🏆🏆🏆🏆 Revolutionary War Town — Site of the colonial town of Waynesborough — named for “Mad Anthony” Wayne and serving as Wayne County’s original county seat
Waynesborough State Park preserves the site of Waynesborough — the original county seat of Wayne County, named for General Anthony Wayne (“Mad Anthony Wayne”), one of George Washington’s most aggressive commanders in the Revolutionary War. Wayne earned his nickname not for insanity but for his bold, audacious military tactics. The town was the center of government and commerce for the region in the late 1700s before the county seat moved to Goldsboro. The park preserves archaeological remnants of the colonial-era town.
Visitor Information
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Location | Wayne County, NC |
| Entry Fee | Free |
| Namesake | “Mad Anthony” Wayne — Revolutionary War! |
| History | Original county seat! |
About Waynesborough
Waynesborough State Park in Wayne County preserves the site of the 1787 town of Waynesborough — once briefly the county seat and a significant colonial-era settlement. The park provides day-use recreation along the Neuse River, one of the longest rivers entirely within North Carolina (275 miles). The Neuse River basin supports the largest concentration of people in eastern North Carolina and faces ongoing water quality challenges.
Things to Do
Fishing in the Neuse River, picnicking, hiking, canoeing and kayaking, and learning about the colonial history of Wayne County.
Insider Tips
Revolutionary War: Waynesborough preserves the site of a colonial-era town — named for General Anthony Wayne (“Mad Anthony”), one of Washington’s most aggressive commanders. Pro tip: Eastern NC was a hotbed of Revolutionary War activity — the Battle of Moore’s Creek Bridge (1776) was the South’s first Patriot victory. Goldsboro: The nearby area saw significant Civil War action as Sherman marched through.
Best Time to Visit
Spring/fall: Comfortable weather. Year-round: Site accessible. Summer: Full programming. Winter: Mild.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why was he called “Mad Anthony”?
Anthony Wayne earned the nickname “Mad Anthony” for his aggressive military tactics — he was fearless, impetuous, and effective. His most famous victory was the Battle of Fallen Timbers (1794), which opened the Ohio Valley to American settlement. Wayne was one of Washington’s most trusted generals — his daring assault on Stony Point (1779) was one of the war’s most dramatic victories.
Keep exploring: The closest neighbors are Charles B. Aycock Birthplace (a short drive away) and Cliffs of the Neuse State Park (a short drive away).
⚔️ Visit Waynesborough State Park
“Mad Anthony” Wayne — Revolutionary War hero’s namesake town!
Wildlife & Nature
Waynesborough SP — preserves the site of Waynesborough, an 18th-century town that was the county seat of Wayne County. The site’s Coastal Plain forest and fields support white-tailed deer, wild turkeys, and songbirds.
Nearby Attractions
Goldsboro — adjacent. Cliffs of the Neuse SP — 10 miles southeast. Seymour Johnson AFB — adjacent.
