A visit to a National Park is the perfect remedy for spring fever. Did you know that Prince William, VA has two National Parks? Prince William Forest Park and Manassas Battlefield Park. During National Park Week, April 20-28, both parks will be featuring special programs and events. You’re invited to discover stories of history and culture, explore wild spaces and national landmarks, and experience new adventures.

Prince William Forest Park

Prince William Forest Park opened originally in 1936 as Chopawamsic Recreation Area to house children’s relief camps during the Great Depression. Renamed in 1948, Prince William Forest Park has a fascinating history that can be explored at the Visitor Center and throughout the park.

Open year-round, hours vary depending on the season. The 15,000-acre park offers 37 miles of scenic hiking trails and 21 miles of bike-accessible roads and trails for active visitors to enjoy. Prefer to relax in the peaceful solitude of nature? Prince William Forest also offers 18 miles of streams and lakes open for fishing, a diverse animal population for wildlife-watching, and a wide range of open areas and covered pavilions for picnicking.

National Park Week Events at Prince William Forest Park:

Manassas National Battlefield Park

Two major Civil War battles took place on Manassas National Battlefield’s 5,000-acre park. The First Battle of Manassas (Bull Run) was the first major land battle of the American Civil War. The battle began July 21, 1861, and was the first major battle between the Union and Confederate armies. The Second Battle of Manassas (Bull Run) followed a year later in August 1862, when Union and Confederate forces would converge once again on the Manassas National Battlefields. The Confederate army would win both battles bolstering their campaign and resolve against the Union.

Much of the landscape within Manassas National Battlefield Park has been preserved to its Civil War-time character. Visitors can enjoy free access to the park year-round from sunrise to sunset.

Activities include:

• Explore the Visitor Center Museum

• Attend a ranger-led walking tour 

• Visit historic Stone House (open seasonally)

• Take a 20-mile self-guided driving tour

• Hike or horseback ride along trails that visit key areas of the battlefield

• Fish freshwater creeks and pond

• Birdwatch or observe the broad variety of plants and animals

National Park Week Events at Manassas National Battlefield Park: