15,000 acres of secondary forest and 37 miles of hiking trails: Prince William Forest Park offers a glimpse of Prince William’s nature-rich side. Most of the park is in Prince William County, Virginia; its trails run along both branches of Quantico Creek. The forest and streams make the park a clear favorite for anyone who enjoys the outdoors. Trail conditions and access may change seasonally, so check the latest notices before your visit.
Forest, Water and Trails
Bristoe Station Battlefield Heritage Park offers a different landscape, with more than 2.7 miles of walking and horseback riding trails. Fields, forests and ponds shape the grounds and provide habitat for a diverse range of wildlife. At Silver Lake Regional Park, the lake takes center stage: it covers 23 acres and is fed by Little Bull Run Stream. The lake is open to shore fishing and non-motorized boats. Hikers and horseback riders use the park’s four miles of multi-use trails.
Locust Shade Park also combines trails with a body of water: its nature trails extend for 3.2 miles, and its eight-acre pond is stocked with trout and channel catfish. The Jean C. Smith Amphitheater hosts family entertainment in late spring and summer. The offerings span different interests, from nature trails to seasonal programs.
Lake Ridge Park brings together more options: the park provides public access to the Occoquan Water Trail and also has a nine-hole, par-3 golf course. The marina offers boat rentals for three seasons of the year. Within the same park, the water trail, golf and boat rentals are distinct activities. Leesylvania State Park, meanwhile, lies along the tidal shores of the historic Potomac River. Julie J. Metz Neabsco Creek Wetlands Preserve is part of Neabsco Regional Park.
History Across Different Eras
The Battles of Manassas can be distinguished by their dates: the First Battle was fought on July 21, 1861, at Manassas National Battlefield Park; the Second Battle took place there in August 1862. On Henry Hill, the Bull Run Monument is among the earliest Civil War monuments in the United States. Two named history trails focus on different periods: the Revolutionary War History Trail connects twelve designated sites in Prince William and Manassas; the Civil War History Trail includes more than 25 designated sites in Greater Prince William.
Rippon Lodge offers a tangible connection to the area’s architectural history and is one of the oldest known houses in Prince William County. It has been standing since 1747. In Triangle, the National Museum of the Marine Corps opened on November 10, 2006; its opening historical galleries included exhibits on World War II, the Korean War and the Vietnam War. The museum offers educational programs for teachers, students, families and Scout groups.
At Brentsville Courthouse Historic Centre, tablets are available for visitors with disabilities to take virtual 360-degree tours. The Barnes House is open by appointment and during special events and programs. A visit therefore requires either an appointment or a suitable event or program date.
Regional Routes and Local Offerings
The East Coast Greenway runs for more than 20 miles through Prince William County, mostly on roads along the Route 1 corridor. Since its route may change as additional sections are developed, check the current route before setting out. The Virginia Railway Express connects the county by rail to Washington, D.C.; check the schedule when planning your trip.
The Steins, Vines, and Moonshine Trail also offers an overview of regional food and drink: it includes breweries, wineries and distilleries throughout Prince William County. Participating businesses may change. The range of discoveries therefore extends from vast forests and waterways to historic sites, cultural attractions and local businesses.
Discover more destinations: Woodbridge, Dumfries, Lake Ridge, Bristow, Dinwiddie County, Danville, Amelia County and Isle Of Wight County.
See the overview of destinations: Virginia.
