Conveniently located between Richmond and Washington, D.C., the Fredericksburg region, consisting of Stafford County, Spotsylvania County and the city of Fredericksburg, offers outdoor enthusiasts a nearly-endless supply of activities year-round. Here are just a few of our favorites:
ON THE WATER
Rappahannock River
The Rappahannock River in eastern Virginia is the country’s longest free-flowing river in the eastern United States. Enjoy the river on your own or discover a number of river outfitters in the area that offer kayaking, fishing and tubing trips.
Lake Anna
Among Virginia’s most popular lakes, Lake Anna offers 13,000 scenic acres of sailing, water-skiing and sport fishing. Boaters can launch boats at the lake’s marinas or take a rental for a spin. At Lake Anna State Park, guests can rent cabins, yurts and lodges for up to 16 people. The park boasts miles of pristine hiking and horseback riding trails.
Widewater State Park
Widewater State Park, which just opened in the fall of 2018, offers two miles of shoreline along the Potomac River. The park features beaches, hiking trails, picnic shelters, a public boat launch and a visitor center.
TAKE A HIKE
Government Island
Now a natural park preserve and archaeological site, Government Island contains a trail and interpretive signs to help depict its rich, nationally significant history (the stone from the Quarry was used to build the White House and the U.S. Capitol). With a 1.5 mile trail, Government Island is an ideal location to observe aquatic and native plants, as well as birds and other wildlife.
Crow’s Nest Natural Area Preserve
The topography of Crow’s Nest Natural Area Preserve is varied, with the high narrow ridgeline rising 160 feet above two tidally influenced creeks: Potomac and Accokeek. Crow’s Nest also includes a shoreline birding/nature trail to viewpoints of Accokeek Creek, and an ADA-accessible canoe/kayak launch facility for the Crow’s Nest Water Trail.
Battlefields
Geographically located halfway between the Union and Confederate capital cities, the Fredericksburg region is surrounded by Civil War battlefields and historic sites. The battles of Fredericksburg, Chancellorsville, the Wilderness and Spotsylvania Courthouse all raged within a 20-mile radius. These battlefields are all protected by the National Park Service and offer a number of activities.
GRAPES & GRAINS
Potomac Point Winery
Potomac Point Winery is a beautiful, Mediterranean-style winery. The estate includes a delicious bistro, tasting room, internal courtyard, pavilion and event room. Just one mile from the Potomac River, the location was selected because of its rich history, fertile soil and river influences.
A. Smith Bowman Distillery
A staple of Spotsylvania, A. Smith Bowman Distillery balances time-honored traditions with innovation and creativity to produce hand-crafted spirits. The distillery offers a large venue to gather, as well as tours and tastings throughout the day.
Spencer Devon Brewery
A full-service brewery and restaurant in the heart of downtown Fredericksburg, Spencer Devon focuses on providing exceptionally crafted beer and a quality dining experience using locally derived ingredients.
Start planning your Fredericksburg area adventure at visitfred.com.
