648 Rte 32, Stillwater, NY 12170
Phone: 518-664-9821 or 518-664-9822
Fax: 518-664-3349
Open All Year
Overview. The Battles of Saratoga, fought in the autumn of 1777, proved to be a turning point for the American forces in the Revolutionary War. British forces invaded from Canada, intent on taking control of major northern waterways. After initial success at Lake Champlain and in the Hudson Valley, British troops, under the command of General John Burgoyne, found their progress impeded by difficult terrain. With the supporting troops of British General Barry St. Leger stuck in the Mohawk Valley and unable to provide aid, Burgoyne's men had no choice but to face the Americans, under the command of General Horatio Gates, alone. Battles on both September 19 and October 7 resulted in the Americans repelling the British invasion, and Burgoyne was forced to surrender on October 17, 1777. In addition to boosting American morale and reinforcing the drive for independence, this pivotal victory was instrumental in persuading the French to ally themselves with the American cause. What to see and do. Begin your visit at the Battlefield Visitor Center where exhibits and a short film will give you an overview of the events that took place here. Purchase passes for the nine-mile, self-guided auto tour, which features ten interpretive wayside exhibits. The restored and refurbished one-room Neilson farmhouse, the only remaining building on site dating from the time of the battles, is usually staffed by a ranger and volunteers. During 1777, this house served as headquarters for American officers. Other park attractions include the Schuyler House and the Saratoga Battle Monument, which commemorates the British surrender nine miles north of the battlefield. The Visitor Center is open from 9 AM to 5 PM every day except Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year's Day. The grounds and hiking trails are open year-round. Special activities include living history presentations offered during the summer season. The park is located 30 miles north of Albany on US 4.
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