Upcoming Events

Imagine a 10 square mile area of protected land right here in the Mount Vernon District – a place where bald eagles soar and tundra swans winter, having left the icy Arctic. A place that is home to plant life and wildlife, large and small.

Just over 50 years ago, Elizabeth Hartwell led a successful grassroots effort to preserve this environment on Mason Neck. She succeeded by showing Congress how crucial it is to protect America’s natural resources.

Her legacy lives on – especially through the annual Eagle Festival at Mason Neck State Park. The Festival combines fun, inspiration and encouragement. We offer a wide variety of free activities, demonstrations, and educational programs, in the hope that our guests will gain a renewed appreciation of, and concern for the environment.

Where else can a child see a live hawk or owl just a few feet away and learn about its habitat? Where can old and young alike view active bald eagle nests and learn about the importance of protecting our rivers – their primary food source? Our activities also serve as ‘teaching moments’ of actions families can take towards conservancy.

Throughout the day, there will be non-stop shows in the Wildlife Tent with reptiles, hawks, owls, and hopefully, an eagle! Kids can try a pony ride and the whole family can hop aboard a hayride to a special part of the park to see an eagle nest. And don’t forget your camera. There will be a photo contest for kids with great prizes including the opportunity to attend the park’s Junior Ranger program for free.

Best of all, you’ll be surrounded by nature in a beautiful park that’s home to eagles, ospreys, and great blue herons. Don’t forget to look up once in a while.

Mason Neck State Park
7301 High Point Road
LORTON, VA 22079