Plan Like a Park Ranger 1-Day Itinerary Rock Creek Park

Rock Creek Park is a natural oasis within the District of Columbia.

NPS/ Kelsey Graczyk

Established by congress in 1890, Rock Creek Park was one of the first public parks ever designated by the federal government which would eventually fall under the umbrella of the National Park Service. That’s right, Rock Creek Park is a national park! The National Park Service has served as stewards of this land since 1933, offering opportunities for visitors to escape the hustle and bustle of the city, connect with nature, enjoy recreation, and learn about the history of D.C. We invite you to join us in preserving and appreciating this oasis of nature in the heart of D.C.

The main portion of Rock Creek Park stretches from the most northern point of D.C. and follows Rock Creek to where it joins the Potomac River in Georgetown. The park also includes several sites beyond Rock Creek including neighborhood parks, historic sites, and Civil War forts. With large trees protected for more than 130 years, the forests of Rock Creek Park provide an important stopover for migratory birds, and homes to both common wildlife and endangered species like the northern long-eared bat and the Hay’s spring amphipod, a small crustacean found nowhere else on earth.

Just like any excursion into one of our parks, the NPS wants you to plan like a park ranger. Whether you’re driving, hiking, or biking, bringing what you need and knowing where you’re going are essential to your trip’s success.

What to bring

• Water: Bring enough for your entire trip. You can re-fill on water at the park nature center or restrooms.
• Good walking shoes: Wear appropriate footwear for whatever activity you plan to do.
• Appropriate clothes and a hat: Always check weather and current conditions before you visit a national park and dress accordingly.
• A leash (if you’re bringing your pet): Pets must be on a leash at all times for the safety of your pet and the habitats we are working to preserve. Please visit the Pets page to learn more about what you can do with your pet during your visit to the park.
• Food: There are ample opportunities for grilling and picnicking across the park. Picnic sites can be reserved online!

Where to go

1. Nature Center

   • Kick off your day in Rock Creek Park by visiting the Nature Center, located in the heart of Rock Creek Park! Here you will find hiking information, brochures and maps, a bookstore, exhibits on area plants and animals, a bird observation deck, a "water-wise" native plant garden, and Pokey the box turtle.

2. Fort Stevens

   • Next visit the only fortification in D.C. that experienced a battle during the Civil War—Fort Stevens.
   • It was at this site that Confederate soldiers attempted an attack on Washington in 1864. It is also the site where President Lincoln observed the fighting and took fire from enemy sharpshooters. He is the only president in U.S. history to be on the receiving end of fire from enemy combatants.
   • The NPS has reconstructed fortifications that once stood at this site. Every year the anniversary of the Battle of Fort Stevens is commemorated with special programs, living history, and more.

3. Hike along Rock Creek

   • Rock Creek Park offers over 32 miles of hiking trails. Check out the park map or talk to a park ranger to plan out your hike!
   • Consider a hike along Rock Creek on the Valley Trail or if you want a more secluded hike through the woods, hike along the Western Ridge Trail. But there are many more options for hiking!
   • Some trails running along Rock Creek are paved and offer opportunities for biking, roller-skating, skateboarding, and scootering.
   • Stop at one of the many picnic areas for lunch. You can grill at some picnic areas.

4. Old Stone House

   • Following Rock Creek south will take you to Georgetown, home to the Old Stone House, the oldest structure on its original foundation in Washington, D.C. The Old Stone House predates Washington, D.C. and the American Revolution.
   • The house was built around 1766. Through the years, it has operated as a home, a retail store, and as a unit of the NPS. The house was never torn down due to a misconception that George Washington had used it as a headquarters while he helped acquire the land for the District of Columbia. In that time, the building housed several different businesses, was owned by multiple people, and housed several different families, possibly including enslaved people.
   • Today, you can find a gift shop, carrying on the Old Stone House’s history as a storefront.

5. Georgetown Waterfront Park

   • Wrap up your day exploring where Rock Creek meets the Potomac River at Georgetown Waterfront Park.
   • This park has gardens, a labyrinth, and a fountain for people of all ages to enjoy splashing and playing in during the summer. The park offers great views of the Potomac, Theodore Roosevelt Island, and the Francis Scott Key Memorial Bridge.
   • Finish your day in Rock Creek Park with a relaxing walk along the Potomac.