News Release

Piney Branch Parkway brush fire extinguished

DC Fire firefighters working to extinguish the brush fire.

News Release Date: March 22, 2023

Contact: Brian Joyner, 202-895-6002

UPDATE (April 4, 2023): Following an investigation, the NPS learned that the fire had burned 5.3 acres and there was minor personal property damage. The cause of the fire has still not been determined.  

WASHINGTON—Around 1 p.m. today, DC Fire responded to a report of a fire in Rock Creek Park on the north slope of Piney Branch Parkway near Beach Drive NW. The fire has been extinguished and all park roads have been reopened.  

Nearby residents were contacted and no personal property was damaged. At this time, the cause of the fire has not been determined.  

Rock Creek Park estimates that approximately two acres were burnt in the fire but will know more after further inspection.  

U.S. Park Police closed Piney Branch Parkway at 17th Street and at Beach Drive while DC Fire addressed the fire.  

The National Park Service is grateful for DC Fire’s response and assistance in putting out the fire.  

-NPS-