Know Before You Go

Entrance fees are required to enter Prince William Forest Park

NPS Photo

Entrance Fees and Passes

Entrance fees and valid 'America the Beautiful' passes or Prince William Forest Park annual passes are required to enter the park. Fees are required when entering the park by car, foot, bicycle, or motorcycle. Entrance fees are not included in campground rental fees and must be paid upon entry. They can be paid at the entrance station when entering the park, at the visitor center when the entrance station is closed, or online at recreation.gov.

Park Closures and Limitations

Visitors are encouraged to review the park safety alerts prior to their visit. Most areas and trails are open. The park visitor center is closed on Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday. Parking Lot E is currently closed for construction to expand the parking area and add a vault toilet. Be alert for construction vehicles in the park and follow all safety guidelines.

Park brochures and hiking trail maps are available at the visitor center and online. Park programs are offered on the weekends from Memorial Day to Labor Day at various locations around Prince William Forest Park.

In the event of an emergency, call 911. For assistance from law enforcement and emergency services staff, please call the National Park Service's National Capital Region Communication Center at [phone].

 

Campsite in Oak Ridge Campground

NPS Photo/Melissa Weih

Safety and Weather

Report any safety concerns to park law enforcement by calling National Park Service's National Capital Region Communication Center at [phone]. In the event of an emergency, call 911.

In the event of inclement weather, it is advised that visitors check the alerts page for any additional closures and safety advisories.

Plan to dress for the weather and know your limits when going on a hike. Drink plenty of water as it is important to stay hydrated. Please note that there is limited indoor shelter when the visitor center is closed.

Do not approach, feed, or harass wildlife. Wild animals will defend themselves if they feel threatened. Always maintain a safe distance from any animals that you see in the park.

For the safety of pets, visitors, and wildlife, all pets must be on a leash not exceeding six (6) feet at all times. Pets are not permited to walk off leash while in the park.

Frequently Asked Questions

Learn more about the park by finding the answers to frequently asked questions about Prince William Forest Park.