Amazing experience. 5/5 Stars. $10 parking. I had a great time at Leesylvania State Park. They have paved roads in plenty of parking spaces. I experienced some of the most majestic birds. I seen my first great blue heron. Osprey and Turkey Vultures are also here and can be seen throughout the park. The trails were well-maintained and easy to navigate, offering beautiful views of the Potomac River. The fishing pier was a peaceful spot to relax and take in the scenery. I highly recommend this park for birdwatchers, nature lovers, and anyone looking to escape into a serene, well-kept natural space. I will definitely be coming back! read more

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Costs to get into this one, but worth it for the picnic area options, playground, and somewhat of a "beach" area in a way.

I used to like it more. While happy it's more popular than it used to be, am on the flip side missing the relaxing solitude. Would hike the trails here and see, either no one or very few people. That's no longer the case, and kudos to other folks being active. This is still a nice place to go. I'm not sure about swimming in the Potomac River. Fishing is decent from the walk out pier. Again I won't eat the catfish out of here, as I still have some concerns about pollution. They are of good size. Get chicken livers and catch lots of them. The parking lot is huge. If you have a boat they have a ramp. read more

This is a lovely park with scenic views of the Occoquan Bay and nice hiking trails with a lot of history. My two sons (15, 13 years old) and I came here on Thanksgiving Day to explore the fishing pier. You can find parking in the lot near Shelters 1, 2, and 3 - it's a short walk to the fishing pier. The shoreline near the fishing pier has a small sandy beach (great for young kids). I would also recommend a short hike along the Lee's Woods Trail, which includes an old civil war fort with lovely views of the Potomac River. You'll also walk by the fireplace ruins of a hunting lodge and Fairfax House (from the 1800s). In late November, a few trees still had colorful foliage. The full hike is about 2 miles, but you have the option of doing a partial hike as the trailhead passage breaks up the full loop. read more

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If you're looking for some lapping gentle waves and a sandy spot to lay your head down without fighting through traffic, Leesylvania State Park is the perfect place for you! Without traffic (thanks COVID), it is a quick shot down 95. There is a $6 per car parking fee and it can get quite busy on weekends but if you go on a Monday you'll find minimal families and space for you to stretch your toes out. I didn't go in the water but there were plenty of toddlers swimming. My brother-in-law said it can sometimes be rocky so wear water shoes but today the sand was quite soft. We were able to set up underneath a shady tree and our toddlers had fun finding seashells and building sand castles for a few hours. If you have hotspot you can even mobile work while you're there -- I've seen desperate parents do it! Is it an Aruba getaway? Not in the very least but it sure beats hanging out in front of a sad kiddie pool all summer. read more

Leesylvania State Park - Parks Near Me - Woodbridge, Virginia

This is an amazing find! We pulled up at 7AM and the partk rangers we already at the gate. They were incredibly helpful, friendly and answered questions. Since this was our first time here, we appreciated the time. Great trails and lovely beach area- the is dog friendly. We typically have to travel to Annapolis and Maryland for dog friendly spots- so finding this 15 minutes from our home was amazing. We will be buying a yearly pass. I will echo other reviewers: there was a lot of garbage, it seems folks just clean out their cars in the parking lots. Regardless, this was a lovely place. read more

This is a beautiful park to enjoy the outdoors, plus people who works there are very nice and kind, but PLEASE if you have a picnic or hiking, TAKE YOUR TRASH WITH YOU, It's no cool to see how much trash is around the shore and in the trails, while the trash cans are empty, there are also many charcoal containers where you can dispose all the charcoal left from the grills. Mother Nature should be appreciated, and people should be more conscious about how to preserve what they enjoy. Este es un hermoso parque para pasar el día al aire libre, la gente que trabaja aquí es amigable y amable, POR FAVOR si está va realizar picnic or hiking LLEVE SU BASURA CON USTED, no es agradable ver mucho basura por todos partes y por las orillas de la playa cuando los basureros son vacios, también tiene contenedores para poner los restos de carbón si usa parrilla. La madre naturaleza debe ser apreciado y respetado, las personas debemos ser conscientes y saber cuidar lo que se disfruta. read more

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I love coming to this park. There's benches and grills. It is almost empty on week days. However people always leave their trash and there's so much debris everywhere. Especially baby diapers. Pick up after yourselves, it's disgusting. read more

Leesylvania State Park - Beach - Parks Near Me - Woodbridge, Virginia

Great Park to visit with the Family !!! $7 entrance Fee is worth supporting places like this. Plenty of history and outdoor space to enjoy the whole day or more. Trails, Camping, water access for all types of watercraft. Different types of trails throughout the park for everybody. Plenty of wildlife and views for the photo buffs to enjoy. Lot of space so no need to feel crowded with prime waterfront views. read more

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Nice if you are doing anything but cycling. Went boating with some friends over the weekend. Very beautiful -not a large park but if you want something close to home this is the spot. You can rent boats, kayaks, etc.. They sell live bait.... no I don't fish. There is a $7.00 fee to get in. Plenty of parking. It's nice to live in a area that has options. read more

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Great place to launch a boat from Tae. If you get there a little after 12 o'clock you may not be able to get in.

