Occoneechee State Park 2026 Annual Turkey Trot

Occoneechee State Park Annual Turkey Trot

The Friends of Occoneechee bring you their third annual Turkey Trot 5K race and kid's fun run/walk. The 5K Race and one-mile kids fun run is conducted in scenic Occoneechee State Park which borders John Kerr Lake and the attractive lake front town of Clarksville VA... The 5K course consists of paved roads, rolling hills, and lake views as it winds through wooded areas of the park. All proceeds directly benefit Occoneechee State Park by providing funding for projects such as a pedestrian walkway and bike path, a sensory trail, and many other park events, enhancements, and environmental projects.  Thanks to our community, local businesses, and the 2025 5K participants we were able to successfully complete the Breaking Point Disc Golf course and many other projects for your enjoyment.  With your generous contributions were also able to present 271 pounds of canned food to the local food bank.  

Immediately following the 5K, there will be an award for Best Costume, along with an Archery Program and Disc Golf Contest for the whole family to enjoy.

Bring your family, invite your friends, wear your favorite costume, and join us for a great day at the park!  

Whether you run, walk, hop, skip, or crawl, there's a place for you at the Turkey Trot!

This event is sponsored by the Friends of Occoneechee State Park, a volunteer nonprofit organization.

When: November 14, 2026 (Rain or Shine)

Regular Registration ends on November 8, 2026

Late registration begins November 9 – November 12.   You may also register in person on the day of the event,  (cash only). 

🏃 Kids 1-Mile Fun Run / Walk

Start Time: 10:00 AM

Registration Fee: $10

• Age: Children 13 and under

• Parental assistance and strollers are welcome.

• Well-mannered, leashed pets and costumes are welcome.

• Every participating child will receive a swag bag and medal.

• Healthy refreshments will be provided.

Kids' Registration Deadlines

• Regular registration ends November 8.

• Late registration: November 9–12 — $20. In-person registration on event day is available for cash only.

🏅 5K Fun Run / Walk

Start Time: 11:00 AM

Registration Fee: $30

• The 5K will be officially timed and measured and is open to participants of all ages and abilities.

• Well-mannered, leashed pets and costumes are welcome.

• Every participant will receive a swag bag, and healthy refreshments will be provided.

5K Awards

Medals will be awarded to the top three overall male and female finishers, as well as the top three male and female finishers in each of the following age groups:

• 19 and under

• 20–29

• 30–39

• 40–49

• 50–59

• 60 and over

Additional Information

• Race packets will be available on event day.

• Regular registration ends November 8.

• Late registration: November 9–12 — $45.  In-person registration on event day is available for cash only.

🍂 Park Admission & Food Donations

• Park admission is $7 per vehicle, or you may donate four cans of food to be delivered to a local food bank.

💚 Help Support Your Park!

Donations are always welcome and sincerely appreciated.

Donors contributing $100 or more will:

• Have their name displayed on the back of the event T-shirt.  Donation must be received by October 17th.

• Be entered into a drawing to win a FREE 2027 Disc Golf Hole Sponsorship—a $300 value! Donation must be received by November 12th.

You can make your donation during registration or simply select “Donate” at the top of the registration webpage.

Thank you for supporting the Friends of Occoneechee State Park.

We hope to see you at the starting line!