Turkey Run Ridge Group
4.7552 reviewsVISITOR CENTER, 18170 PARK ENTRANCE ROAD, Triangle, VA, 22172, USA
Turkey Run Ridge Group
$40.00 - $80.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$0.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$80.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Group picnic areas are $40 per day. Group standard nonelectric sites range from $65 to $80 per night depending on capacity (25-person or 40-person sites). Additional charges may apply for reservation fees and vehicle parking ($20 per vehicle for seven days).
About this campground
Nestled among towering trees, Turkey Run Ridge Group Campground brings people together in nature's embrace. This woodland retreat welcomes organized groups from 7 to 40 adventurers across nine thoughtfully spaced sites, making it the perfect basecamp for scout troops discovering the wilderness, school groups learning beyond classroom walls, or families reuniting under starlit skies. Each site comes equipped with sturdy picnic tables for communal meals, fire grills for evening storytelling sessions, and lantern posts that cast a warm glow as darkness falls. Modern restrooms with sinks and flush toilets ensure comfort without compromising the authentic outdoor experience. Since parking spaces are at a premium in this secluded forest setting, carpooling transforms the journey into part of the adventure, allowing groups to bond before even setting up camp.
Turkey Run Ridge Group Campground exclusively offers tent camping accommodations suitable for groups ranging from seven to 40 people. No RVs or primitive camping are permitted.
Historical SignificanceThe land beneath your tent holds stories of American resilience and conservation. Born from the hardships of the Great Depression, Prince William Forest Park stands as a testament to the vision and sweat of the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC). These young men, seeking work and purpose during America's darkest economic hour, transformed eroded farmland into the thriving forest you see today. Their calloused hands built the trails your feet now follow, constructed the dams that created peaceful lakes for reflection, and raised the historic cabins that still dot the landscape. Every stone wall, every carefully graded path whispers their legacy – a reminder that from struggle can grow something beautiful and enduring.
Weather and SeasonsEach season paints Turkey Run Ridge in dramatically different hues, creating a year-round canvas of natural beauty. Winter brings crisp, dry air punctuated by occasional snowfall that transforms the forest into a quiet wonderland. As spring awakens the woodland, mild temperatures coax wildflowers from the forest floor while migrating birds fill the canopy with song. Summer wraps the campground in warmth and humidity, with dense shade providing natural air conditioning beneath the leafy canopy. But autumn steals the show, when the forest erupts in a symphony of reds, oranges, and golds that draws photographers and nature lovers from miles around. Seasoned campers know that spring and fall offer the sweet spot – comfortable temperatures by day, cool sleeping weather by night, and nature's most spectacular displays.
ElevationThe campground's gentle topography creates an accessible wilderness experience, with subtle elevation changes that add interest without challenging mobility.
Natural Features and SceneryTurkey Run Ridge immerses you in the heart of the Piedmont forest ecosystem, where nature orchestrates a constantly changing performance. Winding creeks babble their ancient songs through valleys carved over millennia, while rolling hills create intimate hollows and scenic vistas. This biological treasure chest harbors over 700 plant species – from delicate spring ephemerals to mighty oaks – creating a botanical wonderland that shifts with each passing week. More than 100 bird species call this forest home or pass through on epic migrations, filling dawn and dusk with their chorus. Whether you're watching fireflies dance on summer evenings, tracking deer prints in fresh snow, or marveling at spring's wildflower parade, the campground offers front-row seats to nature's most captivating shows.
Geological RegionTurkey Run Ridge sits within Prince William Forest Park, home to the largest protected Piedmont forest ecosystem in the entire National Park System – a distinction that speaks to its ecological importance. This geological wonderland showcases the Piedmont's characteristic features: ancient rock outcroppings that tell stories millions of years in the making, creeks that meander like silver ribbons through the landscape, and gentle rolling hills that create a topography both beautiful and accessible. Man-made lakes, crafted during the park's CCC era, now blend seamlessly with the natural landscape, providing mirror-like surfaces that reflect the surrounding forest and sky. This unique combination of geological features creates diverse habitats and microclimates, making every hike an opportunity for discovery.
Campsite details
AccessibilityGroups with disabilities can benefit from accessible restrooms and trails nearby. One reviewer stated, "The Rangers were very professional, friendly, and helpful."
Sites SizeCampsites range in size to accommodate groups of 25 to 40 people.
Sites PrivacyCampsites are separated enough by trees to offer a sense of privacy, as noted by one user: "The camp areas are separated enough by trees to feel private for each group."
Total Campsites9 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSite I is praised for accommodating large scout groups; Site D has convenient access to trails; Site H is near clean, heated restrooms.
Best CampsitesMany users favor sites D, H, and I for their proximity to trails and ample space for large groups.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in at Turkey Run Ridge Group Campground begins mid-morning.
Check-out
Check-out typically occurs before noon.
Stay Limit
Maximum consecutive stay is 14 nights.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Sites accommodate 7-40 guests depending on capacity.
