The best camping near Harmony Hall

Like a debutante without an invitation to a ball, this historical mansion awaits its big debut. Originally named Battersea, the colonial Georgian has been closed for renovations since 1999. That’s a pity—Harmony Hall has stories to tell.

Located 15 miles south of Washington, D.C., the red brick house was a tobacco plantation. George Washington once supped in the great hall, traveling by barge down the Potomac River from Mount Vernon.

The 65-acre property is steeped in such early American history. The land sits along Broad Creek, an early settlement powered by tobacco and the Atlantic slave trade. Before Harmony Hall's construction, the estate’s main residence was the Want Water house. Built in 1708, the house has fallen into ruins, but several walls remain standing on the property. One of the first canals in America was dug here by hand in 1749. The 100-yard waterway connected the property to Broad Creek to expedite shipping.

Although visitors can’t go inside, Harmony Hall is reportedly impressive. Built in 1769, the 2 1/2-story mansion has classic Georgian mantels, built-in cupboards, and hand-cut black walnut flooring. Locals have referred to it as “the Mount Vernon of the Maryland side of the river.” Much of the home’s history remains unresearched, including the slaves who lived on the estate.

The National Parks Service acquired Harmony Hall in 1966 when the home was still occupied. But the residence has remained empty since 1999, as renovations continue at a snail's pace. However, the National Parks Service remains committed to its grand re-opening.