This 1,754 acre city park was officially authorized in 1890, making it the third national park to be designated by the federal government. It offers visitors the opportunity to escape the bustle of the city and find a peaceful refuge, recreation, fresh air, majestic trees, wild animals, and thousands of years of human history.
Photo: NPS Photo
- LocationWashington, DC
- Entrance No fee listed
- HoursDaily, Sunrise to Sunset
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Weather now73°F Overcast
- Alerts 5 active alerts
Overview
Topics
- Animals
- Artillery
- Astronomy
- Battlefields
- Birds
- Burial, Cemetery and Gravesite
- Civil War
- Climate Change
20 more topics
- Deciduous Forests
- Endangered
- Engineering
- Farming and Agriculture
- Forests and Woodlands
- Forts
- Industry
- Infantry and Militia
- Military
- Mills
- Monuments and Memorials
- Music
- National Cemetery
- Night Sky
- Plantations
- Social Movements
- Tortoises and Turtles
- Trails
- Unique Species
- Wars and Conflicts
Alerts (5)
Park ClosureLane Closures on Piney Branch Parkway Temporary lane closures will occur on Piney Branch Parkway from Friday, October 9 to Tuesday, October 13, as DC Water wi… Read more
Temporary lane closures will occur on Piney Branch Parkway from Friday, October 9 to Tuesday, October 13, as DC Water will use daily flagging operations between 17th St. and the 16th St. bridge to install speed tables within their temporary roadway. Also during the week of October 13, the Federal Highway Administration will conduct roadway milling and paving operations in the area. The work is expected to continue through October 16 but may extend into the following week, depending on weather conditions.
Park ClosureWaterside Drive NW Road Closure Temporarily Delayed The planned roadway closure has been temporarily postponed after crews discovered a large early‑1900s utility line durin… Read more
The planned roadway closure has been temporarily postponed after crews discovered a large early‑1900s utility line during preliminary excavation. The construction team is evaluating the line to determine necessary steps before work can safely proceed. This precaution will help minimize disruptions and avoid unnecessarily extending the roadway closure. We will share an update as soon as more information is available.
Park ClosureNature Center and Planetarium Closure The Nature Center and Planetarium building is closed until further notice due to continued remediation. Check the park's… Read more
The Nature Center and Planetarium building is closed until further notice due to continued remediation. Check the park's calendar for changes to ranger programs and locations.
Park ClosurePart of Fort Totten Park remains closed for public safety Out of an abundance of caution, Fort Totten Park will remain closed east of Fort Totten Drive, south of Gallatin Street/… Read more
Out of an abundance of caution, Fort Totten Park will remain closed east of Fort Totten Drive, south of Gallatin Street/Metropolitan Branch Trail and north of Brookland Ave NE/Farragut St. due to the investigation involving two WWI-era munitions found.
InformationMeridian Hill Park Upper-Level Irrigation Repairs to Begin Construction crews will begin work on the upper level of Meridian Hill Park the morning of October 7 to install a new ir… Read more
Construction crews will begin work on the upper level of Meridian Hill Park the morning of October 7 to install a new irrigation system. Utility work will take place the morning of October 6. The work area will remain limited to the active construction footprint.
Things to Do
25 experiences from the National Park Service. Check details on NPS.gov before you go.
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3-Mile Rolling Meadows Bridge Hike
This trail allows visitors to make the choice between the more rugged Valley Trail and the multi-use paved trail. Park visitors can enjoy creek views and a gentle walk through the forest.
Learn more about 3-Mile Rolling Meadows Bridge Hike on NPS.gov (opens in a new tab) -
Boulder Bridge Hike
Hike the 3.5-mile Boulder Bridge Loop from the Rock Creek Park Nature Center to one of the most iconic places in Rock Creek Park
Learn more about Boulder Bridge Hike on NPS.gov (opens in a new tab) -
Bridge Loop Trail
This 8-mile loop hike will take you on an adventure through the northern section of Rock Creek Park. In addition, you will cross over five of the named bridges that cross Rock Creek.
Learn more about Bridge Loop Trail on NPS.gov (opens in a new tab) -
Explore the Outdoors at Rock Creek Park
Rock Creek Park is truly a gem in our nation's capital. This park offers visitors the opportunity to escape the bustle of the city and find a peaceful refuge with majestic trees, wild animals, fresh…
Learn more about Explore the Outdoors at Rock Creek Park on NPS.gov (opens in a new tab) -
Hike the Northern Loop in Rock Creek Park
Enjoy an easy 5-mile round trip hike around the northern section of Rock Creek Park.
Learn more about Hike the Northern Loop in Rock Creek Park on NPS.gov (opens in a new tab) -
Hike the Southern Loop in Rock Creek Park
The Southern Loop provides visitors with an almost 5-mile loop to explore the deciduous forests of the Western Ridge and provides numerous opportunities for varying terrain on the return trip to…
Learn more about Hike the Southern Loop in Rock Creek Park on NPS.gov (opens in a new tab) -
Hike the Valley Trail
The Valley Trail stretches for five miles down the east side of Rock Creek Park from Boundary Bridge to a spot near Peirce Mill and Picnic Grove #1.
