The Eastern Front Tour Road south of Route 36 is closed to all vehicles due to a sinkhole near Harrison Creek (stop 4). Walkers and bicyclist are allowed to use the road. Use caution in the Harrison Creek area.
Expert Verdict & Insider Tips
As a key part of the National Park Service in Virginia, Petersburg National Battlefield offers a rich combination of natural wonders and cultural history. It is a fantastic destination for families, hikers, and photographers looking to capture the authentic spirit of the region.
About Petersburg National Battlefield
Petersburg National Battlefield is a national battlefield located in Virginia. Winters are usually cool with temperatures averaging in the 40s. Spring and fall are mild. Summer can bring very hot and humid weather.
The Eastern Front (Main) Visitor Center is located approximately 2.5 miles east of Rt. 95 off of Route 36 in Petersburg. If travelling north on Rt. 95, take exit 50D and follow signs to Wythe Street. Once on Wythe Street, travel 2.5 miles east to entrance of Battlefield. If travelling south on Rt. 95, take Exit 52 (Wythe Street). Again, travel about 2.5 miles to entrance.
💰 Entrance Fees & Passes
Entry to Petersburg is completely free. There are no general entrance fees or vehicle passes required to access this park unit.
🥾 Things to Do
Petersburg National Battlefield offers visitors a diverse selection of outdoor experiences. You can participate in a wide array of activities, most notably Auto and ATV, Scenic Driving, Biking, Mountain Biking, and 13 other recreational activities, depending on the season and weather conditions. Path options exist for both casual strollers and expert backcountry adventurers.
📦 Recommended Gear & Packing Checklist
Custom items selected for activities at Petersburg
📋 Visitor Planning Tips for Petersburg
- →Beat the Crowds: Arrive at the main gates or trailheads of Petersburg before 8:00 AM. Parking spaces at popular locations fill up extremely fast, especially during warm peak season weekends.
- →Monitor Active Alerts: There are currently 1 active alerts for Petersburg. Keep an eye on the alert notifications at the top of this guide for crucial information regarding closures or safety issues.
- →Leave No Trace: Help protect the delicate ecosystems of Petersburg. Stay on marked trails, pack out all of your waste, and keep a respectful distance from wildlife.
Two hundred ninety-two days, eight offensives, over 70,000 casualties, U. S. Colored Troops, and the decline of Gen. Lee's Army of Northern Virginia all describe the Siege of Petersburg. U.S. forces cut off supplies to both Petersburg and the Confederate capital, Richmond. Today, the park preserves the sites of this pivotal campaign.
Seasonal Visitor Guides
Frequently Asked Questions about Petersburg
About the Author
James R. Mitchell
Founder & Lead Writer — National Park Data
James has visited all 63 designated US national parks and has been writing about outdoor travel for over 12 years. He spent 8 years as a wilderness guide in the Rocky Mountains before founding National Park Data to help visitors plan better, safer, and more enjoyable park trips.
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