Groups
The campground includes six sites for up to 25 campers and three sites for up to 40 campers.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground features nine wooded sites separated by trees for privacy. An amphitheater provides bench seating for group activities.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen year-round. Peak season rates apply from January 1 to December 31.
Reservation PlatformsAvailable through Recreation.gov online or app.
Walk-in AvailabilityNo walk-up or first-come-first-served sites; reservations are required.
Cancellation PolicyReservations can be canceled anytime before arrival. A $10 cancellation fee applies, along with forfeiting the first night's use fee for late cancellations within 14 days of check-in for group sites.
Accomodation available
GroupGroup campsites are offered for larger parties such as families, schools, or organizations. These sites provide space and facilities to accommodate multiple people camping together.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Firewood available
Flush toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Turkey Run Ridge Group Campground offers a variety of recreational activities, including hiking, biking, orienteering, fishing, and wildlife viewing. The park is celebrated for its 37 miles of hiking trails and 30 orienteering courses. "Great hiking trails close by," one reviewer said, while another praised the clean and safe trails.
Hiking
The park features 37 miles of diverse trails. User reviews highlight trail cleanliness and proximity, with one noting, "Great hiking trails close by."Fishing
Fishing is permitted in Quantico Creek and two small lakes, supporting species like bluegill, largemouth bass, and channel catfish.Biking
Biking is popular due to 21 miles of paved roads and 10 miles of gravel fire roads. "The 12-mile Scenic Drive offers low traffic and is perfect for biking," according to official information.Wildlife viewing
The park hosts 38 species of mammals, 24 species of amphibians, and over 100 bird species, as well as a variety of reptiles and fish, offering great opportunities for wildlife observation.Cultural and Educational Programs
Orienteering courses, developed in 1972, provide both educational and recreational opportunities. The amphitheater is used for group activities.Winter Activities
Winter camping is popular, as indicated by user reviews mentioning successful winter trips.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Campfires are permitted within designated fire rings only. Firewood must be USDA-certified.
- Quiet hours are enforced from 10 PM nightly.
Hazards
General hazardsCampground visitors should beware of tree-killing pests and avoid moving firewood across regions. Wildlife encounters are possible in this natural environment.
Active alertsNo active alerts or closures reported.
Weather forecast
79
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 30%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 5.5 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Clear sky
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Nearest emergency services are located in Quantico, VA (approximately 5 miles away), and include hospitals and police stations.
Good to know
Peak season datesJanuary 1 - December 31
Trash and recyclingTrash dumpsters are conveniently located near the campsites, making waste disposal easy, according to reviews.
Proximity to water featuresQuantico Creek and small lakes offer fishing and recreational opportunities approximately 18 miles of streams within the park.
Common complaintsParking spaces are limited and can be challenging for larger vehicles. Bathrooms are functional but lack showers. Some reviews mention high fees for vehicle parking and group sites.
Campground Map
VISITOR CENTER, 18170 PARK ENTRANCE ROAD, Triangle, VA, 22172, USA
Driving directionsFrom Washington, D.C., and points north, take I-95 south to exit 150-B toward VA Route 619/Joplin Road. The park entrance is the second right. It is an additional 5-minute drive from the park entrance to Turkey Run Ridge Group Campground. From Fredericksburg, Virginia, and points south, take I-95 north to exit 150 toward VA Route 619/Joplin Road. Turn left at the bottom of the exit ramp and continue on VA Route 619 West approximately 1/4 mile to the park entrance.
The park is accessible year-round and connected by paved roads. GPS devices may occasionally suggest closed gravel service roads, but the main vehicle entrance is through VA 619/Joplin Road.Nearby places
Quantico, VA (5 miles, approximately 15 minutes)
Fredericksburg, VA (30 miles, approximately 35 minutes)
Washington D.C. (35 miles, approximately 45 minutes).
Nearby supplies
Groceries, camping supplies, and fuel are available in Quantico, VA, approximately 5 miles from the park entrance.
Camper Reviews
4.8
52 reviews
Turkey Run Ridge Group is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews are overwhelmingly positive, highlighting clean facilities, spacious campsites, and convenient access to hiking and orienteering trails. Negative feedback includes limited parking and high fees.
Review Summaries
Based on 52 reviews
What Campers Love
Clean facilities, spacious campsites, availability of firewood, and helpful park rangers.
Based on 52 reviewsCommon Concerns
High parking fees, limited parking space, and lack of shower facilities.
Based on 52 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Carpool due to limited parking. Bring adequate supplies for tent camping, as no RVs or additional accommodations are available.
Based on 52 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Winter camping is well-received for scout and group activities, while rainy seasons may cause minor flooding.
Based on 52 reviewsCamper Quotes
"Bathrooms were clean and maintained all weekend." "The camp areas are separated enough by trees to feel private for each group." "Great hiking trails close by." "Firewood was provided."
Based on 52 reviewsSite-Specific Reviews
Site-specific mentions include Site H being popular for scout groups, Site E noted for its suitability for large gatherings, and Site F praised for proximity to hiking trails.
Based on 52 reviewsAccessibility Features
Groups with disabilities appreciated the clean restrooms and helpful rangers.
Based on 52 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025