National Capital Parks-East

Get away from overcrowded Washington D.C. monuments and visit these lesser-known, yet equally important spots. This park system includes 13 sites, covering more than 8,000 acres of parklands from Capitol Hill to the Maryland suburbs. Visitors to the area will find a wide range of activities. Milk cows and feed chickens at Oxon Hill Farm. Visit famous forts that were built to defend Washington, D.C. Or learn an important history lesson and stop by the home of abolitionist Frederick Douglass.

One standout among the parks is the Kenilworth Park and Aquatic Gardens. Back in 1938, thirty acres of land was purchased along the Anacostia River to preserve Walter Shaw's aquatic gardens and the surrounding marshland. Visitors can stroll the grounds and enjoy garden paths that lead to 44 unique ponds. From here you can link up with the Anacostia River Trail, a paved path that is open to both hikers and bikers.

Since most of these parks are small, you'll have no problem hitting up several in one day. But why rush through an area that has so much history to absorb? Check out public and private campground listings on Hipcamp and stay in the area for more adventures!