Leesylvania State Park might sound like it’s the site of a Civil War-era vampire flick, but it’s actually full of a lot of history. And it’s pretty darn beautiful to boot. While this charming state park wasn’t fully open until 1992, its history dates back more than a hundred years before the Civil War. There are a lot of unique features and landmarks in this small 542-acre state park. Let’s jump in:

In 1747 Henry Lee II settled in the area where he and his wife Lucy Grymes raised their eight children.
Kelly Verdeck/Flickr
It turns out, 'ole Henry Lee II's descendants were pretty important figures in American history. His son Henry "Light Horse Harry" Lee was a Revolutionary War hero who became the ninth governor of Virginia. Henry Lee II's grandson was none other than Civil War general, Robert E. Lee.

Only a small cornerstone of the Lee house remains, but Henry II and his wife Lucy are still buried in Leesylvania State Park. This memorial to Henry Lee III is a prominent feature in the park.
In 1825 the property was sold to Henry Fairfax. This restored chimney is the only thing that remains of the Fairfax home.
Kelly Verdeck/Flickr
During the Civil War the land where the state park now calls home was used as a gun emplacement for a small Confederate force. On September 25, 1861, the site saw its first and only battle.
Kelly Verdeck/Flickr

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While there are quite a few historic elements still remaining in the park that delight history buffs, the biggest draw is probably the 300-foot fishing pier.
Photo Provided by PZ Sunrays
The most wonderful sunrises over the water can be seen standing on this impressive fishing pier. The most unique feature of the pier is that it starts in Virginia but crosses over into Maryland about a third of the way out.
The Leesylvania State Park has five hiking trails, each with their own unique sights, historical landmarks, places to explore, and wildlife to discover.
Renee Reynolds/AllTrails
And the natural sandy shoreline makes for an impromptu place to play in the sand and dip your toes in the cool waters of the Potomac River.
Virginia State Parks/Flickr
All in all, this treasured hidden gem state park is filled with history and natural beauty that is definitely worth a trip.
nad sho/Google

Have you discovered this hidden gem? Let us know your favorite part with a comment. Then, take a look at one of Leesylvania State Park’s hikes, the Potomac Trail, in the fall. It is absolutely gorgeous.

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Leesylvania State Park, 2001 Daniel K Ludwig Dr, Woodbridge, VA 22191, USA