Valley Forge was the Continental Army's famous winter encampment in Pennsylvania from 1777 to 1778.
George Washington led the army into Valley Forge on December 19, 1777, after British forces occupied Philadelphia. The site stood about 18 miles northwest of the city and offered high ground, river access, and a position that could help protect the surrounding countryside.
The encampment lasted until June 19, 1778. Soldiers built thousands of log huts and endured shortages of food, clothing, shoes, and medicine. Disease and poor conditions caused many deaths, although the popular image of Valley Forge sometimes exaggerates the idea that the entire army was starving continuously.
The winter also became important for training. Baron Friedrich Wilhelm von Steuben helped introduce systematic drills and procedures, strengthening the army before the campaign of 1778. Valley Forge therefore represents both severe hardship and the Continental Army's growing organization.