Day Trips from Alexandria
← All Alexandria day tripsDay Trips from Alexandria: State Parks & Natural Areas
The best state parks and natural areas within driving distance of Alexandria, VA. Hiking, camping, swimming, and stunning scenery without the national park crowds. Real drive times, ratings, and visitor info included.
12 state parks near Alexandria
Patuxent River State Park Nature Center
Brookeville, MD 20833
Just 1 hr 2 min from Alexandria, rated 4.8 stars, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Susquehannock State Park
Drumore, PA 17518
Just 2 hrs 7 min from Alexandria, rated 4.8 stars by 797 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Hughlett Point Natural Area Preserve
VA 22482, USA
Just 2 hrs 35 min from Alexandria, rated 4.8 stars by 349 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Mason Neck State Park
Lorton, VA 22079
Just 35 min from Alexandria, rated 4.7 stars by 1,218 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Shenandoah River State Park
Bentonville, VA 22610
Just 1 hr 27 min from Alexandria, rated 4.7 stars by 1,669 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Caledon State Park
King George, VA 22485
Just 1 hr 18 min from Alexandria, rated 4.7 stars by 776 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Chesapeake and Ohio Canal National Historical Park
Potomac, MD 20854
Just 36 min from Alexandria, rated 4.7 stars by 2,735 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Pine Grove Furnace State Park
Gardners, PA 17324
Just 2 hrs 1 min from Alexandria, rated 4.7 stars by 2,403 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Susquehanna State Park
Havre De Grace, MD 21078
Just 1 hr 36 min from Alexandria, rated 4.7 stars by 1,937 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Dora Kelley Nature Park
Alexandria, VA 22311
Just 22 min from Alexandria, rated 4.7 stars by 550 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Prince William Forest Park
Triangle, VA 22172
Just 34 min from Alexandria, rated 4.7 stars by 2,381 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Patuxent River Park - Jug Bay Natural Area
Upper Marlboro, MD 20772
Just 41 min from Alexandria, rated 4.7 stars by 335 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Frequently Asked Questions About State Parks Day Trips from Alexandria
What are the best state parks near Alexandria, VA?
The best state parks near Alexandria offer hiking, camping, swimming, fishing, and scenic overlooks. Check the cards above for top-rated parks with drive times, ratings, and budget estimates.
How much does it cost to visit state parks near Alexandria?
Most state parks near Alexandria charge a vehicle entry fee of $5-$15 per day. Annual passes are usually available for $25-$50 and pay for themselves in 2-3 visits. Camping fees are separate and vary by site type.
Which state parks near Alexandria are best for camping?
Several state parks within driving distance of Alexandria offer campgrounds ranging from primitive tent sites to full-hookup RV sites with showers. Book early for summer weekends, as popular parks fill up months in advance.
What is the best time to visit state parks near Alexandria?
Spring and fall offer the best weather and smallest crowds at state parks near Alexandria. Summer is great for swimming and camping but parks are busiest. Winter visits are peaceful and many parks stay open year-round for hiking.
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