Popes Creek Picnic Area at George Washington Birthplace National Monument

There are two picnic areas at George Washington Birthplace National Monument.

POPES CREEK PICNIC AREA

The Popes Creek Picnic Area is the main place to picnic at the park. It is located north of the Birthplace Site on the opposite side of Dancing Marsh. You can drive to it, and there is a large parking area that can hold about 25 cars. The picnic area is open Wednesdays through Sundays from 9 AM to 5 PM.

Parking lot for the Popes Creek Picnic Area at George Washington Birthplace National Monument

The grounds of Popes Creek Picnic Area are level and well manicured. There are about a dozen picnic tables under shade trees and out in the open sunshine, though you can move them to where you like. Grills are available, but since the tables are constantly moved around, many are now nowhere near the tables. Feel free to move one next to a grill if it suits your purpose.

Picnic tables and grills at Popes Creek Picnic Area, George Washington Birthplace National Monument

Grills by themselves at Popes Creek Picnic Area, George Washington Birthplace National Monument

In addition to the standard tables is a covered pavilion. It contains 12 picnic tables and two grills and can host up to 75 people. The pavilion can be reserved for a fee, otherwise it is available on a first come, first served basis. You can make a reservation up to one year in advance online at Recreation.gov or by calling (877) 444-6777. Current fees are listed on the website. If you have a group of 25 or more people, you must get a Special Use Permit from the National Park Service in addition to renting the pavilion.

Pavilion at Popes Creek Picnic Area, George Washington Birthplace National Monument

A modern restroom facility and water fountain at the picnic area are available during the spring, summer, and fall. The facility is closed in the winter. Also, this is not a “bring your trash with you” park, so there are garbage dumpsters available.

Restroom at Popes Creek Picnic Area, George Washington Birthplace National Monument

The picnic area is located on Popes Creek. Fishing is allowed here, and it is a popular spot for such activity. When I visited, most of the people were fishing, not picnicking.

Picnic table with a view of Popes Creek at the Popes Creek Picnic Area, George Washington Birthplace National Monument

Ramp to Popes Creek at the Popes Creek Picnic Area, George Washington Birthplace National Monument

Popes Creek in Colonial Beach, Virginia

VISITOR CENTER PICNIC AREA

Three picnic tables are located along Popes Creek outside the George Washington Birthplace National Monument Visitor Center. These are tables for those who just want a bite to eat before exploring the park or heading home for the day. There are no grills.

Picnic table at the George Washington Birthplace National Monument Visitor Center

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