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State Parks/Northern Va.

NoVa

NoVa.

Regional parks

Anna State Park

6800 Lawyers Road, Spotsylvania

(540) 854-5503

The land in Lake Anna State Park used to be known as “Gold Hill”

and contained the Goodwin Gold Mine. Gold was first discovered in 1829

with mining reaching its peak in the 1880s. The last gold to be found

was in a zinc mine during the 1940s. In 1971 Lake Anna was created to

serve as a water coolant for Dominion Virginia Power’s nuclear plant.

Lake Anna is well known for its large-mouth bass fishing. Other activities

include boating, swimming and camping.

Leesylvania

State Park

2001 Daniel K. Ludwig Dr., Woodbridge

(703) 670-0372

This 508-acre park on a peninsula bordered by the Potomac River, Neabsco

Creek and Powells Creek features overnight camping sites, fishing and

boating on the Potomac River, picnic shelters and interpretive programs.

In 2003, Hurricane Isabel damaged the boat dock facilities, but temporary

piers have been opened.

Mason Neck

State Park

7301 High Point Road, Lorton

(703) 339-2385

Mason Neck State Park is situated on a peninsula formed by Pohick Bay

on the north, Belmont Bay on the south and the Potomac River on the east.

The peninsula is the site of an active heron rookery. The park also attracts

several other migrating and non-migrating species of birds, including

whistling swans and assorted species of duck. Bald eagles also inhabit

the area. The park boasts several hundred acres of hardwood forests consisting

of oaks, holly, hickory and other species of trees. In addition, several

wetland areas are also found in Mason Neck. Fresh and brackish water fishing

are available with a valid Virginia fishing license. Car-top launch facilities

available; no facilities for trailer launching. Programs include beachcombing,

pond study, bird-watching, canoe trips, fishing clinic, active volunteer

program, night hikes, teacher workshops, hands-on experiential educational

opportunities, evening programs, butterfly gardens, E.A.G.L.E. programs.