12 National Parks to Explore In & Around Washington, DC

This park encompasses a historic canal that was built to transport coal from mining towns into DC. Construction began in 1828, but soon the railroad replaced this form of transportation. Today, the C&O Canal, which begins in Georgetown, is a hotbed for recreation and history. The towpath is a 184.5 mile trail running along the Potomac River featuring panoramic vistas and recreational activities while serving as a protected habitat for wildlife. Bicyclists make frequent use of the trail, which stretches all the way to Cumberland, Md.

The gorgeous landscape was established as a living legacy to the developers of the United States Constitution. Constitution Gardens’ 55 acres sit between the Washington Monument and the Lincoln Memorial on the National Mall. The gardens serve as a unique urban nature preserve, where visitors can enjoy peace in the middle of a bustling city.

Even locals are mostly unaware of this small memorial park dedicated to one of America’s founding fathers, George Mason, found on the National Mall near the Jefferson Memorial. An architect of the Declaration of Independence, his likeness is seated on a bench in front of a garden with his important quotes engraved beside him.

Located inside of Anacostia Park, Kenilworth Aquatic Gardens should be a top destination for plant lovers. Aquatic plants are aplenty, as the gardens are the only national park dedicated to the growth and study of water-based plant life. Voyagers will find thousands of lotuses, water lilies and hyacinths as they wade through this oasis, which includes 45 ponds. Elevated boardwalks also allow visitors to follow trails into the habitat of the Great Blue Heron.

Take some time to explore this urban oasis, with its elaborate gardens, cascading fountains and Joan of Arc statue. Situated near the Columbia Heights neighborhood, Malcolm X Park (referred to as Meridian Hill Park by the National Park Service) was first a mansion, then a camp for Union soldiers, and eventually, an Italianate-style garden. Today, the park serves as a community gathering place known for hosting drum circles on Sundays.

DC’s answer to New York City’s Central Park (and over twice its size), Rock Creek Park is a vast expanse of rustic bliss, beginning in the northwestern quadrant of the District and stretching into Maryland. With miles of trails for hiking and biking, the possibilities and things to do are endless inside this natural expanse. Rock Creek also features a horse center for those with an equestrian streak. Other recreation options include tennis and golf. You'll also find the picturesque Peirce Mill, which was built in 1839 to produce power and mill grains. Later, the stone structure was used as a sawmill, orchard and tree nursery with labor provided by slaves.

The White House became the home for the president’s family in 1800. Today, the grounds around this iconic landmark are landscaped, protected and maintained by the National Park Service. In addition to serving as a site for protests, President’s Park envelops the National Christmas Tree and several military memorials.

This series of community parks, including Lincoln, Stanton, Marion and Folger parks, were developed to provide leisure resources in the neighborhood of Capitol Hill. Journey to the these parks for outdoor fun, then stop by Eastern Market to purchase some of its delicious eats.

National Park Service

Named after an old Civil War earthwork fort, Fort Dupont Park features roughly 400 acres perfect for recreation, right next to the Anacostia River. Inside, you will find a long hiker-biker trail (with numerous trails spurring off of it), plenty of space for picnics, Civil War history and even a beautiful community garden. The park is also famous for hosting summer concerts at its outdoor theater.

Located in northern Virginia (just a 15-minute drive from DC), Great Falls Park showcases the Potomac River in truly breathtaking fashion. The official Great Falls consist of the flowing river crashing over visually arresting rocks and cliffs, then through what is known as the Mather Gorge. One glimpse of the falls and you'll want to make a lasting mental snapshot. Park visitors can hike along six different trails on the park’s grounds, including the River Trail, which is your best bet for spectacular views of Mather Gorge.

One of American history’s greatest nature lovers is memorialized on an island along the Potomac River. Connected to the Virginia side of the river by its own bridge (it’s very close to the Key Bridge, and just off the George Washington Memorial Parkway), Theodore Roosevelt Island contains a majestic statue and surrounding memorial dedicated to the 26th president. The island also contains its own forest, miles of trails through woods and swamps, as well as breathtaking scenery.
 

Still looking for more outdoor adventures? Check out our favorite free outdoor activities in Washington, DC.