Jones Point Park | Alexandria

Overview and Location

Jones Point Park is a significant riverside park situated in Alexandria, Virginia, just south of the historic Old Town district. The park stretches over approximately 65 acres along the Potomac River and is managed by the National Park Service as part of the George Washington Memorial Parkway. It serves as both a recreational area and a site of rich historical importance, offering visitors a blend of natural beauty, outdoor activities, and cultural heritage.

The park’s location makes it easily accessible by car, bike, and foot, and it acts as a popular destination for residents and tourists alike seeking scenic views of the Potomac River, engaging recreational opportunities, and a connection to the area’s past.

Historical Significance

Jones Point Park holds notable historical value tied to navigation, military industry, and early American history.

Jones Point Lighthouse: One of the park’s most prominent historical features is the Jones Point Lighthouse, constructed in 1855. It is the last remaining riverine lighthouse in Virginia and served as a crucial navigational aid for ships traveling on the Potomac River until it was decommissioned in 1926. The lighthouse stands as a preserved symbol of 19th-century maritime history and coastal engineering.

Shipbuilding Heritage: During World War I, the area encompassing Jones Point was home to the Virginia Shipbuilding Corporation. This facility was instrumental in the war effort, constructing ships for the U.S. Navy. Today, remnants and artifacts related to this shipbuilding history, such as large ship rudders, are displayed within the park, commemorating its industrial past.

Boundary Marker: The park features a commemorative boundary stone marking the original borders between the District of Columbia, Maryland, and Virginia. This marker reflects the park’s geographic and political significance during the formation of the nation's capital region.

Natural Features and Recreation

Jones Point Park offers a wide variety of outdoor recreational amenities amidst its natural setting:

Trails and Walkways: The park includes stroller-friendly gravel trails that wind through hardwood forests and along the river’s edge. These trails form part of the larger Mount Vernon Trail system, popular among walkers, joggers, and cyclists, and provide stunning views of the Potomac River and the nearby Woodrow Wilson Bridge.

Fishing Piers: Two designated fishing piers allow anglers to fish for species such as catfish, rock bass, and American eels. Anglers must possess a valid Virginia fishing license. These piers offer a peaceful setting for fishing enthusiasts to enjoy the river environment.

Canoe and Kayak Access: The park provides a designated launch area for non-motorized watercraft including canoes and kayaks, granting easy access to the Potomac River. However, docking boats at the launch area is prohibited to maintain safety and accessibility.

Playgrounds: There are two well-equipped playgrounds catering to different age groups - one designed for children under five years old and another for children aged six to ten. These play areas are thoughtfully designed to provide safe, engaging environments for young visitors.

Sports Facilities: The park features two basketball courts and multi-use fields where visitors can engage in informal sports and recreational activities. These facilities are available on a first-come, first-served basis.

Amenities and Facilities

Jones Point Park is equipped with essential amenities to enhance visitor comfort:

Restrooms: Public restrooms are conveniently located beneath the Woodrow Wilson Bridge, ensuring easy access for visitors.

Water Fountains: Drinking fountains are available, including dog-friendly water bowls, making the park welcoming for pet owners.

Picnic Areas: Scattered picnic tables provide spots for visitors to relax and enjoy meals amid the natural surroundings. These are limited in number, so early arrival is advisable for groups planning to picnic.

Parking: Free parking is provided at the end of Jones Point Drive, with additional parking available on nearby city streets, subject to posted regulations.

Educational and Interpretive Features

Jones Point Park integrates educational elements to highlight its natural and cultural history:

Interpretive Trail: A marked gravel trail features informational displays about the area's ecosystem, including the freshwater marsh habitat, indigenous American Indian use of the land, and the region’s role in shipbuilding and river navigation. These exhibits enrich visitor understanding of the park’s environmental and historical context.

Accessibility and Policies

The park is designed to accommodate visitors of all ages and abilities, with level trails suitable for strollers and wheelchairs along parts of the park.

Pets are welcome in the park but must be kept on a leash no longer than six feet at all times. Visitors are responsible for cleaning up after their pets to maintain the park’s cleanliness and safety.

Visitor Information

Address: 1 Jones Point Drive, Alexandria, VA

Hours: Open daily from 6:00 AM to 10:00 PM

Contact: Phone number 703-289-2500, George Washington Memorial Parkway Headquarters, 700 George Washington Memorial Parkway, McLean, VA 22101

Summary

Jones Point Park stands as a multifaceted destination where history, nature, and recreation come together. Its riverside location offers picturesque views, while the presence of the historic Jones Point Lighthouse and shipbuilding artifacts connect visitors to the region’s rich maritime and industrial heritage. The park’s extensive trail network, fishing piers, playgrounds, and sports facilities provide diverse recreational opportunities for families, outdoor enthusiasts, and history buffs. Managed by the National Park Service, Jones Point Park is an accessible, well-maintained space that preserves and celebrates the natural and cultural legacy of Alexandria, Virginia.