfitters offer guided hikes through trails like those following the trenches of the 19th Corps. The nearby town of Middletown, with its rustic charm and local artisans, is a must-visit for any traveler. As the sun sets over the Allegheny, Blue Ridge, and Massanutten Mountains, Cedar Creek and Belle Grove National Historical Park stands as a living, breathing narrative of America’s past, inviting travelers to experience its unique and enduring character.
- Area (mi²)
- 5.8
- Established year
- 2002
Top 3 Facts about Cedar Creek and Belle Grove National Historical Park
The valley’s fertile soil is based on vast limestone beds laid down by an ancient ocean, creating a geologically rich landscape with limestone beds that contribute to the fertile soil, supporting the historical wheat-growing region in the 1800s.
In this verdant landscape, deciduous, evergreen, and mixed forests cover nearly 40% of the terrain, providing habitat for white-tailed deer and protecting water quality in the Shenandoah River. Native grasses and wildflowers, planted in restored meadows, attract grassland birds and pollinators like butterflies and bees. The skies are home to Canada geese, wild turkeys, and red-shouldered hawks, while the waters support a variety of ray-finned fishes. This tapestry of ecosystems is a haven for both wildlife and those seeking an immersive natural experience.
In the heart of the Shenandoah Valley, limestone quarries yield durable rock that has shaped the landscape, while the serene waters of Cedar Creek flow through a valley once systematically burned but now teeming with life. The surrounding mountains, part of the larger Appalachian range, rise gently, their peaks often shrouded in a soft mist. Here, travelers can follow the old Indian trail, now US 11, and witness the geological forces that formed this picturesque valley.
Family programs
- Junior Ranger
- Ranger-led Tours
- Self-guided Tours
Travel Tips
Plan Ahead
Plan a half-day visit, ideal during fall for the reenactment of the Battle of Cedar Creek. Start at the visitor center, then follow the self-guided driving tour. Wear comfortable shoes for walking on mostly open fields and occasional trails. Pack a meal, as on-site options are limited.[‘chartInstance
Pack Appropriately
Pack layers for changing weather, sturdy footwear, and a waterproof bag. Bring a map, sunscreen, and a first aid kit. For camping, include a tent, sleeping bag, and bear-resistant containers. Check the season for additional gear like warm hats or insect repellent.
Respect Wildlife
Maintain a safe distance from wildlife, at least 25 yards, to avoid stressing animals. Never feed them, and dispose of trash properly to preserve natural habitats. Stay on designated trails and respect the environment as you would your own backyard.
Stay Informed
Stay on designated trails, avoid ledges and swift water. Check weather and fire alerts. For emergencies, call 911 or park rangers.
Seasons
In spring, mild temperatures (60s-70s°F) and blooming wildflowers make for ideal hiking on the Morning Attack Trails. Visit in April for the Ranger Talk series, or await the fall for the Battle of Cedar Creek Commemoration Weekend. Spring’s gentle weather is perfect for outdoor exploration.
Visit in summer for warm temperatures (80s-90s°F) and humidity. Experience the Hite Family Reunion in July, with living history and outdoor activities. Be prepared for potential storms and heat.
Experience the vibrant autumn hues in October, with mild temperatures (50s-70s°F) and crisp weather. Witness the Battle of Cedar Creek Commemoration Weekend, featuring living history presentations, blacksmithing, and Civil War reenactments, making this a must-visit season.
Visit from December to February for a serene winter landscape, with temperatures often in the 30s and 40s. While the plantation house is closed, the tranquil fields and monuments offer a peaceful, less crowded experience. Ideal for those seeking a quiet, historical immersion.
Frequently Asked Questions
Ready to dive into what Cedar Creek and Belle Grove National Historical Park has to offer? Let’s tackle some of the burning questions you might have as you plan your visit!
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The closest city to the park is Middletown, Virginia. The park is located in Frederick, Shenandoah, and Warren counties in Northern Virginia. It is easily accessible just off Interstate 81 on U.S. Highway 11.
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The Morning Attack Trails are a good option for kids, as they are mostly easy with only one moderate slope on the 8th Vermont Monument Trail. The trails are 1.5 miles long and follow stops marked with a free trail guide available at the trail entrances or the Visitor Center. Pets must be kept on a six-foot leash.
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The maximum leash length permitted is six feet. Pets must be kept on a leash of this length and under physical control at all times.
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Parking is free at the park, including accessible parking at the Visitor Center and all parking lots. There are no fees for parking, regardless of the type of vehicle, such as cars, camper vans, or trailers.
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On October 19, 1864, the Battle of Cedar Creek, also known as the Battle of Belle Grove, took place in the Shenandoah Valley of Northern Virginia. Led by Major General Philip Sheridan, the Union army initially fell back under a surprise Confederate attack by Lieutenant General Jubal Early but rallied in the late afternoon to drive the Confederates away. This decisive Union victory helped secure control of the Shenandoah Valley and boosted morale among Northern voters, contributing to Abraham Lincoln’s reelection and the eventual end of the Civil War.