Rock Creek Park
Trailie
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Rock Creek Park at a glance
- Best time
- March–May, October–November
- Trip length
- Half day–2 days
- Don't miss
- Main Rock Creek Park highlights — see Things to Do for current listings
- Nearby city
- Washington, DC
Explore this park
About Rock Creek Park
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.
Weather Information
Weather in D.C. is often erratic.
- Spring
Pleasant, Avg.
- Summer
Hot & Humid, Avg.
- Fall
Pleasant, Avg.
High: 67° Avg. Low: 44.3°, Avg. Precipitation: 12.1” High: 87°, Avg. Low: 66°, Avg. Precipitation: 12.7”, July is the hottest month High: 69°, Avg. Low: 48.3°, Avg. Precipitation: 11.6” Winter: Mild, Avg. High: 45°, Avg. Low: 27.3°, Avg. Precipitation: 9.3”, Avg. Snowfall: 15.4” January is coolest month. Hurricanes may impact D.C. in late summer and fall. Light droughts are not uncommon in summer.
Operating Hours
Rock Creek Park lands
Unless otherwise designated, all park land is open sunrise to sunset. Roads are open 24 hours unless posted otherwise.
- MondaySunrise to Sunset
- TuesdaySunrise to Sunset
- WednesdaySunrise to Sunset
- ThursdaySunrise to Sunset
- FridaySunrise to Sunset
- SaturdaySunrise to Sunset
- SundaySunrise to Sunset
Common questions
Planning Rock Creek Park
The summary above covers timing and highlights. These go deeper on reservations, crowds, and logistics.
Reservation rules vary by season and activity for Rock Creek Park. Check the Permits tab on this page and Recreation.gov before you travel — campground, tour, or backcountry permits may apply even without park-wide timed entry.
See Permits tab →
