TOP 10 Outdoor environmental activities in Washington, Virginia

Fort Dupont Park Activity Center is a historic institution located on Fort Dupont Drive Southeast in Washington, District of Columbia, United States. This 361-acre wooded park was once a Civil War fort, built to protect the nation's capital. Today, visitors can explore the fort's earthworks and enjoy a variety of outdoor activities such as picnics, nature walks, biking, gardening, environmental education, music, and ranger-led programs. The park also offers an overview of the Civil War Defenses of Washington, highlighting the roles of Fort Stevens and other forts during the war. Visitors can experience these historic sites firsthand while enjoying the beautiful natural surroundings of the park.

Washington Youth Garden is a one-acre education garden located at the National Arboretum in Washington, D.C. Established in 1971, the garden serves as a destination for garden-based education and nature play for the local community. The goal of the garden is to share innovative growing techniques, encourage nature play, and grow fresh produce for the community. Visitors of all ages can engage with agriculture, farming, and environmental education through various garden features such as the pollinator garden, sensory garden, food production area, and Nature Explore classroom. The garden also distributes thousands of pounds of fresh fruits and vegetables to students and families in the DC community to combat food insecurity. The Washington Youth Garden is currently undergoing renovations, including the installation of a new perimeter fence to expand the growing space of the garden. Donations are being accepted to support the renovation project, with matching gifts available for community contributions. The garden also offers membership opportunities starting at $45, as well as a passionate community of supporters with membership starting at $1,200.

The George Washington & Jefferson National Forest is a sprawling park located in Millboro, Virginia, United States. Covering over 1.8 million acres, this institution offers visitors a chance to explore diverse ecosystems, including old-growth forests, pristine streams, and rugged mountains. Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy a variety of recreational activities such as hiking, camping, fishing, and wildlife viewing. With its breathtaking scenery and abundant natural beauty, the George Washington & Jefferson National Forest is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and adventurers alike.

Tregaron Conservancy is a tranquil park and tourist attraction located at 3100 Macomb Street Northwest in Washington, DC. Nestled between the Cleveland Park and Woodley Park neighborhoods, this green oasis offers woodland gardens, meadows, streams, and trails for visitors to explore. The Conservancy works tirelessly to restore and maintain the parkland, relying on private donations to support their efforts. Visitors can enjoy the annual Easter egg hunt and musical experiences for families, as well as admire the blooming cherry trees and daffodils in the spring. Don't miss the fragrant paperbush near the Lily Pond! For a peaceful escape in the heart of the city, visit Tregaron Conservancy today. Contact them at info@tregaronconservancy.org or 202-810-5009.

Turtle Park is a charming outdoor destination located in Washington, D.C. This unique park is a popular tourist attraction, known for its beautiful landscaping and serene atmosphere. Visitors can enjoy leisurely walks along the winding paths, relax on the lush green lawns, and admire the various species of turtles that call the park home. With its convenient location in the heart of the city, Turtle Park is the perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle of urban life and connect with nature. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or a fun day out with family and friends, Turtle Park offers something for everyone to enjoy.

Fort Dupont Park is a 361-acre wooded park located on Minnesota Avenue Southeast in Washington, DC. This historic park was once home to an earthen fort built during the Civil War to protect the nation's capital. Visitors can explore the fort's earthworks and enjoy a variety of outdoor activities such as picnics, nature walks, biking, and gardening. The park also offers environmental education programs, music events, and ranger-led activities. Learn about the Civil War Defenses of Washington and the significance of forts like Fort Stevens in protecting the city during the war. Visitors can experience the history of these forts firsthand while enjoying the beauty of the park.

Anacostia Park Section F is a part of the larger Anacostia Park located at C Street Northeast in Washington, DC. This neighborhood national park offers a variety of activities for visitors to enjoy, such as exercise along the river trail or relaxation by the water. It serves as a peaceful oasis in the midst of the bustling city. One unique feature of Anacostia Park Section F is its roller skating rink, the only one of its kind within the National Park Service. Visitors can lace up their skates and enjoy a fun and active experience in this scenic park setting.