Btw you have to pay a fee now. Just a car/truck $7. But if you got a bus or a boat or etc etc it is more. The park is still very nice and enjoy coming here read more

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This is one of my favorite scenic spots in Northern Virginia. It is absolutely beautiful, tranquil, and huge. Plenty of grills, picnic tables, and benches, all with a wonderful view of the water no matter where you are. It never feels overly crowded and there is plenty of space to spread out. There is playground for kids, as well as clean bathrooms (not porta potties!). My only gripe is the IMPOSSIBLE self pay option. If no one is at the gatehouse to take payments, there is a dropbox for cash, or a QR code for online payment. The online payment is hugely problematic, despite my best efforts today (and having to drive around 3 times bc cars kept piling up behind me), I was not able to get past the super basic captcha. Despite entering the few characters correctly and several times, I got an 'invalid captcha' error. I scrounge together enough cash to put in the drop box but it was a huge pain. read more

Leesylvania State Park - Parks Near Me - Woodbridge, Virginia

$5 will get you access to one of the prettiest parks in the state. It's a state park, so my annual national park pass wasn't valid. No biggie. The drive in to the park was very long and beautiful, but extremely stressful for my poor dog that just wanted to get out of the car and claim the land as his own. lol. There was soooooo much whining from the backseat! With that in mind, we parked at the first parking area we spotted and ended up walking around and through the boat launch area, the picnic area, the beaches and down to the very end of the park to hop on a trail. The picnic area is massive and really well kept. I also noted a lot of hammocks in the trees in little clusters, so there are lots of great places to unwind. There were people swimming, tanning, and riding jet skis in the water-you know, normal beach stuff. We opted to do a short loop, up the a beautiful scenic overlook, around to the bunker on the hill and back down to the amphitheater. I was able to snap lots of pictures and my dog passed out on the way home... so a good time was had by all! The only thing I would have done different, is I guess I should have looked at a map; as I would have liked to hike a little more, but had no idea where each trail lead and didn't see any signs indicating difficulty. read more

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Another great Va State Park. Sitting alongside the Historic Potomac River, it's easy to pull out the binoculars and find interesting things your eyes can't reach on their own. Three great things to bring here. Water, snack and binoculars! I enjoyed sitting to listen to the water hit the shore like tiny little waves. It was relaxing. I walked a couple trails (including part of the Potomac Heritage trail) and hit the Visitors Center. Shirts on sale there. I got one. I'm sure I'll come back again. I have to renew my fishing license and I never did make it to the "beach" side with the pier. My fav part? Watching the train on that beautiful bridge. That really got me. So fun.Neat. *****I do need to sadly add that this Vastatepark had the most trash on the ground than Any I have ever been too. I understand there's trash in the run off from flooding and from private home's trash cans but thats not all. Im talking about visitors to the park who Pollute our parks and waterways!!!!! Makes me furious to see all the trash here. Next time I'll bring my own bag and clean up. Its ridiculous. read more

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Tried to go in at noon and was turned-around to not go in without an explanation. From there we went to the Forest Park area; Forest Park area a definite 5-star. read more

We are frequent visitor of Leesylvannia State Park. Beautiful place while my kids are playing on the sand and water or in the playground. We will keep coming back. read more

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We've been going here for so many years since we moved to Woodbridge in 2013. This ranger boy earlier told us they wouldn't let anyone in due to "high capacity" WHILE 10 different cars full of people passed us during the short time I was talking to them. He told us it would take couple hours before they opened again. He told us there were too many people inside, but I kept seeing people leaving. We were here a week ago when they did the same thing, closed the park when people were also leaving, turned away my family member that came a little late to our party and told her it would also take a couple of hours before they open. They turned away ONE PERSON when several cars full of people kept leaving. The benches around where we were were also empty and the whole park seemed to be all calm, so where are all this "high capacity" of people. I could understand maybe they're understaff or they really have a good reason to close for a couple of hours and I know Ms. Rona is still here and they're trying to be safe, but they should've anticipated this, specially on Labor Day. Their system to close down the park altogether in the middle of a holiday is so stupid for a state park. read more

I enjoy this park, plenty of wooded area to walk, park has trail, in the summer you can enjoy, barbeque and bathing in the river the water is a little discolor. park does have a entrance fee of $10.00 read more

