Staunton River Battlefield State Park | Staunton

Staunton River Battlefield State Park, situated in Randolph, Virginia, spans approximately 300 acres across Halifax and Charlotte counties. This historic site commemorates the Battle of Staunton River Bridge, a significant Confederate victory during the American Civil War, and offers visitors a blend of history, nature, and recreation.

Historical Significance

On June 25, 1864, a Confederate force of about 700-comprising older men and young boys-successfully defended the Staunton River Bridge against a Union cavalry assault of approximately 5,000 troops. This battle, often referred to as the "Battle of Old Men and Young Boys," played a crucial role in protecting vital supply lines to General Robert E. Lee's army during the Siege of Petersburg.

The park preserves several key historical features:

Staunton River Bridge: The original wooden bridge was destroyed during the battle. The current iron bridge, constructed in 1902, spans 600 feet and serves as a focal point for visitors.

Confederate Earthworks: The park boasts some of the most well-preserved Civil War-era earthworks in Virginia. These fortifications, constructed by Confederate forces, are included on the National Register of Historic Places and offer insight into 19th-century military engineering.

Mulberry Hill Plantation: Once the home of Judge Paul Carrington, this plantation served as Union General Wilson's headquarters during the battle. The plantation house and its grounds are accessible for special events and guided tours.

Visitor Centers

The park features two visitor centers:

Clover Visitor Center: Located at 1035 Fort Hill Trail, this center offers exhibits on the Civil War battle, Native American history, and local wildlife. It also provides information on the nearby Clover Power Station and its role in energy production. The center is open on weekends from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Roanoke Station Visitor Center: Situated at 6000 Roanoke Station Road, this early 20th-century train depot houses a museum displaying Native American artifacts from the nearby archaeological site. Note that this center is currently closed for renovations.

Trails and Outdoor Activities

The park offers several trails catering to hikers, bikers, and nature enthusiasts:

Battlefield Trail: A 1.2-mile self-guided trail that follows the historic rail bed from Fort Hill to Randolph. The trail crosses the Staunton River Bridge and meanders through a wildflower meadow and wetlands, providing historical context and scenic views.

Edgewood Nature Trail: A 0.75-mile pedestrian trail that traverses wetlands and features two wildlife observation towers. Visitors can observe diverse flora and fauna, including wood ducks and great horned owls.

Mulberry Hill Trail: An 0.8-mile loop around the Mulberry Hill pond, offering views of the historic plantation house and its gardens.

Roanoke Creek Trail: A 2.6-mile trail suitable for hiking and biking, extending through scenic areas adjacent to the park.

The park also features a nature play area crafted from natural materials, allowing children to engage with the environment creatively.

Archaeological Site

The park encompasses the Wade Site, a 3,000-year-old Native American settlement and burial ground. Excavations, led by Longwood University's Archaeology Field School, have uncovered artifacts shedding light on the daily life of the Sappony people. The site is included on the National Register of Historic Places, and artifacts are displayed at the Roanoke Station Visitor Center.

Wildlife and Wetlands

Staunton River Battlefield State Park is home to one of the largest managed wetlands east of the Mississippi River. The wetlands support a rich diversity of wildlife, including:

Birds: Wood ducks, herons, egrets, hawks, and great horned owls.

Mammals: White-tailed deer, wild turkeys, and squirrels.

Reptiles and Amphibians: Painted turtles, snakes, salamanders, and frogs.

The park's wetlands are also a haven for various butterfly species, contributing to its designation as a Certified Monarch Waystation.

Fishing and Boating

The Staunton River offers opportunities for fishing and boating. Anglers can expect to catch species such as walleye, channel catfish, white perch, and various bass species. For those interested in boating, nearby Buggs Island Lake provides additional options for water recreation.

Events and Programs

The park hosts several annual events and programs, including:

Lighting of the Bridge: A seasonal event showcasing the Staunton River Bridge illuminated with holiday lights.

Ranger-led Programs: Educational sessions focusing on Civil War history, local ecology, and Native American heritage.

Special Events: The park commemorates the Battle of Staunton River Bridge with reenactments and historical demonstrations.

Visitor Information

Address: 1035 Fort Hill Trail, Randolph, VA 23962

Phone: (434) 454-4312

Hours: The park is open daily from 8 a.m. to dusk. The Clover Visitor Center operates on weekends from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Admission: The park is free to visit; however, fees may apply for special programs and events.

Staunton River Battlefield State Park offers a unique blend of historical significance and natural beauty, making it a valuable destination for those interested in Civil War history, archaeology, and outdoor recreation.