Prince William Forest Park is located in the southern part of Prince William County, Virginia, and covers more than 15,000 acres. It is the largest protected area of land in the county. The park is home to a variety of plant and animal life, as well as a number of historic and cultural resources. It offers a variety of activities including hiking, camping, picnicking, fishing, and canoeing. There are also a number of educational programs and events available for visitors to enjoy.
History
It was created in 1940 as a result of the efforts of President Franklin D. Roosevelt and his New Deal agencies. The park was originally known as Chopawamsic Recreational Demonstration Area, and was one of several areas around the country that were set aside for recreation and conservation.
The park was renamed in 1948 to honor Prince William County, Virginia, which had donated the land for the park. It was established for the purpose of providing recreational opportunities for the residents of Washington, D.C. and the surrounding area.
