Occoneechee State Park 2026 Annual Turkey Trot
About the race
The Friends of Occoneechee bring you their third annual Turkey Trot 5K race and kids' fun run/walk.
The 5K and one-mile kids' fun run are held in scenic Occoneechee State Park, which borders John Kerr Lake and the lakefront town of Clarksville, VA.
All proceeds directly benefit Occoneechee State Park, funding projects such as a pedestrian walkway and bike path, a sensory trail, and other park events, enhancements, and environmental projects.
Thanks to our community, local businesses, and the 2025 5K participants, we were able to complete the Breaking Point Disc Golf course and many other projects. Your generous contributions also allowed us to present 271 pounds of canned food to the local food bank.
Age Groups
Event overview
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, and wear your favorite costume. 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.
Race day and registration deadlines
When: November 14, 2026 (rain or shine)
Regular registration ends November 8, 2026. Late registration runs November 9 to 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
- Age: children 13 and under
- Parental assistance and strollers are welcome. Parents can participate at no charge.
- 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.
- In-person registration on event day is cash only.
5K fun run / walk
Start time: 11:00 AM
- 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.
- In-person registration on event day is cash only.
Park admission and food donations
- Park admission is $7 per vehicle, or you may donate four cans of food to be delivered to a local food bank.
Donations and drawing
Donations are always welcome and sincerely appreciated.
- Donors contributing $100 or more will be entered into a drawing to win a FREE 2027 Disc Golf Hole Sponsorship, a $300 value. Donation must be received by November 12.
- You can make your donation during registration.
What your entry includes
Cancellation policy
Athletes can cancel their registration, but no refund is given.
Refunds are not allowed for this race.
The course
1 MileSold Out
5KSold Out
The 5K course consists of paved roads, rolling hills, and lake views as it winds through wooded areas of the park.