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We went on 5/17/20. $10 admission . We were approached by one park ranger who said this beach was closed except for fishing and exercise. We were fishing. Then about 2 hours later we were approached by another park ranger who said fishing was not allowed on the beach. He apologized for the "misinformation". On our way out there was a sign posted that said beach closed except for fishing and exercise. Very confusing. Also on your way in you pay $10 and there was no mention of the beach being closed. Just FYI. Lovely area though. Will def be back after the orders are lifted. read more

Leesylvania State Park - Fishing area that turned out not to be a fishing area. We were right beside the boat ramp. - Parks Near Me - Woodbridge, Virginia

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My wife found a 1 mil trail for us to stretch our legs before dinner. The drive to the parking area wasn't bad. There is a small parking fee when you entire the place and I wish I had known about the annual pass as we just moved into the area. After parking you can walk left or right and there is a dock to the left. Where were a bunch of people fishing so we didn't stay long. Most of the people walking were wearing masks and it was very enjoyable. read more

Clean park, short trails with a little bit of history, and just enough beach to get your toes wet and practice fishing. Populated, but not crowed. The park Police stroll through every once and a while to keep things orderly, and a park representative floats around to tell you more than you ever wanted to know about the Ospreys. Definitely a great way to kill a few hours for only $6 per car! read more

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What a gorgeous park & a hidden gem in the NOVA area. Picnic areas galore, lots of trails that are relatively flat, water views, nearby railroad (nostalgia), and tons of parking. There are boat rentals I believe, and a snack bar in one of the main parking areas. This is a must-see! read more

Bad experience, was fishing at this park and got a ticket even though I have a fishing license, they said they couldn't find it in the system. no first time warning to anybody,so be aware about this spot about fishing. read more

Because of the "Rona" there's not many places to go to get my exercise, but this is one of the spots I found until the damn government try and close this up like everything else! Smdh getting very tired of just going to work and not being able to go to a gym just trying to keep sane while getting fresh air and exercises! When this is all over I will still be coming here a couple times a week to still get a nice run/hike in! read more

Nice area. Don't like that they charge you per vehicle for entry. I feel entitled to getting into this park for free because it's a State Park. Oh well. It is lovely in the spring. There are picnic tables and a little beach , complete with white sand. One of Woodbridge's best kept secrets. read more

It's wonderful to know that woodbridge has a state park where people are able to ride their boats or jet ski. What i have enjoyed about this park is that they provide grills, seating, and tables. As well, dogs are welcomed. Restrooms are provided and many children and adults go into the ocean for a quick swim. As well as you continue walking there are small parks for kids and people fishing. I came on a Sunday later in the evening it was 7 dollars. The prices probably change during the seasons. Would definitely recommend this place to see something different in woodbridge. read more

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This park is absolutely beautiful and by far one of the best parks here in Northern Virginia. The park is a perfect place to relax and get in exercise during this pandemic. I take my dog walking here often and it always is very clean and is the perfect get away with gorgeous views of the water. It also has a pier for fishing and a playground for children along with many picnic tables. There are many historical aspects to this park as well and is a great place to being with family and friends while social distancing. read more

Leesylvania State Park - Potomac river - Parks Near Me - Woodbridge, Virginia

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Nice for fishing, there is beach and you can hear a lot of bird. ........I wish if it was free i will be here ever day ... read more

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It was a wonderful area the water and sand their were very nice and the people who were there also helped us out when we couldn't find the beach area. Only problem I would say is the fee you hd to oay and there being a lot of things being buried in the sand that could hurt someone. read more

I went here in June and loved it. Great staff, great programs. The hike was nice. The beach pretty. I would definitely go back read more

Leesylvania State Park - Parks Near Me - Woodbridge, Virginia

Parking is $5 but it's definitely worth it. This place is a hidden gem full of nature and wildlife and it's never very popular. The perfect place to go when you want some solace from the craziness of everyday life. read more

Leesylvania State Park - Parks Near Me - Woodbridge, Virginia

I was completely stunned when my colleague told me about this place. She lives steps from the entrance of the park, and when she invited me to join her in a day of festivities here -- I couldn't turn her down. Leesylvania State Park has some interesting history from being owned by Lord Fairfax and having tidbits involvement of the Civil War, this park has covered a lot of ground. Currently it is established as a state park that is adorned by a massive lake for all water activities, camp grounds, all level hiking trails, and of course recreational areas for the kiddies. Today we only utilized the picnicking and swimming components. I have to say the lake itself is fairly clean to swim in... this coming from someone who has also swam in the Mighty Mississippi River and the Potomac -- my point of view might be subjective. I had no problem with it, and by what I could tell the other few folks that were also around us didn't mind it too much either. People were out on their jet skis, boats, and some people were fishing. From where I stood about 50 feet off the shore, I was still standing on my flat feet pretty comfortably. It isn't that deep. If your bring young children here --say around the age 4 or 5 -- and they might not be so confident in their swimming abilities -- they are able to wade in the shallow waters towards the beach without being knocked over from the waves. Again, they could even venture about 20 feet from shore and still be okay without any incident. Common sense though -- always be with your kids in the water if they're not wearing a life jackets or floaties. The cover charge for entering the park for parking is $7. I forgot to read the rest of what the sign said for other uses of the park, but it pretty much went up from there. I am definitely already due to return to see what else this place has to offer. I was very happy and impressed with this visit and can't wait to make the drive back down. Be advised though -- this place does turn into a zoo on the weekends during the summer. Your best bet to catch this place being relaxing and without much havoc is during a week day. read more

