A designated National Natural Landmark, Caledon provides visitors the unique opportunity of viewing bald eagles in their natural habitat. Caledon and the surrounding areas are the summer home for one of the largest concentrations of bald eagles on the East Coast. As many as 60 eagles have been spotted on the bluffs overlooking the Potomac River in King George County. Preservation of the national bird's habitat is the primary focus of the natural area. Visitors can enjoy the beauty of Caledon by hiking and picnicking in a mature forest. Hiking trails in the eagle area are closed April through September to allow young birds undisturbed time to perfect their hunting and fishing skills. Limited tours of the eagle area are offered, however, mid-June through August by reservation only. Park guests can learn more about the natural history of Caledon and the American bald eagle by touring the visitor center.

Caledon Natural Area is located on what was the early colonial seat of the Alexander family. John and Philip Alexander founded the city of Alexandria and established Caledon Plantation in 1659. William A. Smoot inherited the property from the Alexander family in the mid 1800s. In 1974, Caledon was donated to the Commonwealth by Mrs. Ann Hopewell Smoot in memory of her late husband, Lewis E. Smoot, who passed away in 1962. After the importance of Caledon to the summering eagle population was noted in 1981, Governor Charles S. Robb appointed the Caledon Task Force to develop the area's management plan. The task force was successful in creating a no-boating zone off the shores of the Potomac River at Caledon. Continued eagle research, development of nature trails and limiting public access in eagle-sensitive areas and buffer zones were among the other recommendations of the plan.

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