Deep within Kenilworth lies an oasis, hidden behind trees and cattails. It's a place where beavers build their homes and turtles sleep on logs. Lotus blooms rise from the muck and lilies sit on the water. The wind dances with the dragonflies, rustling through the trees, carrying the song of the birds until it brushes a
Free — you won’t need your pass here.
Free entry — there is no entrance fee here, so you won’t need your pass to get in.
- Fee type No fee — No fee is charged here.
- HoursOpen daily from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
- Source National Park Service ↗
- Last verifiedJuly 6, 2026 · Confirmed
- Official pagewww.nps.gov ↗
- Contact 771-208-1571 · keaq_visitorservices@nps.gov
The park is located in North East Washington D.C. south of route 50 and just off the Baltimore Washington Parkway. The park is also within the D.C. Kenilworth community and the Anacostia river runs along the park boundary. Interstate 295 runs parallel to the park. The park is within half a mile from
Common questions
Quick Yes / No / Depends answers for Kenilworth Park & Aquatic Gardens — always confirm with the managing site before you go.
No Is there a fee at Kenilworth Park & Aquatic Gardens?
No — it’s free to enter, so you won’t need your pass to get in.
Yes Can you kayak, paddle, or boat here?
Yes — there’s water for boating and paddling at Kenilworth Park & Aquatic Gardens. Hand-launched craft usually need no permit; motorized boats may need registration or a launch fee.
Yes Are there hiking trails?
Yes — trails here include Anacostia Riverwalk Trail, Boardwalk, Ponds Trail, and more. Check length and difficulty before you go.
Depends Can you bring a dog?
Usually only leashed and in developed areas, campgrounds, and paved paths — not on most trails or in buildings. Pet rules vary by park, so check first.
No Are drones allowed?
No — launching, landing, or operating drones is prohibited on National Park Service land.
Yes What are the hours?
Open daily from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
Nearby sites
NPS National Park Service Fort Dupont Park
ConfirmedFree entry — there is no entrance fee here, so you won’t need your pass to get in.
NPS Photo/Miguel Marquez National Park Service Anacostia Park
ConfirmedFree entry — there is no entrance fee here, so you won’t need your pass to get in.