Learn more about Hike the Valley Trail on NPS.gov (opens in a new tab) -
Hike the Western Ridge Trail
The Western Ridge Trail has green trail markings and runs the length of the park north to south.
Learn more about Hike the Western Ridge Trail on NPS.gov (opens in a new tab)
Showing 8 of 13
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Camping
1 campground listed on Recreation.gov. Check availability and current conditions before you go.
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Group Picnic Areas (DC)
Reservable Campground
Eight group picnic areas in Rock Creek Park are available for advance reservation from April 1 through November 30. These picnic areas are available on a first-come…
Reserve on Recreation.gov- Hiking
- Biking
- Historic & Cultural Site
- Interpretive Programs
Details
Fees: Half day $65.00 Full day $130.00. No refund for cancellation.
Overview
Eight group picnic areas in Rock Creek Park are available for advance reservation from April 1 through November 30. These picnic areas are available on a first-come, first-served basis from December 1 through March 31.
Recreation
Recreational activities in Rock Creek Park include: soccer, picnics, hiking, biking, roller blading, tennis, fishing, horseback riding and attending a concert or park ranger program.Facilities
All picnic groves are equipped with multiple picnic tables, some also have fireplaces that can be used for cooking. User must provide a cooking grate or other cooking equipment. Picnic groves 1, 6, 13 and 24 have pavilions. Some sites offer access to toilet facilities, though not all. Please refer to specific grove descriptions for details.Natural Features
Rock Creek Park is truly a gem in our nation's capital. Fresh air, majestic trees, wild animals and the ebb and flow of Rock Creek emanate the delicate aura of the forest.Nearby Attractions
Rock Creek Park is located near many national monuments and museums in the nation's capital.
Facilities & Services
Find visitor services available in the park. Check current hours and availability before you go.
Other Visitor Services
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Nature Center
Facility
The Nature Center is home to our Planetarium and nature exhibit area which features displays of plants and animals that can be found in the park. Most of Rock Creek…
5200 Glover Road NW, Washington, DC (202) 895-6070 Directions
Details
The Nature Center is home to our Planetarium and nature exhibit area which features displays of plants and animals that can be found in the park. Most of Rock Creek park's public and educational programs begin at the Nature Center. -
Old Stone House
Facility
Built circa 1765, Old Stone House is the oldest structure on its original foundation in Washington, DC. Old Stone House is open for visitors at the hours listed below…
3051 M Street, NW, Washington, DC (202) 895-6070 Directions
Details
Built circa 1765, Old Stone House is the oldest structure on its original foundation in Washington, DC. Old Stone House is open for visitors at the hours listed below. The grounds are open according to general park hours (sunrise to sunset). -
Peirce Mill
Facility
Peirce Mill, built in the 1820s, is the last operational grist mill along Rock Creek. The grounds are open according to general park hours.
2401 Tilden Street NW, Washington, DC (202) 895-6070 Directions
Details
Peirce Mill, built in the 1820s, is the last operational grist mill along Rock Creek. The grounds are open according to general park hours.
Plan Your Visit
Hours
Daily, Sunrise to Sunset · Rock Creek Park lands
Hours details
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Rock Creek Park landsDaily, Sunrise to Sunset
Unless otherwise designated, all park land is open sunrise to sunset. Roads are open 24 hours unless posted otherwise.
Monday Sunrise to Sunset Tuesday Sunrise to Sunset Wednesday Sunrise to Sunset Thursday Sunrise to Sunset Friday Sunrise to Sunset Saturday Sunrise to Sunset Sunday Sunrise to Sunset
Entrance fees
No entrance fees listed.
Address
5200 Glover Road NWWashington, DC 20015
Contact the park
Weather & conditions
73°F
Overcast · feels like 69°
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Today
74° 58°
Overcast80% rain
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Tomorrow
81° 60°
Sunny5% rain -
Wednesday
87° 67°
Sunny17% rain
Updated 3 hr ago
What to expect by season
Weather in D.C. is often erratic. Spring: Pleasant, Avg. High: 67° Avg. Low: 44.3°, Avg. Precipitation: 12.1” Summer: Hot & Humid, Avg. High: 87°, Avg. Low: 66°, Avg. Precipitation: 12.7”, July is the hottest month Fall: Pleasant, Avg. High: 69°, Avg. Low: 48.3°, Avg. Precipitation: 11.6” Winter: Mild, Avg. High: 45°, Avg. Low: 27.3°, Avg. Precipitation: 9.3”, Avg. Snowfall: 15.4” January is coolest month. Hurricanes may impact D.C. in late summer and fall. Light droughts are not uncommon in summer.
