Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next George Washington Birthplace National Monument adventure.
While all the buildings here are replicas, this national monument gives you a good sense of how Washington grew up. You can't go inside without taking a tour, but the rangers definitely know their stuff, and you'll learn a lot. In some ways, this spot is more satisfying than a visit to Mount Vernon, because there are fewer crowds. You can see several historical artifacts from Washington's life and his actual birthplace.
The informative movie at the Visitor Center is a great way to start your visit. Stick around to explore the grounds as well. The walk alongside the river and along Pope's Creek is beautiful and peaceful, and there are picnic tables and a beach if you want to pack a lunch. Birders should keep their eyes open here, as there are plenty of species to spot—you may even see a bald eagle. Kids will enjoy getting to see what a real farm is like, and the costumed re-enactors help it all come to life.
Hipcamp has plenty of campsites and cabins available around the eastern Virginia area. Pitch your tent in a forest or on a working farm, or hook up your RV at a waterfront oasis.