What's new at Culpeper Battlefield State Park

Officially opened in October 2024, Culpeper Battlefields State Park will eventually span more than 2,200 acres of preserved battlefield land, offering an unparalleled opportunity to explore the sites of four pivotal Civil War battles: Brandy Station, Cedar Mountain, Kelly’s Ford and Rappahannock Station. At this time, only a couple of land acquisitions have been completed, so DCR owns only two properties—Brandy Station and Cedar Mountain. There will continue to be a series of land transfers occurring between June 2024 and December 2027, thanks to the dedicated efforts of the American Battlefield Trust, the Brandy Station Foundation, the Cedar Mountain Battlefield Foundation and the Commonwealth of Virginia. Together, these partners have ensured that future generations can experience and learn from the landscapes that shaped our nation’s history.

Visitors can now walk the same fields where soldiers once stood and enjoy the natural beauty of Culpeper County—all while honoring the legacy of those who fought here.

While the park is still under development, it is key to check out the park’s webpage before you visit.

Brandy Station and Cedar Mountain

The first land transfer for Virginia’s 43rd state park took place in 2024 at Brandy Station, featuring the iconic Fleetwood Hill and its interpretive loop. Combined with Cedar Mountain parcels, the park now spans 439 acres.

After nearly four decades of dedicated preservation, Culpeper Battlefields State Park is officially a reality. The 2022 state budget paved the way for the donation of more than 2,000 acres of historic battlefield land to Virginia, including the storied Fleetwood Hill. To support this effort, the General Assembly allocated $5.5 million to help private partners, such as the Trust, continue their work. Land transfers will occur in phases through 2027, guided by a joint stewardship plan as the park develops its staff and infrastructure.

Although most of the new park’s acreage is located at the Brandy Station and Cedar Mountain battlefields, future transfers may include portions of Kelly’s Ford and Rappahannock Station. In addition to providing opportunities for historical interpretation, these areas would enhance recreational access to the Rappahannock River. Once these properties are fully under state management, Virginia will launch its comprehensive master planning process to shape the park’s future. This process will explore potential amenities, interpretive programs and visitor services designed to connect guests with both the region’s rich heritage and its natural beauty.

Trails

A first-time visitor should begin exploring the park at Cedar Mountain Battlefield and at the park office, located at 9465 General Winder Rd., Rapidan, Va. 22733. The trails and signs are well-maintained, and the volunteer staff is usually available on weekends to answer questions. When the park office is staffed, there are limited bathroom facilities available.

There are 176 acres for visitors to explore at Cedar Mountain battlefield, and this specific site currently offers two interpretive trails. The main interpretive trail is an easy 1.25 miles long and offers 10 interpretive stops. An additional interpretive trail adds another mile and enables guests to explore more remote parts of the battlefield, including a witness tree and a monument dedicated by the 3rd Wisconsin Regiment.

This portion of the park is also dog-friendly, so you can bring your furry friend along for a nice walk. Remember that your pet must be on a leash no longer than 6 feet and must be under your supervision for the duration of your visit.

There are three trails at Brandy Station that allow you to explore the battlefield, and each path offers a scenic hike, along with interpretive signs that help you better understand the landscape and how it was used in the past. Please note that the only DCR-owned trail is Fleetwood Hill, and the other two are owned and operated by the American Battlefield Trust.

Buford’s Knoll Trail takes you on a 2.52-mile journey across rolling terrain where history was made. This seven-stop trail enables you to follow in the footsteps of the opening moments of the Battle of Brandy Station, along the infamous stone wall, and past the historic Wilshire house. Along the way, the interpretive signs help bring these events to life.

Along the way, interpretive wayside exhibits bring the events of 1863 to life, offering vivid insights into the clash of cavalry forces. Plan for about 2 hours to fully experience the trail and its stories.

The St. James Church trail is an easy, mown path about one mile long. Four interpretive signs enable you to envision the gallant charge of two Union cavalry regiments, the history of St. James Church, and the hardships of the 1863-1864 winter camps. This short hike is rich in history and atmosphere, perfect for those seeking a glimpse into the lives of Civil War soldiers. Allow 90 minutes to walk and reflect.

