Visit - Cedar Creek Battlefield Foundation

Plan Your Visit With CCBF

The landscape of the Cedar Creek Battlefield is constantly threatened by Northern Virginia’s rapid development. Since our foundation was established, CCBF alone has preserved over 350 acres of central battlegrounds, including the Federal 19th Corps Earthworks, a section of the Federal 6th Corps position, and the centrally located Heater House. The Heater House, named for the family that lived there during the Civil War era, is the last remaining structure of the original 18th century homestead that witnessed the Battle of Cedar Creek and over 260 years of Shenandoah Valley history.

Across these must see features, the Battle of Cedar Creek comes to life through our museum exhibits, guided and self-guided tours, outdoor trails, a nationally recognized annual reenactment, and lessons by costumed interpreters during special weekend programs. In addition, presentations, book signings, and hands-on workshops are scheduled throughout the year to share the diverse stories and rich history of the Shenandoah Valley, life during the mid-19th century, and more. For the outdoor enthusiast, multiple walking and hiking trails are available for exploration. The pavilion along our trail or the picnic tables located on the Visitor Center front porch are perfect for a snack break. Stop by and enjoy the unique view in our corner of the Shenandoah Valley, including breathtaking mountain sunsets!

Free Museum

A FREE museum experience featuring original artifacts from the American Civil War and mid-19th century Shenandoah Valley, handmade dioramas, artwork, farming equipment, and more! Coloring pages, interactive activities, scavenger hunts, a Costume Corner, an audio exhibit, and documentary film also await. Exhibits are updated regularly, so no two visits are the same!

Visitor Center and Gift Shop

Staff are available at the front desk to answer questions, direct you to Passport Stamps, and help you explore the Park and our Partners. Be sure to visit the gift shop, featuring souvenirs, artisan crafts, reproduction 19th century items, books, and more! Our shop’s proceeds support our mission and assist CCBF with daily operating costs so we can continue to offer programs, update exhibits, and maintain the historic landscape.

Library, Research, and Conference Space

A FREE Library and Research area available to the public by appointment. Two desktop computers with internet access, printing services (for a fee 10 cents per page), magazine and book reference materials, and much more are available. Please complete an inquiry through our Contact Us form to schedule an appointment. Our Conference area and select locations within the Museum and Visitor Center are available for reservations for small groups (for a small fee to aid in facility care). The Facility User Agreement and list of qualifying organizations/groups can be found here.

Pavilion, Pollinator Garden, and Picnic Tables

A beautiful outdoor space surrounding our Museum and Visitor Center is available for public use from sunrise to sunset. Stop by to read interpretive markers, stretch your legs on our walking trail, or to enjoy lunch over looking the beautiful Belle Grove Plantation and the heart of the Cedar Creek Battlefield.

19th Corps Earthworks Trail

In the days before the Battle of Cedar Creek, the Federal 19th Corps dug a series of earthworks to fortify their position located just south of Middletown, Virginia. 160 years later, color blazed hiking trails with interpretive markers allow visitors to explore the still visible earthworks, but please stay on the trail! Trails are open from sunrise to sunset.

Historic Heater House

The Heater House is the only surviving piece of what was once a much larger homestead. The original footprint (the larger portion of the building) is a log structure that dates back over 260 years, decades before the founding of Middletown, Virginia. Though typically closed to the public, during special weekend events, this witness structure of the Battle of Cedar Creek is open to share restoration progress, presentations from living history interpreters, and tours to share its incredible story. Donations toward its restoration can be made using the QR code below (or click the QR code to open the donation window). More to come!