Our Story

Prince William Forest Park, VA (PWFP), a unit of the National Park Service (NPS)

Built during the 1930’s by the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) and Works Progress Administration (WPA) as a recreational demonstration area for urban populations and families, Prince William Forest Park provides visitors with a host of natural culture and history.   From 1942 to 1945 the park was home to America’s first centralized intelligence agency called the Office of Strategic Services (OSS and forerunner to the CIA) and is currently home to an estimated 80 American Beavers. Hence the name Spooky Beavers.

To read more PWFP history go to:

www.nps.gov/prwi

What exactly does a Spooky Beaver do?

While enjoying the great outdoors and camaraderie, trail maintenance and improvements are our focus.  Routine maintenance by a single overseer include tasks such as keeping the trail passage clear, blazing, clipping overgrowth of vegetation, routine cleaning of water diversion devices such as check dams and water bars, removing litter and removing blowdowns.  However, there are larger projects such as building of rock steps, check dams, water bars, new trail construction and replacing bridges that require the help of others. To accomplish these larger projects the Spooky Beavers usually meet as a group on a Saturday morning.  Anyone is welcome to join our crew and, best of all, no tools or experience is required.

In addition to trail maintenance, the Spooky Beavers support events sponsored by PATC and Prince William Forest Park.  The Spooky Beavers are always looking for volunteers to assist with trail maintenance and improvements.  See our calendar for details on projects and upcoming events.