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What a HIDDEN GEM!! Who would've guessed a beach was tucked away in Woodbridge?? My friends and I visited for the first time a few weeks ago and we fell in love. We mainly came for the beach area since we heard dogs were permitted. We were shocked to find so many picnic tables, grills, and shelters available for rent that we have decided we will be back for a group BBQ! Our pups had an amazing time splashing around on the beach. The beach stretches over a large area so it didn't feel crowded at all. Some people brought their own canoes/kayaks to take out on the water. There were also some for rent. For a small entrance fee of $5 (they accept credit card), I could stay here all day! read more

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This park is AWESOME!!! I was reading up on recommendations for beaches nearby and thought of giving it a shot since it's closer to home and not 3 hours away. The first time here was the last Wednesday and I was blown away. I hail from the shores of Huntington Beach, CA and have visited beaches all along the coast of CA and one in NC. I know this isn't a "true beach" to some, but it's got sand and nice warm water--I'll take it! I used to go to a place similar to this in CA when I was a child where there weren't any waves... I literally teared up when I snuck a peak at the water while driving to the parking lot. I brought my 2.5 year old daughter, some sand toys, snacks and we had a blast! I had no idea there was a playground and a ton of BBQ pits to cook on. We ended up going back yesterday and yeah, it's 20 miles and costs $4 (weekday price) and worth it. It's quiet if you get there early and so peaceful, literally didn't feel like we were in the hustle and bustle of the city anymore. I really cannot wait to go back! I can't wait to explore the trails :) read more

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Great park. 1-star review: Read the signs about no re-entry and you'll know the rules. It's true that some folks don't pick up all there trash so carry some out if you find it and help the rangers. read more

This is a hidden gem in Woodbridge! A wonderful spot for my wife and I to have a nice midday picnic. The good: this place is a gorgeous little park hidden down a back road in Woodbridge. They have ample parking, picnic areas, and hiking trails for all abilities. There are also some areas for the kids to play with nearby seating for the accompanying adults. The bad: I know it's not really their fault, but the park entrance fee is kind of ridiculous. I pay income tax in VA, why can't residents get a reduced fee? Four of five for the beautiful park but disappointing entrance fee! read more

Leesylvania State Park - Parks Near Me - Woodbridge, Virginia

After having visited Leesylvania State Park twice during COVID, I can say that this is definitely a spot to hit up during the week (I've not visited on weekends) if you want a bit of sand, small waves, and room for social distancing. Both visits we have brought lunch (once from home, once from Wawa) and spent a few hours. The entrance fee is minimal, and it's super convenient you can park right near the beach as opposed to some places you have to walk a distance to get to the beach. It's only about a 30-40 minute drive from Arlington. The "beach" is a nice mixture of sand and shells and the water is pretty warm, surprisingly. I would say, though, if you have little ones in the "everything in my mouth" stage, be careful. On both visits, I Luckily spotted some beer bottle caps before my son did. I much prefer Leesylvania State Park to Mason Neck if we are just looking at "get wet in the water" opportunities. Although my complex pool has reopened, I will still probably visit with my son at least one more time this summer-he can't get enough of the waves! read more

I've really been enjoying this park this summer. I recently relocated nearby from Rhode Island where nature and water are very accessible. While I miss the ocean being a mile from my front door, the beach here is a good substitute. I look forward to many early mornings and not so lazy afternoons hiking about the several trails. I finally bought kayaks and am anxious to wander around that way. Clean grounds in exception to your occasional litter bug. Great for families. read more

At various times this point of land has been a wilderness explored by Captain John Smith, an Indian village, a plantation owned by "Lighthorse" Harry Lee, a strategic military blockade site under Harry's son Robert E.Lee, a private estate owned by tycoon Daniel Ludwig, an amusement park with a gambling pier (in the 50s), and now a recreation area. I learned all this in the tiny visitor center. Why would you go here today? It has vast facilities for launching boats in the Occoquan Bay and on the Potomac, and nice quiet trails with views of the picturesque railroad bridges. Today was beastly hot, but a cooler breeze came from the water. read more

Leesylvania State Park - Parks Near Me - Woodbridge, Virginia