About Us
The Park
5,071 acres across Prince William and Fairfax counties, about 25 miles west of Washington, D.C. — designated a national battlefield park on May 10, 1940, by Secretary of the Interior Harold L. Ickes.
First Battle of Manassas — July 21, 1861
The first major land battle of the Civil War drew civilian spectators, including congressmen, who traveled from Washington with picnic baskets — a striking reflection of just how romanticized expectations of the war still were at that early stage.
Second Battle of Bull Run — August 28-30, 1862
A decisive Confederate victory that marked the peak of Southern military power in the East. It set the stage for Robert E. Lee's Northern Virginia Campaign, shifting the war's strategic focus toward Washington, D.C. — and helped catalyze the Emancipation Proclamation that followed.
A Battlefield With Few Monuments
Because Manassas was designated relatively late compared to many other Civil War sites, it holds relatively few commemorative monuments — offering visitors a distinctive, less-mediated perspective on how this ground shaped American history.
Beyond the Battle
The park protects diverse ecosystems — grasslands, forests, and wetlands — alongside its historic structures and archaeological resources. Over 40 miles of trails welcome hikers and horseback riders, and the park hosts guided tours, educational programs, and special events for history enthusiasts, nature lovers, and casual visitors alike.
Plan Your Visit
Henry Hill Visitor Center
6511 Sudley Rd, Manassas, VA 20109
Bookstore, exhibits, films, and tour departures.
Trust Administrative Office
12521 Lee Highway, Manassas, VA 20109
(703) 375-9109