Doesn’t a wooded escape sound divine? Oak Ridge Campground offers just that. It is located in Prince William Forest Park. This park lies 35 miles southwest of Washington DC.
Oak Ridge Campground has a fascinating history. During the Great Depression, the land was set aside. In 1935, the Civilian Conservation Corps began restoring the over-farmed acreage. They transformed it into recreational lands for public use. The CCC built trails, dams, and cabins. These enhancements made the park a haven for recreation and relaxation.
Oak Ridge Campground is open from March to November. It welcomes tents, RVs, and trailers. Recreational vehicles have length restrictions. They are capped at 32 feet long and 12 feet high. Trailers and fifth wheels must be 26 feet long or less. Their height must not exceed 12 feet.
Each campsite at Oak Ridge Campground provides essential amenities. A picnic table is provided for outdoor dining. A grill stands ready for barbecues. A lantern post offers illumination. Each site also features a parking spur.
Restrooms with sinks and flush toilets are conveniently located in each loop. Loop B offers the added benefit of showers. Comfort stations in loops A and C close in early November for winterizing. Loop B’s comfort station remains open until the campground closes in early December.
Keep in mind these important details when visiting Oak Ridge Campground. A maximum of two vehicles are allowed per site. They must fit within the designated space. Parking on the road edge is prohibited. Each site can accommodate a maximum of three tents and six people.
All vehicles entering Prince William Forest Park must pay an entrance fee. This fee is separate from campsite reservations. However, those with a valid National Park Service pass are exempt.
Firewood availability varies within the campground. If bringing your own, ensure it is USDA certified bug-free. Overflow parking is available at the campground entrance. It is also available between loops B and C.
Oak Ridge Campground does not permit organized group camping. However, Turkey Run Ridge Group Campground offers this option. It is important to note that hookups are unavailable at Oak Ridge. Full hookups can be found at Prince William Forest RV Campground. It is located three miles north on Route 234 off exit 152.
The surrounding Prince William Forest Park is a treasure trove of natural beauty. It preserves approximately 15000 acres of Piedmont forest. This area represents one of the largest undeveloped land parcels nearby. It features geological outcroppings, winding creeks, and man-made lakes.
The park teems with wildlife. Forty-six mammal species call it home. Twenty-two species of amphibians thrive here. Twenty-five species of reptiles inhabit the park. Over 129 bird species can be spotted. Twenty-six species of fish swim in its waters. The park also hosts an unknown number of invertebrates. More than 900 plant species flourish within Prince William Forest Park.
Hikers can explore 37 miles of foot trails. The South Valley, Oak Ridge, and Farms to Forest Trails begin near the campground entrance. Bicyclists can enjoy 21 miles of paved roads. This includes the 12-mile Scenic Drive. Mountain biking is available on 10 miles of gravel fire roads. Orienteering enthusiasts will appreciate the 30 courses available. Fishing is permitted in approximately 18 miles of streams and two small lakes.
Whether you seek relaxation or adventure, Oak Ridge Campground provides an unforgettable escape.