Overview
Rock Creek Park is a large urban park in Washington, D.C., known for its extensive trails, diverse wildlife, and historical sites. It offers a serene escape from the city's hustle and bustle.
One of the oldest and largest natural areas in an urban setting in the United States.
Location
Address
Washington DC
Neighborhood: Adams Morgan
Coordinates
38.944200, -77.048900
Visiting Information
Opening Hours
Admission
Best Time to Visit
Overall Best Period
March-May, October-November
Best Time of Day
Early morning
fewer crowds, pleasant weather
Duration Recommendations
Seasonal Highlights
spring
mild to warm
- • cherry blossoms
- • wildflowers
summer
hot and humid
- • long daylight hours
autumn
cool and crisp
- • fall foliage
winter
cold, occasional snow
- • holiday lights
- • snowy landscapes
Know Before You Go
Essential Information
- No admission fee
- Leashed pets allowed
- Check trail conditions
What to Bring
essential
recommended
seasonal
not allowed
Health & Safety
Physical Requirements: moderate for some trails
- • uneven terrain
- • wildlife encounters
Medical facilities: first aid available at visitor center
Payment Information
Accepted
cash, cards
Currency
USD
Typical Costs
Dress Code
casual, comfortable, hiking shoes, layered clothing, walking/hiking shoes, inappropriate attire for hiking
Booking Tips
- • not required
- • official website for events
- • n/a
- • not applicable
Amenities
Digital Services
Mobile App
Rock Creek Park Explorer
Size: 60 MB
Features: Trail map, Audio guide, Event calendar
Platforms: iOS, Android
WiFi Zones: Visitor center
Charging Stations: Visitor center
How to Reach
From Airport
Nearest: Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport
Distance: 10 km
Travel Time: 20 minutes
From City Center
Distance: 5 km
Local Insights
Cultural Context
Why Locals Love It: Peaceful escape, rich history, diverse wildlife
Historical Significance: One of the first national urban parks
Insider Tips
- Free entry always
- Best views from High Point Overlook
Local Recommendations
- • Try local coffee at nearby cafes
- • Ask rangers for hidden gem trails
Language Help
Useful Phrases
Guide Languages: English, Spanish
Photography Guide
Best Photo Spots
Nature Center
Best Time: Golden hour
Tips: Low angle for landscapes
Result: Great natural shots
Beaver Pond
Best Time: Early morning
Tips: Wide shots for water reflections
Result: Serene water scenes
Photography Rules
Nearby Attractions
National Zoo
Distance: 2km
Walking: 25 min
Type: Zoo
Adams Morgan
Distance: 1.5km
Walking: 20 min
Type: Neighborhood
Reviews
Based on 850 reviews
Recent Visitor Tips
- "Visit early"
- "Explore all trails"
- "Bring water"
Contact Information
Related Tours & Activities (24)
Milford Sound Premium Coach & Cruise from Queenstown with Lunch
Bliss - Sedona’s Most Luxurious Wine Tour - Lunch Included!
Yosemite Highlights & Giant Sequoias Day Tour from San Francisco
Milford Sound Coach & Cruise ex Te Anau Stunning Views with Lunch
PRIVATE Sedona Jeep Tour Mild 4X4 - Red Rock Panoramic
Afternoon Half-Day Multnomah Falls and Columbia River Gorge Waterfalls Tour from Portland
PRIVATE Tour to Antelope Canyon/Horseshoe Bend
Aruba Island Sightseeing Tour Plus Arashi Beach Visit
Small-Group Death Valley National Park Day Tour from Las Vegas
Small-Group Half-Day Tour Foothills of the Rockies from Denver
Katherine Gorge Cruise & Edith Falls Day Trip from Darwin
Kanheri Cave with Global Vipassana Pagoda Tour in Private Vehicle
Morning Multnomah Falls and Gorge Waterfalls Tour
Milford Sound Coach & Cruise from Queenstown: Panoramic Views
Private Tour: Essential Tour of Aruba
Private Vancouver ALL IN ONE Full Day City Tour with 20 Attractions
Old Dubai Gold Souk and Water Taxi
Grand Canyon Full Day Private Tour & Hike
Explore Mt. Rainier National Park with a Local Guide
Morialta Wilderness and Wildlife Hike
Grand Moab, Scenic Heli Tour - 60 minutes
From Phoenix Private Grand Canyon Sedona Oak Creek Canyon Tour
Small-group Mt. St. Helen National Park Tour from Seattle in SUV
Vancouver City Tour With Stanley, Grouse Mountain & Capillano Suspension Private
Quick Info
Available Tours
3
Rating
4.6 / 5.0
Reviews
850
Adult Entry
Free