Telegraph Picnic Pavilion

About

Telegraph Picnic Pavilion is a day-use picnic facility located in Prince William Forest Park, a 15,000-acre Piedmont forest preserve about 35 miles southwest of Washington, D.C. The covered pavilion features a 30x20-foot roof over a porous brick pad with 12 picnic tables, four charcoal grills, electrical outlets, and a water fountain. Adjacent amenities include flush restrooms with food-service sinks. The pavilion was renovated in 2025 for universal wheelchair accessibility. The surrounding Telegraph Road Picnic Area includes approximately 20 additional picnic tables scattered throughout the woods, most with their own grills. A short path leads to William's Ballfield, suitable for softball, frisbee, volleyball, and horseshoes. The 75-vehicle parking lot can accommodate large groups. This is strictly a day-use facility; overnight camping is not permitted. The pavilion can be reserved for $80/day via Recreation.gov or used first-come-first-served (park entrance fee required). Alcohol is allowed only with a rental permit, and groups of 50+ serving alcohol need a Virginia ABC permit. No lighter fluid is permitted for grills.

Directions

From 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. Telegraph Picnic Area is located behind the visitor center, approximately 1.5 miles from the park entrance. From Fredericksburg 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.