This text was taken from an email alert sent out on Feb. 5, 2025. Sign up for email alerts →
Dear supporter,
We have a once-in-a-generation opportunity to create an expansive new state park in Loudoun County, a proposed park that will protect a National Historic Landmark and offer easy access to the outdoors for millions of visitors to and residents of Northern Virginia. House Bill 2306, carried by Delegate Alfonso Lopez, authorizes the creation of Oak Hill State Park, which includes the historic home of former President James Monroe.
Encompassing 1,240 acres of fields, forest, rivers, and streams, Oak Hill is one of the largest remaining privately owned tracts of undeveloped land in Loudoun County. It is also where natural beauty and history meet, presenting unprecedented new opportunities for outdoor recreation and exploration.
Over $41 million is already committed from various sources for the acquisition and stewardship of Oak Hill. In other words, the acquisition and start-up costs for Oak Hill State Park are already largely covered (and will be fully covered by the time the state takes ownership). This is a huge bargain for Virginia.
Earlier this week, the bill to create Oak Hill State Park passed through the House and will now be taken up in the Senate. Some senators, however, have expressed reservations about future needs that may arise for maintenance and improvements. These concerns are largely unfounded, as the project has secured funding for a permanent endowment to cover stewardship and operations. We need your support to ensure that these concerns do not inhibit the creation of this publicly accessible green space.
A Historic and Economic Opportunity
Virginia is known for preserving its history, and homes such as Monticello and Montpelier serve as major tourism drivers, and provide local and regional recreational opportunities. Oak Hill is equally significant — establishing Oak Hill as a state park will provide a premier outdoor recreation destination in one of Virginia’s fastest-growing regions. Loudoun County has added over 300,000 in population over the past 2 decades and this new park will add miles of trails and open space experiences within minutes of those residents.
Like Mount Vernon in Fairfax County, which averages over a million visitors a year, and Monticello in Albemarle, with nearly 500,000, the combination of history and access to the outdoors is projected to be a net economic contributor locally and for the Commonwealth.
Why Support HB 2306?
Expand outdoor recreation in Northern Virginia – This 1,240-acre property is in a region with high demand for public green space and outdoor activities and is easily accessible to a large number of Virginia residents
Preserve an important historic site – Oak Hill is the last privately held, founding-era presidential home. Making it a state park would be one of the most significant preservation actions for America’s 250th anniversary.
Open to the public with minimal investment – The property’s well-preserved historic structures and landscape will be ready for visitors with minimal additional work.
Conservation, restoration and agricultural opportunities – creating the state park will provide opportunities to pursue projects that will enhance wildlife habitat, improve water quality, and allow for farming operations to continue.
Minimize costs while maximizing benefits – With $41.35 million already committed from various sources, the acquisition and start-up costs for an Oak Hill State Park are largely covered. Additionally, a $20 million endowment from private sources will be managed in our community and is expected to generate $1 million annually to support park operations.
Take Action: Ask Your State Senator to Support HB 2306
The Virginia General Assembly is considering this legislation, and your voice can make a difference. Contact your state senator today and through the next week and urge them to support HB 2306 to help establish Oak Hill State Park!
Thank you for standing with us to protect Virginia’s history and natural beauty.
Sincerely,
John McCarthy
Senior Advisor & Director of Strategic Partnerships
jmccarthy@pecva.org
