Video:Tips for Haunted Forests in DC

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Transcript:Tips for Haunted Forests in DC

Haunted houses are fun, but they are indoors and often too dark and scary for all kids to truly enjoy. Using the natural surroundings in the Washington, DC area are a number of different haunted forests and haunted walks that add enough spook factor to be scary but also provide a way to enjoy nature's changing colors.

Options for Haunted Forests in DC

One of the most popular outdoor Halloween events is Markoff's Haunted Forest located at Calleva Farm, 19120 Martinsburg Road, in Dickerson, Maryland. Retelling stories from childhood, this event is not super scary because it is well lit, so it's a Halloween attraction that even younger children can enjoy. Be sure to check the event's website for open hours and admission fees. Be sure to call ahead as inclement weather often closes many of these outdoor Halloween festivities. If it is open, be sure to dress warmly enough for the chilly October evenings, including a hat and jacket as well as walking shoes.

More Options for Haunted Forests in DC

Many of the other haunted forests are also located in Maryland. One of the more popular ones is Field of Screams located in Olney, Maryland. It features both indoor haunts and outdoor scary features like a 30-minute haunted trail and a haunted hayride. They also have a carnival with bonfires, music, and treats like deep-fried Twinkies, Oreos with chocolate sauce, and s'mores. There are also face painting, pumpkins, and a corn maze for the younger crowd. Tickets run from $10 to $55, depending on how many activities you want to do. Because this event is so popular, it's recommended attending on a weekday when there are fewer crowds.

More Options for Haunted Forests in Virginia

Northern Virginia also has its haunted forests and farms, which are not reccommended forr children under 13. These include Cox Farms Fields of Fear, Halloween Woods in Algonkian Regional Park, and the Wicked-woods Haunted Forest in Fredericksburg, Virginia. On the tamer side, there's also the Haunted Hallow in Warrenton, Virginia, which features stories told at an abandoned farm. Each event has different dates, times, and ticket prices. Information on these events can all found online and in local area newspapers.Also check the age range for each event to gauge the scare or gore factor. You can check out online videos of past haunted forests or call the event directly to find out what is involved in each Halloween experience to make sure it is age appropriate for your little ghouls and goblins.

I'm Jonathon Stewart, with About.com.