Kenilworth Park & Aquatic Gardens is a hidden oasis located at 1550 Anacostia Avenue Northeast in Washington, D.C. This park and tourist attraction is a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of city life, where visitors can observe beavers, turtles, lotus blooms, and lilies in their natural habitat. The park is home to a variety of bird species and offers ever-changing plant and wildlife displays throughout the year. Whether you're looking to relax in nature or enjoy a peaceful stroll, Kenilworth Park & Aquatic Gardens is the perfect destination. The institution is open every day except for January 1, Thanksgiving, and December 25, welcoming visitors from near and far to experience the beauty of this unique natural setting.

Marvin Gaye Park, located at 5200 Foote Street Northeast in Washington, D.C., is a beautiful green oasis in the heart of the city. This park is not just a tourist attraction, but a vital resource for the surrounding communities. With a rock, a river, and a tree, Marvin Gaye Park offers a peaceful retreat for all people to enjoy. As one of the greenest major cities in North America, Washington, D.C. is home to a wealth of public green spaces like Marvin Gaye Park. However, despite the importance of these parks for public health, there is a lack of investment in critical programs to keep them safe, vital, and equitable for all. This is especially concerning in a time when access to nature is crucial for surviving the challenges of today, such as COVID-19, racial injustice, and poverty.

Earth Day Park is a beautiful green oasis located in the heart of Washington, D.C. This park is dedicated to promoting environmental awareness and sustainability, making it the perfect destination for nature lovers and eco-conscious individuals. With lush greenery, walking paths, and educational exhibits, Earth Day Park offers a peaceful retreat in the bustling city. Visitors can learn about the importance of protecting our planet and participate in various eco-friendly activities. Located at 9th Street Southwest, Earth Day Park is a must-visit destination for those looking to connect with nature and make a positive impact on the environment.

Westminster Park is a picturesque green space located at 911 Westminster Street Northwest in Washington, D.C. This tranquil oasis in the bustling city offers a serene escape for visitors to relax and unwind. With lush grassy areas, shady trees, and well-maintained pathways, Westminster Park is the perfect spot for a leisurely stroll, a picnic with friends and family, or simply enjoying the beauty of nature. Whether you're looking to soak up some sun, read a book in peace, or take a refreshing break from urban life, Westminster Park provides a welcoming and rejuvenating environment for all who visit.

Seneca Regional Park, located in Great Falls, Virginia, offers a day of outdoor adventure and exploration in pristine wilderness. Visitors can hike or horseback ride along winding trails that lead to the Potomac River, where they can discover the remnants of George Washington's Potowmack Canal. This equestrian-friendly park is intersected by the Potomac National Heritage Trail, following the historic routes explored by Washington himself. The park is open from dawn to dusk for hiking, walking, and horseback riding, with proper social distancing protocols in place. Visitors can also enjoy the largest ropes course in the Mid-Atlantic, Climb UPton, which offers 90 different elements and three levels of difficulty. Additionally, Seneca Regional Park offers summer camps and employment opportunities for those looking for a fun and rewarding summer experience. With beautiful hiking trails, swimming holes along the Potomac River, and a variety of activities to enjoy, Seneca Regional Park is a must-visit destination for outdoor enthusiasts in Northern Virginia.

Kenilworth Park is a beautiful outdoor space located at 1500 Deane Avenue Northeast in Washington, D.C. This park offers a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of the city, with lush greenery, scenic walking paths, and a peaceful atmosphere. Visitors can enjoy picnicking, birdwatching, fishing, and exploring the park's natural beauty. Kenilworth Park is the perfect place to relax and unwind in the heart of the nation's capital.

Hotel Arboretum is a charming lodging establishment located at 1917 Bladensburg Road Northeast in the heart of Washington, District of Columbia. Nestled in a vibrant neighborhood, this hotel offers a peaceful and relaxing atmosphere for guests to enjoy during their stay. With comfortable rooms, modern amenities, and a friendly staff, Hotel Arboretum provides a welcoming home away from home for travelers exploring the nation's capital. Whether you are visiting for business or leisure, Hotel Arboretum is the perfect choice for your accommodation needs.