Fleetwood Hill is one of the most iconic Civil War sites in the nation and was the epicenter of the Battle of Brandy Station. The easy .26-mile trail features ten interpretive signs and a viewfinder offering a powerful look at the swirling cavalry charges that thundered across the heights here. Set aside 30 minutes for this short but compelling hike.

Did you know that the Battle of Brandy Station, which took place on June 9, 1863, was the largest cavalry battle ever fought on the North American continent and was the beginning of the famous Gettysburg campaign?  Be sure to read the interpretive signs or talk to a ranger on your next park visit.

A virtual tour is available of Brandy Station allowing you to navigate between scenes and click on the tour points for more information about the battlefield.

Park Staff

The first person hired at the park was the park manager, and, lucky for us, that role is filled by Drew Gruber. DCR is proud to have Gruber as the first park manager, especially since he brings extensive knowledge from his 10 years as the previous director of Civil War Trails, which offers over 1,500 sites across six states, including several Virginia State Parks. Gruber holds an M.A. in urban and regional planning from Virginia Commonwealth University, a B.A. in historic preservation from Mary Washington College, and is recognized by the Citizens Planning Education Association of Virginia. He most recently completed his certification as a travel marketing professional from the Southeast Tourism Society.

“I am most excited to join the Culpeper community and to be able to work with and learn from the park’s Friends group,” said Gruber. “Where else can you stand in the footsteps of soldiers, follow cavalry charges on horseback or paddle the battle? This park already offers a unique set of experiences for visitors of all ages and interests, and I am excited to share these gifts with our guests.”

Gruber has been working hard to build up his team as the park expands.

Ranger Marti Kluxen, the office manager, brings extensive knowledge and experience to the park. She was formerly at Westmorland State Park, one of the oldest in the state park system and is excited to bring her many years of administrative expertise to the “design table” as the team works together to build this new park.

Ranger Jacob Crowson is in charge of Park maintenance and holds a B.A. in Environmental Studies from Christopher Newport University. Crowson was formerly at Chippokes State Park and brings a passion for natural resources.

Ranger Sam Focazio is the park’s newest employee and holds a B.A. in Historic Preservation from the University of Mary Washington in Fredericksburg. She brings a robust customer service experience from helping open The Bear and The Blade in downtown Culpeper alongside her father. Her combined expertise and passion for heritage make her a valuable advocate for preserving and sharing the stories that shape our local communities.

In the weeks to come, the Park expects to hire and onboard a law enforcement officer and will begin posting the part-time maintenance positions. Additionally, they look forward to welcoming new volunteers, as they are the heart of the visitor experience and continue to help create memorable visits for every guest.

Volunteering at Virginia State Parks

Volunteers are essential to all Virginia State Parks, but especially to Culpeper Battlefields State Park, which was previously entirely run by volunteers before DCR took over property ownership.

“In addition to their impressive conservation and interpretive efforts, the community that worked tirelessly to establish this park remains deeply engaged in its success,” said Gruber. “Introducing a Volunteer Coordinator role at our park not only honors their dedication but also ensures they continue to be the heart and soul of the Park.”

As the park develops and the volunteer team expands, staff are learning more about the land’s long and rich history, even well beyond the Civil War era.

“We have been so lucky to have so many passionate people sharing their research and resources such as historic letters, maps, photographs, and newspaper articles,” explained Gruber. “We are not only collecting all of this as we develop a park archive, but welcome volunteers to the park to help us envision new ideas for programs, camping, trails, how to introduce native flora and fauna, and so much more.”

Plan your next visit

As more employees are being hired, the park is steadily growing, and amenities are being planned as new properties are being acquired.

Here are some tips for visiting:

• Stay on marked trails.
• Watch for ticks and wildlife.
• Keep your pet on a leash no longer than 6 feet at all times.
• No restrooms or drinking water on-site at any of the battlefield locations, so plan ahead and come prepared.
• Wayside exhibits provide orientation and interpretation along each trail.
• Be mindful that the park office may not be fully staffed, but please knock on the door and if a staff member or volunteer is available then they will answer.
• Metal detecting is strictly prohibited. 

Culpeper Battlefields State Park is still under development, and land acquisitions are planned to take place between 2024 and 2027.

Visit the park’s website for more information before your next park visit.