Colonial Heights: Experience History and Nature

Colonial Heights brings together military history, historic houses, collections, and nature. Along the Appomattox River, the earthworks of Fort Clifton recall the Civil War defensive line; other sites connect visitors with events from 1781 or archaeological finds from prehistoric times. There are also exhibits and trails by the water. When planning, you can weigh up historic sites, technology, and outdoor activities.

History from Prehistory to the Civil War

Fort Clifton was a Confederate fortification on the Appomattox River. In 1864 and 1865, the fort was an important link in the defensive line protecting Richmond and Petersburg. Three battery earthworks still stand on the heights above the river. Their number and location offer specific points of reference for understanding the fort as part of this defensive line. The Fort Clifton Festival is held annually on Mother’s Day weekend; exact dates vary from year to year. The festival includes food vendors, whose offerings may also vary.

The Old Brick House is believed to be the oldest brick house in the region and one of the oldest houses in Virginia. Interior tours are free but require an appointment in advance. Violet Bank has another documented connection to the Civil War era: General Robert E. Lee used the house as his headquarters from June 8 to November 1, 1864. The Violet Bank Museum and its grounds have been temporarily closed to the public since June 6, 2026, for exterior renovation and preservation work. Check the official reopening announcement before visiting.

From Oak Hill, General Lafayette fired on Petersburg, which was held by British troops, in May 1781. Oak Hill is privately owned and can be viewed from outside at 151 Carroll Ave. Swift Creek Mill offers another historic connection: it is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and registered as a Virginia Historic Landmark. The mill there was likely the oldest gristmill in America. Conjurer’s Field reaches further back: artifacts from the prehistoric Middle Woodland and Late Woodland periods were recovered at the archaeological site.

Collections, Parks, and Trails

The Keystone Truck & Tractor Museum covers 130,000 square feet. Its exhibits include restored antique farm tractors, agricultural equipment, antique trucks, classic cars, and antique radios. The range of subjects spans agricultural machinery, vehicles, and radio equipment. The museum is in the center of Colonial Heights and is easily accessible from Interstate 95.

The parks offer different options for nature and trails. Lakeview Park is on Swift Creek Lake. The Colonial Heights Appomattox River Trail System offers hiking and biking trails, fishing areas, a small boat ramp at Roslyn Landing Park, and a canoe launch area. Roslyn Landing Park also has a fishing pier. Appomatuck Park offers a trailhead and designated fishing areas. Park amenities may change, so check current information before visiting.

Another nature attraction is the Cucumber Tree. It is believed to have been planted in 1718 and is considered one of the largest known specimens of Magnolia acuminata east of the Blue Ridge Mountains.

Events and Sports History

Shepherd Stadium was built in the 1940s and has hosted professional games and championship events. Cosmic Baseball is a different kind of experience, launched in 2024 as a game and event held in the dark. It uses UV-reactive jerseys, bats, and bases under stadium-wide blacklight illumination. Check Shepherd Stadium’s current schedule for possible dates. This helps distinguish the historically significant sites from the contemporary event concept as different facets of the local offerings.

Discover more destinations: Colonial Heights, Manassas, Emporia, Dinwiddie County, Russell, York County, Montgomery, Bath.

For the broader travel overview: Virginia.