Explore Mason Neck State Park in Lorton, VA

A Natural Peninsula Near Washington, D.C.

Located at 7301 High Point Road, Lorton, VA 22079, Mason Neck State Park sits on a scenic peninsula surrounded by Pohick Bay, Belmont Bay, and the Potomac River. Covering nearly 1,856 acres of wetlands, forests, and shoreline, the park is known for its peaceful trails, wildlife, and water access.

A Legacy of Conservation and History

Originally home to Native American Dogue peoples and later part of George Mason’s plantation land, Mason Neck became threatened by development in the mid-20th century. Thanks to conservation efforts led by Elizabeth Hartwell and others, the Northern Virginia Regional Park Authority acquired the land in the late 1960s. The park officially opened in 1985, protecting bald eagle habitat and preserving regional history.

What to See & Do

  • Hiking & Biking Trails
    • Over 6 miles of unpaved trails and 3 miles of paved paths.
    • Notable routes include Bay View Trail, Eagle Spur Trail, and Wilson Spring Trail—great for birdwatching and eagle spotting.
  • Water Adventures
    • Canoes, kayaks, and paddleboards are rentable at the Visitor Center during open seasons.
    • Fishing is allowed in Belmont Bay (license required), and the park features a car-top boat launch.
  • Picnic Areas & Playground
    • Spacious group picnic pavilions and open fields outside the Visitor Center.
    • There’s also a playground for younger visitors.
  • Visitor Center & Exhibits
    • The center offers wildlife exhibits, maps, a gift shop, and ranger-led programs. Wheelchair-accessible equipment is available by reservation.
  • Wildlife Watching
    • The park is home to bald eagles, ospreys, great blue herons, deer, beavers, and more—especially active at dawn and dusk.

Supported by Conservation Partners

Mason Neck State Park works in partnership with the Elizabeth Hartwell Mason Neck National Wildlife Refuge, NOVA Parks, Fairfax County, and the Commonwealth of Virginia. Together, they protect over 6,000 acres of natural lands with shared resources and public programs.

Visit their website to learn more.

Plan Your Visit

  • Hours: Park grounds open 8 AM to dusk; Visitor Center is open weekdays 9 AM–4:30 PM, weekends until 7 PM.
  • Fees: Vehicle parking fee applies; trail access and use of the park grounds are included.
  • Seasonal Programs: Ranger-led canoe trips, bird-watch walks, photography classes, Eagle Festival, and Junior Ranger camps.

Whenever you’re in Lorton, be sure to grab a bite at the Brickmakers Cafe.

Protect Your Home with Fireplace Installation

Just as Mason Neck State Park is built to last, your home’s fireplace needs reliable care. Sixpenny Chimney Sweeps specializes in fireplace installation and maintenance in Lorton and Woodbridge. From chimney liners to custom hearths, our expert team ensures safety, quality, and compliance with modern building standards.

Schedule your expert fireplace installation today! Visit us online at https://www.sixpennychimney.com/ to learn more.

Driving Directions: Mason Neck State Park → Sixpenny Chimney Sweeps

Start: 7301 High Point Road, Lorton, VA 22079
End: 13000 Harbor Center Dr Suite 200, Woodbridge, VA 22192

  1. Exit onto High Point Road heading north.
  2. Turn left onto Gunston Road (VA-242 West).
  3. Merge onto I-95 South via ramp toward Richmond.
  4. Take exit 161B for VA-234 North/Prince William Parkway.
  5. Turn right onto Harbor Center Drive.
  6. Sixpenny Chimney Sweeps will be on your right in Suite 200.

Approximate drive time: 25–30 minutes, depending on traffic.

Explore the natural beauty and rich wildlife at Mason Neck State Park—and enhance your home’s warmth and efficiency with expert fireplace installation from Sixpenny Chimney Sweeps.

 

Sixpenny Chimney Sweeps
13000 Harbor Center Dr Suite 200, Woodbridge, VA 22192
(703) 491-8697