State Parks and National Parks

Prince William Forest Park covers about 15,000 acres of Piedmont forest and provides sanctuary for plants and wildlife in the rapidly developing region of northern Virginia.

Just 32 miles south of Washington D.C., it is a sanctuary for urban dwellers, too, who come here to bicycle and hike on more than 35 miles of trails, birdwatch, camp, fish, hike and picnic.

A visitor center highlights the history of the area. The Scenic Loop Drive winds through the forest providing opportunities to view wildlife and wildflowers, and it provides access to creeks and waterfalls.

The park administers five Civilian Conservation Corps Cabin Camps built in the mid-1930s. Each camp has cabins, dining halls and lodges. Reminiscent of summer camps, they are used today for large group and single-family cabin rentals.

For those interested in camping, Prince William Forest Park operates the 100-site Oak Ridge Campground, Turkey Run Group Campground, backcountry camping and a full-service Recreational Vehicle facility at Travel Trailer Village located along Highway 234.

Entrance to the park is along Hwy. 619, off I-95, near Triangle, Va., at Exit 150.

The park is open year-round, dawn to dusk.

Photo credits in order: Courtesy of Prince William Forest Park. Courtesy of Prince William Forest Park.