Rock Creek Park

Peirce Mill
Rock Creek Park is truly a gem in our nation's capital. 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.
Map showing location of park.
NPS Finalizes Agreement for Trail Reopening and Foundry Branch Trestle Bridge Removal
The National Park Service is taking the next step toward authorizing the demolition of the Foundry Branch streetcar bridge in Glover-Archbold Park. On July 15, the NPS released the final Memorandum of Agreement for the proposed removal of the structure.
Four Civil War living history interpreters teach five children the drills.
Witness Civil War history at Fort Stevens Day on July 11 in Washington, D.C.
The National Park Service and the Alliance to Preserve the Civil War Defenses of Washington invite the public to Fort Stevens Day on Saturday, July 11, 2026, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Fort Stevens, 13th Street NW and Quackenbos Street NW.
A view of a cannon firing demonstration
National Park Service Seeks Feedback on Future of Civil War Defenses of Washington 
The National Park Service invites you to comment on a proposed update to the management plan for the Civil War Defenses of Washington, the historic network of forts, batteries and parkland that protected the nation’s capital during the Civil War.
young boy laying a wreath on a gravestone
Rock Creek Park Commemorates America’s 250th Anniversary with a Series of Events
In 2026, Rock Creek Park and its partners will bring history to life with exciting programs and events for all ages. Come hike, explore, discover, volunteer and celebrate America’s 250th anniversary in Rock Creek Park.
The Francis Scott Key Memorial in Rock Creek Park
Rock Creek Park Celebrates National Poetry Month with Special Programs
In April 2026, as National Poetry Month celebrates its 30th anniversary, Rock Creek Park will host a series of programs and workshops about poetry. Join us to learn about Americans who created poetry, influenced the nation with their writings and continue to inspire future poets, authors and writers.
Stone bridge and fall leaves
Photo by NPS Photo
Water swirls around large boulders in a creek. Trees in autumn colors line the bank
Photo by NPS Photo/ K. Cain
a one story building nestled among green leafy trees
Photo by NPS Photo
Dark boulders scattered through a narrow creek. Green trees rise up on either bank.
Photo by NPS Photo
A stone mill house
Photo by NPS Photo/Michael Zwelling