On April 6, 1865, over 7,700 men from Confederate General Robert E. Lee's army were killed, wounded, or captured at the Sayler’s Creek Battlefield in Virginia. General Lee surrendered 72 hours afterward. A portion of the land from the battle of Sayler’s Creek is included in the 341 acres within Sailor's Creek Battlefield State Park.
The Sailor's Creek Battlefield State Park hosts a number of historical programs and living history events throughout the year. Also of historical significance is the Overton-Hillsman House, which was a hospital during and after the battle of Sayler’s Creek. Free tours are available by arrangement.
Sailor's Creek Battlefield State Park has three hiking trails with interpretive signs and information. The Kershaw Trail leads to Sailor’s Creek where the Union Army marched to assault the Confederate soldiers. The Curtis Lee Trail follows where General Curtis Lee retaliated against Union Forces. And the final trail, Pickett Trail, which is only .2 miles, features signs that describe the final fighting of the battle of Sailor’s Creek.
If you would like to bring food with you or cook it outdoors, picnic tables and grills are available near the Overton-Hillsman House and by the visitor’s center. There are no picnic shelters at the Sailor's Creek Battlefield State Park to reserve, and all picnic areas are first-come, first served.
Dogs are welcome at the Sailor's Creek Battlefield State Park, as long as they’re leashed or crated. Be respectful of other guests and park rules; clean up all pet waste and do not allow your pet to become a nuisance. Never leave pets unattended. The Sailor's Creek Battlefield State Park is open dawn to dusk every day.Â
There are no camping or overnight facilities in the Sailor's Creek Battlefield State Park, but there are other places nearby that may offer accommodations. If you’re an American history buff or you’re just looking for an interesting place to take a walk in Virginia, bring your family and furry loved ones to the Sailor's Creek Battlefield State Park.