Prince William Forest

Prince William Forest Park is a serene oasis in northern Virginia, located adjacent to the Marine Corps Base Quantico. It is the largest example of Eastern Piedmont forest in the National Park System. Established in 1936 as Chopawamsic Recreation Area, and developed by the Works Progress Administration, it served as a refuge for children's "relief" camps during the Great Depression. From 1942-45, the Office of Strategic Services (OSS), the precursor to the CIA, converted the sleepy summer camps into a secret training area. For four years, thousands went there to learn the art of spying. Today it offers 37 miles of hiking trails, 21 miles of biking trails and roads, campsites, and abundant wildlife.