Department of Conservation and Recreation
Conserve. Protect. Enjoy.
Department of Conservation and Recreation
Culpeper Battlefields State Park continues to grow as more tracts of land have been transferred to the park this year. The American Battlefield Trust has transferred two significant tracts of land totaling 131.29 acres at Cedar Mountain Battlefield to the Commonwealth of Virginia for inclusion in Culpeper Battlefields State Park.
The park was designated as the system’s 43rd state park in 2024 and has grown to encompass 560 acres. Since opening, the park has hired more staff, created a park office with a gift shop and holds seasonal programs that are fun and educational.
Please note that these properties are still undeveloped and not yet open to the public.
The first tract, nearly 45 acres south of James Madison Highway, was acquired in July 2022 with support from Trust members, the American Battlefield Protection Program, and the Virginia Land Conservation Foundation. This land which is along the still unpaved historic turnpike was the site of the initial Union infantry, artillery, and cavalry positions as the battle began The Trust identified the property as a top preservation priority, especially because it faced threats from solar and residential development.
The second tract, acquired in August 2020 and totaling 86.5 acres across U.S. Route 15, was also funded with support from members, ABPP, and VLCF. This property was crossed by Union Gen. George H. Gordon’s brigade during both its advance and retreat and was the site of encounters with Confederate troops, including those involved in Samuel Crawford’s attack. It also saw Union soldiers captured during the retreat. Preservation of this tract helps connect the story between Union positions east of the wheat field and the final Confederate positions, and was made urgent by nearby residential construction and potential solar development.
Together, the properties received more than $1.34 million in federal and state grant funding. Their transfer advances the Trust’s ongoing commitment to establishing a major battlefield destination in Culpeper through strong public and private collaboration. The Battle of Cedar Mountain, fought on August 9, 1862, saw early Union success but ultimately ended in a Confederate victory after A.P. Hill’s counterattack. This shifted the focus of the Virginia campaign from the Peninsula to Northern Virginia, giving General Lee a strategic advantage.
“Once the final land transfers have occurred, we will begin the master planning process,” said Drew Gruber, Park Manager. “This community-driven process will help us chart out park access, amenities, and more.”
For more information about Culpeper Battlefields State Park, visit the park’s website.
Categories
Recreation Planning | State Parks
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state parks
