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National Capital Parks-East

The red barns and outbuildings at Oxon Hill Farm

The Barnyard at Oxon Hill Farm

Photo: NPS photo

About

National Capital Parks — East invites you to explore more than 8,000 acres of scenic parkland, historic landmarks, and vibrant community spaces across Washington, D.C. and Maryland. From the riverside trails of Anacostia Park to the homes of American leaders like Frederick Douglass and Carter G. Woodson, each of our 17 nationally significant parks offers a distinct experience.

Activities

Biking

Directions

DC295 South to the Exit for I-694/I-395/Capitol Hill then a left Exit 4B to 11th St SE/MLK Jr Ave. Turn Left at light onto 11st/MLK JR. ** I-295 North to Exit 4B to 11th St SE/MLK Jr Ave. Turn Right at the light. ** From downtown DC: I-395 to I-695/SW Freeway, take Exit 1C 11th St SE. Turn Right onto 11th St ** ** At the light turn Right onto Good Hope Road. At the Stop Sign turn Left. Turn Left at the next road way.

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Weather

Summers are generally hot and humid, with daytime highs frequently above 90 degrees Fahrenheit, high humidity, and scattered afternoon thunderstorms. Winters are generally cold, with nighttime lows frequently near freezing and occasional snowfall. Weather during spring and fall is generally moderate, but can change quickly.

News

Celebrate America’s Story in the National Capital Area During National Park Week, August 22-30
Aug 21, 2026

Celebrate America’s Story in the National Capital Area During National Park Week, August 22-30

The National Park Service is excited to welcome visitors to celebrate National Park Week from Saturday, August 22 through Sunday, August 30, as dozens of sites across the region mark the 2026 theme, “Celebrate America’s Story,” highlighting the 250th anniversary of American independence and recognizing our shared American heritage of national parks.

Step Into a World of Lotus, Lilies, and Culture at Kenilworth Aquatic Gardens July 18 and 19
Jul 7, 2026

Step Into a World of Lotus, Lilies, and Culture at Kenilworth Aquatic Gardens July 18 and 19

On July 18 and 19, Kenilworth Aquatic Gardens will transform into an enchanted escape. For this one summer weekend, music, dance, art and family activities will carry visitors through a landscape inspired by Asian gardens and the living wetlands of the Anacostia River, where water lilies float like lanterns across quiet ponds and towering lotus blossoms rise in shades of pink, cream and green. The National Park Service invites visitors of all ages to attend the free Lotus and Water Lily Festival on Saturday, July 18, and Sunday, July 19, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. at Kenilworth Aquatic Gardens, 1550 Anacostia Ave. NE, Washington, DC 20019.

Jun 26, 2026

National Park Service Invites Public to Celebrate July 4 at Anacostia Park

The National Park Service invites the public to celebrate Independence Day at Anacostia Park, a vibrant community gathering space along the Anacostia River offering expansive, open-air views of Washington's July 4 fireworks.