In this guide, we look at Bull Run Regional Park – what the park is about, how to get there, things to do, and some tips.
If you are looking for fun outdoor activities or a relaxing weekend in Virginia, the Bull Run Regional Park might just be the place to go. There’s a waterpark to splash in, hiking trails to explore, campgrounds to light a bonfire, and more.
Did you know? Bull Run Park is one of the best tourist attractions in Northern Virginia!
1. Bull Run Regional Park
Sprawling over 1500 acres, the Bull Run Region Park has loads of outdoor adventures in bountiful nature. The park was opened way back in 1960, and initially offered picnicking and camping. Now with hundreds of activities on the table, Bull Run Regional Park is an ideal location for you and your family to have a memorable weekend.
2. Things to Do in Bull Run Regional Park
With tons of activities, we have listed some of the most exciting ones you could participate in. Here goes the list:
2.1 Visit the Atlantis Waterpark
Who doesn’t like swimming and splashing in the pool? The Atlantis Waterpark offers a 500-gallon swimming pool with really fun slides – you can try the 230-foot open slide and 170-foot closed slide. The waterpark also has child-friendly facilities like a baby pool and a sand play area.
Moreover, the waterpark also has a large wave pool, lazy rivers, sprayers, water cannons, and other water activities. If you feel like grabbing a snack or a meal, there’s Neptune’s Reef right beside the waterpark. You can relax under the shaded umbrella while you enjoy your meal.
2.2. Stay at the Rustic Camping Cabins
If camping in the woods sounds like a great idea, then the camping cabins at Bull Run Park are sure to please you.
For a comfortable camping experience, the Bull Run Regional Park offers 9 countryfied cabins in the woods. The cabins have two rooms – the backroom has a double bed and the front room has a sofa, microwave, a mini-refrigerator, and all other necessary camping supplies.
Besides, there’s electricity available round the clock, air conditioners and thermostats. Outside the cabins, you will find a swing, a charcoal grill, and a picnic table – perfect for an outdoorsy meal.
Other various campsites are available at the Bull Run campground, these include – electric RV sites (with water), RV sites with electric-only service, RV sites (includes sewer, electricity and water) tent sites, and group camping areas.
2.3. A Walk through the Bluebell Trail
The Bluebell Trial lies near the Atlantis Waterpark and has some breathtaking views. A walk through the Bluebell Trial will give you a good look at the forest of Bull Run Regional Park.
It is a mile-and-a-half loop hike with easy terrain, which makes it suitable for families with kids. If you visit the Bluebell Trail in April-May, you may get to see over 20 varieties of flower blossoms.
2.4. Attend the Bull Run Regional Park – Festival of Lights
From November until New Year’s Eve, you can experience the Festival of Lights at Bull Run Park. It is a two-and-a-half-mile illuminated holiday lights display that consists of tons of shimmering and colorful lights.
After experiencing the phenomenal lighting display, you can stop at the holiday village to grab something to eat, play carnival games, and click some pictures with Santa Claus.
Bull Run is usually a very crowded destination, so if you want to avoid waiting in a queue, visit the park on weekdays.
2.5. Show off Your Skills at Disc Golf
Disc Golf is a perfect sport for players of all skill levels. The course has 18 holes and runs through the woods of Camp Store and Atlantis Waterpark. If you want to get involved in some sporting activity with your family, this is the place. It is open throughout the year.
You can rent or buy the sporting equipment from the Camp Store. Make sure you visit the Disc Golf and swing the club to hole some golf balls.
3. How to Get to Bull Run Regional Park?
Bull Run Regional Park is situated in Centreville, Virginia. It is precisely located near Interstate 66 in the Occoquan Steam Valley. The park is around 40 minutes (by car) away from Washington D.C and around 15 miles away from Vienna Metro Center Station.
You can go the Bull Run Park by public transportation, taxi, or car. The cheapest option (by public transportation) is the subway.
4. Some Important Tips for Visiting Bull Run Regional Park
Here are some tips to ensure your visit to Bull Run Regional Park gets better:
4.1. Have Plenty of Water
The weather in Bull Park could get hot, so to stay hydrated you should have enough fluids with you.
4.2. Wear Comfortable Clothes
Dress appropriately keeping in mind the activities you are going to participate in. Wear comfortable shoes, carry a hat, and carry sunscreen too.
4.3. Check the Weather Forecast
Make sure you check the weather before going to the park and plan your trip accordingly.
4.4. Carry an Insect Repellent
Use insect repellent to protect yourself from bugs and insects. While hiking trails, repellent might come in handy.
4.5. Be Aware of Wildlife
Bull Run Park is known as the home to wildlife, so it is very likely you come across wildlife while exploring the trails at the Bull Run, so make sure you keep some distance away from them.
Final Words
If you live in Virginia, Bull Run Park is one of the iconic locations where you could spend a weekend with your family. Upon visiting the park in November-December, witnessing the Festival of Lights will surely be the most mesmerizing experience of your holidays.
If you are planning your next weekend, then Bull Run Park is definitely worth a visit.
You may be interested in: 5 Amazing Things to do in Channel Island National Park
Last Updated on September 15, 2023 by Janhavi Ramesh Kowligi
