George Washington Birthplace National Monument Picnic Pavilion

The Popes Creek Picnic Area Pavilion is located within George Washington Birthplace National Monument. The surrounding picnic grounds were built by the Civilian Conservation Corps in the 1930s. A connecting foot bridge leads to the historic area, farm, colonial garden, visitor center and gift shop, and the Washington family burial ground is located one mile away. The 30-by-42-foot pavilion contains 12 picnic tables and two grills. Restrooms and a water fountain are 80 feet away, and parking is available for 25 vehicles on a first come, first served basis. The use of amplified music and public address systems requires a permit and a portable power source. The pavilion and picnic area sit on a bluff overlooking the mouth of Popes Creek with views of the Potomac River in the distance. A one mile nature trail meanders along the shore of Popes Creek and through wooded areas, and a connecting trail and series of boardwalks takes visitors through Dancing Marsh and into the historic area. The park offers fishing on Popes Creek and on the Potomac River, canoeing and kayaking from the Potomac River beach, hiking, bike riding on park roads, and bird watching. Numerous attractions surround the area, including Westmoreland State Park, Stratford Hall Plantation, Historic Christ Church, historic Fredericksburg, Menokin, the Northern Neck Wine Trail, the Lower Potomac River Water Trail, the Potomac Heritage National Scenic Trail, Rappahannock River Valley National Wildlife Refuge, Belle Isle State Park and the James Monroe Birthplace.