The Eastern Front Visitor Center is open daily from 9 AM to 5 PM, except on Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s Day.
There is no entrance fee at Petersburg National Battlefield; it is free to visit year-round.
From Richmond, take I-85 South towards Petersburg, exit onto Squirrel Level Road, and follow Wells Road to Vaughan Road, immersing yourself in historic landscapes and poignant legacy.
Parking available at trailheads, tour stops, and visitor center with ample spaces for cars, smaller RVs, and trailers. No overnight parking. No fees. Motorcycle parking also available.
Accessibility & permits
Emergency
- Cell service availability:Partial
Petersburg National Battlefield, situated near the city of Petersburg, Virginia, is a poignant and historically rich destination that embodies the tumultuous spirit of the American Civil War. This expansive battlefield, spanning over 140,000 acres, includes outlying components in Hopewell, Prince George County, and Dinwiddie County, each offering a unique glimpse into the war’s most prolonged and bloody conflict.
The landscape here is marked by open fields, intricate earthworks, and the remnants of cannons, all silent witnesses to the nine-and-a-half-month siege that resulted in approximately 70,000 casualties. The Eastern Front Visitor Center, located on Virginia Route 36, serves as an ideal starting point for a 33-mile driving tour that weaves through 13 separate sites. One of the most compelling stops is “The Crater,” where Union troops engineered a daring tunnel underneath a Confederate battery, leaving an enduring scar on the ground.
Seasonal changes bring different moods to the battlefield; spring blooms with lush greenery, summer brings warmth and long days to explore, autumn paints the earth with vibrant colors, and winter adds a somber quietude. The park is dotted with monuments and historical markers, each telling a segment of the larger narrative of the Siege of Petersburg.
For those seeking a deeper immersion, the American Battlefield Trust offers insights into the preservation efforts and historical significance of the site. Local outfitters and historical societies often organize guided tours and reenactments, adding a dynamic layer to the visitor experience. Nearby, the city of Petersburg and adjacent towns like Hopewell offer a blend of artisanal shops, historic eateries, and museums that further enrich the journey.
- Area (mi²)
- 9.4
- Annual visitors
- 140 000
- Established year
- 1926
Top 3 Facts about Petersburg National Battlefield
During the siege, the 48th Pennsylvania Infantry excavated a 510-foot tunnel beneath a Confederate fort, packing it with 8,000 pounds of powder, which when ignited, created a massive breach in the Confederate line.
In this historic landscape, White-footed mice scurry through fields once battlegrounds, while Gray foxes and Red-tailed hawks watch from above. Cardinals, terns, and hawks soar overhead, and Osprey dive into the Appomattox and James Rivers. Bald eagles nest in a 65-foot pine, their eaglets taking first flights under vigilant parental guard. Eastern box turtles and Eastern worm snakes inhabit the grounds, alongside Five-lined skinks and Spade-footed toads. With 142 bird species, 26 reptiles, and 22 fish species, this site is a vibrant tapestry of wildlife amidst a rich cultural heritage.
Amidst the Atlantic Coastal Plain, ancient crystalline metasedimentary and metaigneous rocks of Neoproterozoic age form the bedrock, while younger Cretaceous and Quaternary sedimentary strata overlay the landscape. The area features unconsolidated Cenozoic sediments and partially consolidated sands, with the Petersburg Granite, a Pennsylvanian–Permian formation, underlying parts of the terrain. This geological tapestry is set against a backdrop of broad tidal rivers and gentle, rolling hills.
Family programs
- Junior Ranger
- Ranger-led Tours
- Self-guided Tours
- Living History & Cultural Demos
- Workshops & Hands-on Activities
Travel Tips
Plan Ahead
Plan a full day or multiple days to explore the 33-mile route. Start at the Eastern Front Visitor Center for an overview. Anticipate walking on paved and earthwork trails. Rest and hydrate, as options are limited. Visit in spring for the Civil War Siege Anniversary event.
Pack Appropriately
Pack layers for unpredictable weather, bring a map, compass, and GPS, along with sunscreen, bug spray, and a waterproof backpack. Don’t forget a phone charger and extra snacks for a day trip or camping gear for longer stays. Check the season for specific necessities.
Respect Wildlife
Keep a safe distance from wildlife, at least 25 yards, to avoid altering their behavior. Never feed animals and properly dispose of trash to preserve their natural habits. Stay on designated trails to protect the environment and respect the flora and fauna.
Stay Informed
Wear protective clothing, apply bug spray, and avoid high grass. Watch for venomous snakes and slippery paths. Check weather conditions and park rules. For emergencies, call (804) 732-3531.
Seasons
In spring, mild temperatures (60s-70s°F) and blooming landscapes make for ideal outdoor exploration. Join the Fort Stedman Ranger Program in April, and hike or bike through historic trails as the weather warms up, avoiding the summer crowds.
Explore historic trails and outdoor exhibits amid summer’s warm temperatures (80s-90s°F) and occasional thunderstorms. Join daily guided tours from May to August, and don’t miss the 160th anniversary of the Battle of the Crater in July. Immersive history and nature await.
Visit in fall, when temperatures range from 50 to 70°F, and enjoy mild weather. Attend the annual Civil War reenactments in October, immersing yourself in historic landscapes ablaze with autumn colors. A perfect time for serene walks and insightful ranger programs.
Visit from December to February for a serene winter landscape, with temperatures ranging from 30°F to 50°F. Crisp air and fewer crowds make for a contemplative exploration of historic battlefields, though some facilities may be closed. Ideal for those seeking a peaceful, immersive experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
Ready to dive into what Petersburg National Battlefield has to offer? Let’s tackle some of the burning questions you might have as you plan your visit!
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You should stay in Richmond or nearby cities like Hopewell or Petersburg, as the battlefield is approximately 25 miles south of Richmond. This location allows easy access to the various sites and visitor centers along the 33-mile driving tour route.
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Dogs must be on a leash no longer than 6 feet at all times. They are not allowed in public buildings, Poplar Grove National Cemetery, or on earthworks and forts. Owners must collect and remove their dog’s waste.
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Yes, parking is free. There are parking spaces available at the trailheads, tour stops, and visitor centers, including spots for trailers and smaller RVs.
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The Siege of Petersburg began on June 15, 1864, when Ulysses S. Grant’s Union forces launched an assault on Robert E. Lee’s Confederate armies but failed to capture the city after four days of fighting. Grant then initiated a siege, aiming to surround Petersburg and cut off Lee’s supply routes. The siege lasted 292 days, with intense trench warfare, skirmishes, and artillery fire until April 2, 1865, when Union forces launched a decisive assault that led to Lee’s evacuation of Petersburg and eventual surrender at Appomattox Court House on April 9, 1865.