Battlefield Information
Discover the History and Plan Your Visit
The Battle of Saratoga
The Turning Point of the American Revolution
In the autumn of 1777, the fate of the American Revolution hung in the balance. British General John Burgoyne led his army south from Canada, intending to split the colonies and crush the rebellion. What followed would become one of the most consequential battles in world history.
The Surrender of General Burgoyne by John Trumbull
Timeline of Events
September 19, 1777
First Battle of Saratoga (Freeman's Farm) - American forces under General Horatio Gates and Benedict Arnold clash with Burgoyne's advancing army. Though tactically inconclusive, the battle halts the British advance.
October 7, 1777
Second Battle of Saratoga (Bemis Heights) - In a desperate attempt to break through American lines, Burgoyne attacks again. The Americans, led by Benedict Arnold's brilliant cavalry charge, decisively defeat the British.
October 17, 1777
Surrender of Burgoyne - Surrounded and outnumbered, General Burgoyne surrenders his entire army of nearly 6,000 men. This stunning American victory convinces France to enter the war as an American ally.
Historical Significance
The American victory at Saratoga proved to be the turning point of the Revolutionary War. The surrender of a British army demonstrated to the world that American independence was achievable. Most importantly, it convinced France to formally recognize American independence and enter the war as an ally, providing crucial military and financial support that would ultimately secure American victory.
Visitor Information
Location:
648 Route 32
Stillwater, NY 12170
Hours:
National Park Service Calendar
Admission:
Free to the public
Guided Tours:
National Park Service Events
What to See
- Visitor Center & Museum
- Freeman Farm Overlook
- Bemis Heights
- Neilson Farm
- Boot Monument
- British Fortifications
- Tour Road (9.5 miles)
Getting Here
The battlefield is located approximately 30 miles north of Albany, NY, off Route 4 and Route 32.
From Albany: Take I-87 North to Exit 12, then Route 67 East to Route 4 North.