Upcoming Events
10 coming up-
Be a Junior Naturalist Hike
About
Do you want to connect with nature but you’re not sure how to get started? Do you want to be more present outside and escape the distractions of the modern era? Take a junior naturalist hike with a ranger and learn how to observe and study the natural world around you as you hike between ½ - 1 ½ miles through the Rock Creek Valley. Come prepared with water, appropriate layers, comfortable hiking shoes, and an open mind willing to practice a new skill. Recommended ages 8+.
Walk may be cancelled in the event of bad weather at the discretion of park staff. Feel free to check the Rock Creek Park website the day of to confirm or call the Nature Center (202-895-6070) the day of to confirm. Be sure to leave a voicemail for a callback.
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Books and Beyond with a Ranger at Peirce Mill Barn
About
If you have a little one to take care of and are looking for something fun to do, come read and sing all about nature with a park ranger! This program includes nature books, animal puppets, body movements, and songs.
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Building Camelot: JFK in Georgetown
About
Come join a ranger as we walk in the same path of John F. Kennedy as he first arrived in Georgetown in 1946 as a 29-year-old congressman to his meteoric rise to our 35th President. The tour is appropriate for all ages. Wear comfortable walking shoes and bring water. This hike will utilize sidewalks that can be narrow and uneven at times. It will traverse nearly two miles of neighborhood streets in the Georgetown area of DC.
The walk starts at the Georgetown Waterfront by Swedish Embassy on 30th street.
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Fun with Flora and Fauna
About
Spend Friday afternoons and Sunday mornings at Rock Creek Park learning about our wild and wonderful urban oasis! Park Rangers will teach kids (and people of all ages) about the fantastic flora and fauna in the park.
Meet the ranger on the Nature Center front porch.
Show 6 more events
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Roosevelt at Rock Creek Park
About
Lace up your hiking boots and follow in the footsteps of Theodore Roosevelt, the adventurous president who believed that time spent in nature built character, courage, and a stronger nation. Beginning at Peirce Mill, this 1.5-mile (round-trip) guided hike winds through scenic trails and rugged landscapes that Roosevelt explored while escaping the pressures of the presidency.
This hike covers uneven, tight, rocky terrain with steep elevation changes and may be challenging for some visitors. Participants should wear sturdy footwear, bring water, and dress appropriately for the weather. Recommended for ages 10 and older. Children must be accompanied by an adult.
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Stitching Stories: A Social Stitch Circle at Peirce Barn
About
Join Rock Creek Park's rangers for Stitching Stories, a community-powered knitting circle inspired by Freedom 250. Enjoy informal conversations about colonial-era fiber arts and how women used handmade textiles in daily life in support of the American Revolution.
This is not a class—just a relaxed space for knitters of all levels to gather, chat, and work on their own projects. Bring a piece you’re already working on or start something new!
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After Emancipation History Hike
About
Step into a powerful and often untold chapter of local history on a 1.5-mile guided hike with a park ranger in the Peirce Mill area. Explore both the lives of formerly enslaved and contemporary individuals who built new beginnings in the community that became Rock Creek Park, discovering who they were, where they lived, and how their resilience and contributions helped shape the park we know today.
Recommended for ages 12 and up. Walk may be cancelled in the event of bad weather at the discretion of park staff. Feel free to call the Nature Center (202-895-6070) the day of to confirm and be sure to leave a voicemail for a callback.
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Mobilizing Memories at Meridian Hill
About
Meridian Hill Park, colloquially referred to as Malcolm X Park, is known for its beauty, art, recreation, First Amendment space, and illustrious history. Join a ranger for a formal walking tour of the upper and lower terraces when you'll have the chance to visit the various statues and features of the park while exploring the theme of "who we choose to memorialize and why.” The tour meets by the bathrooms inside the park near 15th Street and Euclid St.
The walk may be cancelled in the event of bad weather at the discretion of park staff. Feel free to check the Rock Creek Park website the day of to confirm. Or call the Nature Center (202-895-6070) the day of to confirm and be sure to leave a voicemail for a callback.
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Ramble with a Ranger
About
Join a ranger for a pleasant hike through the woods and along the creek. Ranger's choice of route - the hike may be between 1.5-3.5 miles. Come prepared with proper footwear and clothing, water, and curiosity to connect with nature. Meet on the front porch of the Nature Center and Planetarium.
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Ramble with a Ranger
About
Join a ranger for a pleasant hike through the woods and along the creek. Ranger's choice of route - the hike may be between 1.5-3.5 miles. Come prepared with proper footwear and clothing, water, and curiosity to connect with nature. Meet on the front porch of the Nature Center and Planetarium.
Photos
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Rock Creek Park Nature Center and Planetarium — NPS Photo -
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Getting There
Washington, DC 20015
Ample parking for hiking, biking and visiting the Nature Center is located at 5200 Glover Road NW. Rock Creek Park is a large urban park stretching from the Maryland - DC border to the Potomac River.
Full directions
Rock Creek Park also administers 99 separate neighborhood small sites. A large network of public roads provide access to all points administered by Rock Creek Park.
Mailing address: 3545 Williamsburg Lane NW, Washington, DC 20008
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