Monica Adams

Clifton, VA Area Information

Clifton is a town in Fairfax County, Virginia. The population was approximately 185 at the 2000 census. Clifton is just 25 miles away from Washington, D.C., providing residents with genuine small town living with big city amenities close by. Nicknamed the "Brigadoon of Virginia, Clifton was declared a national historic district by the U.S. Department of Interior in 1984.

History

Originally known as Devereux Station, Clifton was born as a direct result of the Civil War. In 1861, the Union army incorporated the O&A Railroad into their military system. Oftentimes troops marched through town, fighting small battles and preparing to set up camp along the creek. After the Civil War ended, Devereux Station kept growing. In 1868, a commuter station was built and the name changed to Clifton Station when Harrison G. Otis, accredited as the original founder of Clifton, bought the land. Harrison was joined by his brother J. Sanford Otis and together they also founded the Clifton Presbyterian Church, which is still in existence today. In 1869 a Post Office was established and the town started growing with stores, schools and a community feeling. On March 10, 1902 Clifton Station was established as a town by Charter from the General Assembly. The station no longer exists today, but the historic town of Clifton is still standing along what used to be the O&A Railroad and is now a part of the Norfolk Southern Railway.

Parks and Recreation

Clifton Parks are available for use by municipal, school, commercial and private organizations or groups or individuals. The Clifton Parks property is primarily parks intended for recreation purposes.

Bull Run Regional Park

Bull Run’s spacious fields can accommodate large groups for picnics, camping or special events. Bull Run’s scenic woodland and trails offer miles of hiking and solitude. In springtime, acres of bluebells and other wildflowers bloom beside a picturesque, meandering stream. A large outdoor pool is open Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day. Miniature and disc golf are open April through October. A public shooting center, which includes sporting clays, skeet, trap, wobble trap and indoor archery, is open year-round. Bull Run also features miniature golf, athletic fields, a playground and much more.

Chapel Road Park

Chapel Road Park is a small park on Chapel Road just outside of Clifton. Remnants of the Orange and Alexandria Railroad bridge abutments can be seen as well as some of the rail bed and two additional bridge sites. Parking is limited.

Attractions

Clifton is home to great attractions that are sure to please your family and friends. Come play a round at Twin Lakes Golf Course or visit the Webb Sanctuary for some relaxing and learning. See below for further details.

Twin Lakes Golf Course

Twin Lakes is the premier 36-hole public facility in Northern Virginia. The two courses offer two different golfing experiences making Twin Lakes the perfect choice for any golfer.

Webb Sanctuary

The Webb Sanctuary’s 20 acres are on the edge of Clifton. The Sanctuary features a small stream flowing by a meadow, native orchids, several amphibian species and a variety of birds. A self-guided trail winds through the property.