Located along the beautiful Virginia shore of the Potomac River just 7 miles from downtown Washington, D.C., Turkey Run Park contains over 700 acres of mostly forested land. Visitors to the park discover a quiet refuge from suburbia containing picnic area, access to miles of hiking trails - including the Potomac Heritage National Scenic Trail, and a surprisingly diverse community of plants and animals.

Things to Do

Ranger Programs

There are currently no scheduled ranger programs at Turkey Run Park. To request a ranger program for a group, please call 703-289-2553.

Hiking

There are several interconnecting hiking trails in Turkey Run Park. The Potomac Heritage Trail, a ten mile long trail running from Theodore Roosevelt Island to the American Legion Bridge, also goes through Turkey Run Park along the banks of the Potomac River.

Please use caution and bring appropriate clothing and supplies as trails can be steep, muddy, or flooded.

Turkey Run Park Trail Map

Potomac Heritage Trail Map

Birding

Turkey Run Park is a local favorite for birding. Over 230 species of birds have been documented in the local area.

Viewing Plants & Wildflowers

Springtime is an ideal time to see wildflowers in bloom in Turkey Run Park. The park is carpeted in Virginia bluebells during the month of April.

Plan Your Visit

Hours & Seasons

The park is open year-round from sunrise to sunset.

Directions

Turkey Run Park is located in McLean, Virginia, two miles off the Capital Beltway (Interstate 495) on the George Washington Memorial Parkway (GWMP).

• From I-495 (The Beltway) - Take exit 43. Follow GWMP for 2 miles to the Turkey Run Park exit on the right. Follow signs into the park.
• From Washington, D.C. and Old Town Alexandria: Take the GWMP northbound. Take a right-hand exit at the Turkey Run Park sign just after the Parkway Headquarters/U.S. Park Police Substation. Make first right turn into the park.

Facilities

Nestled atop the wooded hills of Turkey Run Park are three picnic areas (Areas A, B, and C). Picnic areas include tables, trash cans, and restroom facilities (with only one restroom open from late October - April 1). There are no picnic shelters. Grilling is permitted in the park if you provide your own grill and artificial fuel source (propane or charcoal). Ground fires are prohibited.

Rules and Regulations

For parkwide rules, please view the Park Compendium. Rules regarding Turkey Run Park include:

• Removing or damaging natural or cultural resources is prohibited
• Bicycles are prohibited on trails in Turkey Run Park
• Pets must be on a least no longer than 6 feet at all times
• Commercial and organized group activities within Turkey Run Park require a permit obtained from the National Park Service