The Booker T. Washington National Monument marks the birthplace of civil rights leader Booker Taliaferro Washington in Franklin County, Virginia. Born into slavery in 1856, Washington went on to become an influential voice in business, politics, and African American education in the United States. At the national monument, visitors can see the remains of the plantation as well as farm buildings that have been reconstructed to look as they did when Washington was a child. Near the monument in Greater Roanoke, you'll find a wealth of historic and outdoor activities to delight historians, adventure-seekers, and everyone in between.
RV Parks & Campgrounds Near Booker T. Washington National Monument
With an RV, you can immerse yourself in Virginia's natural beauty while enjoying the comforts of home at the Booker T. Washington National Monument. If you don't own an RV, get a rental through RVshare and enjoy all the perks without the long-term commitment.
RV Rentals Near Booker T. Washington National Monument
Things To Do Near Booker T. Washington National Monument
Booker T. Washington National Monument is a small site that's rich in history. When you visit, leave plenty of time to learn about Washington and the history of the other enslaved people who lived on the plantation. These exhibits offer valuable context as you hike around the grounds and check out the historic buildings that still stand. If you're camping nearby, there's plenty to do in the hills and forests that surround Smith Mountain Lake.
Hiking Trails
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Plantation Trail
If you have a limited amount of time, head to the Plantation Trail after you stop in the visitor center. This short, easy trail takes you past the reconstructed buildings on the property. Each building is open, so you can walk through and get a sense of what life was like for the plantation owners and enslaved people who lived and worked on the land.
Location
Visitor Center 12130 Booker T Washington Hwy, Hardy, VA 24101
Length
0.25 Miles
Intensity
Easy
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Jack-O-Lantern Branch Heritage Trail
Enjoy a relaxing walk along the Jack-O-Lantern Branch Heritage Trail. It runs through the former plantation fields and through the forests, giving you a look at a landscape that hasn't changed much since Booker T. Washington was born. Make sure to stop in the visitor center to pick up a guide to the trail.
Location
Visitor Center 12130 Booker T Washington Hwy, Hardy, VA 24101
Length
1.5 Miles
Intensity
Easy
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Tinker Creek Greenway
Enjoy the Virginia scenery on the Tinker Creek Greenway, a well-maintained trail that sits about 18 miles west of Booker T. Washington National Monument. It starts at the Hollins Trailhead and connects to some other trails in the area; one great option is the Carvins Cove Natural Reserve.
Location
Roanoke, VA 24013
Length
13.5 Miles
Intensity
Easy
Sightseeing
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Booker T. Washington National Monument Farm
The Booker T. Washington National Monument Farm looks much as it would have in the mid-1800s — animals including chickens, sheep, horses, and pigs live there, giving you a visceral sense of the sights and sounds of a working farm. While you're there, learn more about how animals played a role in the tobacco farm.
Location
Visitor Center 12130 Booker T Washington Hwy, Hardy, VA 24101
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Booker T. Washington National Monument Garden
When Booker T. Washington was a child, most of the fresh fruits and vegetables for the plantation came from a garden on the property. Today, you can visit the garden, which has been recreated to show historically accurate plants and planting techniques.
Location
Visitor Center 12130 Booker T Washington Hwy, Hardy, VA 24101
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Holland-Duncan House
Just 1.5 miles east of the Booker T. Washington National Monument, the Holland-Duncan House offers another glimpse at life in the 1800s. Built in 1830, it showcases popular building techniques and styles of the time — Flemish-bond bricks, molded cornices, and gauged jack window arches. The original owner was Asa Holland, who owned a plantation in the area. The house is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and the Virginia Landmarks Register.
Location
13508 Booker T Washington Hwy, Moneta, VA 24121
Museums
Nearby Shops and Restaurants
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Benny Adelina's
Benny Adelina's is a popular pizza joint located just one mile from the monument. Pick up a slice to enjoy during a busy day, or pick up a whole pizza — each one is 28 inches, so it's perfect for a group.
Location
84 Westlake Rd #105, Hardy, VA 24101
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El Toreno Mexican Bar & Grill
Whether you're in the mood for a taco salad or a chimichanga, El Toreno's massive menu has something to fill your craving. You'll also find a kids menu and a small selection of vegetarian options to suit everyone in the family.
Location
40 Village Springs Dr. #14, Hardy, VA 24101
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Farmhouse Catering And Meals To Go
Looking for a to-go meal to bring back to your RV or to enjoy outdoors? Farmhouse Catering And Meals To Go is the perfect spot. It specializes in fresh ingredients and comfort-food dishes, so you can get everything from meatloaf to colorful salads.
Location
13300 Booker T Washington Hwy, Moneta, VA 24121
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Cottage Gate
Cottage Gate carries an eclectic collection of home decor and gifts. Many of the items are lake-themed in celebration of nearby Smith Mountain Lake.
Location
84 Westlake Rd # 113, Hardy, VA 24101
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Mama Ann's Gifts & Goodies
With its Old World interior and fantastic selection, Mama Ann's Gifts & Goodies is the perfect spot to pick up a treat for yourself or a souvenir. Make sure to check out the locally made jams, jellies, and syrup.
Location
213 Scruggs Rd, Moneta, VA 24121
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Amanda's
Drive 5 minutes east of Booker T. Washington National Monument to find Amanda's, a charming antique store with plenty of personality. The shop also carries seasonal wreaths for your home or RV.
Location
14116 Booker T Washington Hwy, Moneta, VA 24121
How To Get To Booker T. Washington National Monument
Booker T. Washington National Monument sits just south of Booker T. Washington Highway (VA-122) in Hardy, VA. From Roanoke, you can take VA-116 south to Burnt Chimney and drive east on VA-122 until you reach the park entrance.
Address
12130 Booker T. Washington Highway, Hardy, VA 24101
Fee: Entry Fee (Per Person)
There is no entry fee.
Rich in history and natural beauty, the Booker T. Washington National Monument is a place to reflect on American history. After you learn about the remarkable life of Washington, take time to explore the plantation and imagine what life was like for the enslaved people who worked the field in the 19th century. To fully explore the area and enjoy the surrounding wilderness, consider bringing an RV; it gives you the freedom to upgrade your camping trip and sleep in comfort, no matter the season.