Deep Creek Park is a stunning natural oasis located at 437 George Washington Highway South in Chesapeake, Virginia. This park is a popular tourist attraction, offering visitors a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. With lush greenery, tranquil waterways, and a variety of recreational activities, Deep Creek Park is the perfect destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you're looking to go for a peaceful stroll, have a picnic with family and friends, or enjoy some birdwatching, this park has something for everyone to enjoy. Come and experience the beauty and tranquility of Deep Creek Park in Chesapeake, Virginia.

Georgetown Forest STEAM - Nature-based Learning is an innovative institution located in the heart of Washington, D.C. Our focus is on providing hands-on, experiential learning opportunities in science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics (STEAM) through the lens of nature. Our unique approach allows students to connect with the natural world while developing critical thinking skills and a deep appreciation for the environment. Join us at 4400 MacArthur Boulevard Northwest and embark on a journey of discovery and creativity in the beautiful surroundings of Georgetown Forest.

Mundo Verde Bilingual Public Charter School is a unique educational institution located at 30 P Street Northwest in Washington, District of Columbia. As a public charter school, Mundo Verde offers a bilingual curriculum that focuses on sustainability and environmental stewardship. Students at Mundo Verde have the opportunity to learn in both English and Spanish, preparing them for success in a globalized world. With a strong emphasis on hands-on learning and community engagement, Mundo Verde provides a well-rounded education that empowers students to become responsible global citizens.

Rush River Commons Community Cluster is a new community space located at 1 Leggett Lane in Washington, Virginia. This nine-acre site surrounds restored wetlands and aims to foster Rappahannock-grown programs and services. The institution envisions a community center, office space for non-profits, and affordable rental housing, all connected by walkways over the property's wetlands and streams. The Rappahannock Food Pantry will be housed in a new modern facility at essentially no cost. Other potential uses include an entertainment center, amphitheater, outdoor eating and gathering areas, educational facilities, and space for pop-up activities. The goal is to create a facility for the community without burdening the community financially. The proposed plan includes a commercial "community cluster" and a residential cluster, with a plaza area connecting the two. The residential cluster will feature townhome style structures and stacked flats around a central green park space. Rush River Commons aims to create a common ground for the community and make an asset of the site's streams and wetlands.

Mathews Arm Trailhead is located in Rileyville, Virginia, United States, within the stunning Shenandoah National Park. This park, just 75 miles from Washington, D.C., offers a peaceful escape with its cascading waterfalls, breathtaking views, and diverse wildlife. With over 200,000 acres of protected land, visitors can explore and connect with nature. At Mathews Arm Trailhead, visitors can embark on hikes to the summit of Old Rag or learn about the African American experience in Shenandoah National Park through interactive exhibits. Campground reservations for the 2024 season are now being accepted, allowing visitors to plan their stay up to six months in advance.

The Airlie Center Community Garden within the Local Food Project Garden is a hidden gem located at 6809 Airlie Road in Warrenton, Virginia. Situated on over 300 acres of picturesque Northern Virginia countryside, Airlie is a haven of innovation and sustainability. This park offers a unique experience for visitors, whether they are looking to host a romantic wedding or a high-profile summit. With a rich history of environmentalism and a commitment to sustainability dating back to 1959, Airlie is a true champion of the farm-to-table movement. The on-site restaurant, Harry’s, serves up delicious meals made with fresh produce from the Berkshire Farm located on the property.

Gateway Regional Park is a popular tourist attraction located at 2823 Pickett Road in Fairfax, Virginia, United States. This park serves as a rest stop for those enjoying the Washington & Old Dominion Trail and City of Fairfax Connector Trail. Visitors can relax, get directions, and refill their water bottles at this convenient location. The park is open for walking, hiking, and biking from dawn to dusk and offers a pavilion area for shelter. Managed by the W&OD Trail staff and the Friends of the W&OD (FOWOD), Gateway Regional Park aims to support and enhance the trail for recreational, environmental, and historic purposes through various activities and fundraising efforts. The park is a great place for families with kids, featuring a large field, playgrounds, swings, slides, sand play areas, and a skateboarding spot.