Connect with nature. Move your body. Calm your mind. The parks in Prince George’s offer a space for all three. Whether you’re looking for a place to hike along tree-lined trails, canoe atop glistening waters, or search for birds in the sky, you’ll be able to find it in the region’s best natural spaces. While you’re adventuring in the great outdoors, you can also find a bit of well-earned tranquility and quiet.

 

To bring some calm to your chaos, try exploring one of these six relaxing parks in Prince George’s:

 

  1. At Louise F. Cosca Regional Park, you can stroll along miles of trails, stop at the lake to sit by the water, grab a boat, play tennis or baseball, or enjoy a picnic. Its 690 acres also include pavilions, a tram, and campsites. You can learn more about the region and its natural wonders at the Clearwater Nature Center. Despite these options, much of the landscape remains undeveloped.

  2. Take a moment to enjoy the water at the Bladensburg Waterfront Park. There, you can rent canoes and kayaks and head out for an aquatic adventure. If you’d rather stay on land, you can stroll along the riverside trail. Look out for wildlife while you walk. The park is located along the Star-Spangled Banner National Historic Trail, recognized for its significance to the War of 1812.

  3. In Upper Marlboro’s Watkins Regional Park, you can walk along the tree-lined paths, pitch a tent to camp, watch the farm animals, and more. This is also a great spot to relax with the kids, with plenty of options for the little ones. They can play on the playgrounds, hop on the carousel, ride the miniature train, and play miniature golf — all while you enjoy a bit of calm. Expand your natural knowledge or join a nature-focused program at the Watkins Nature Center.

  4. If you’re looking for a quiet place to hike, canoe, or walk your dog, Lake Artemesia Natural Area just might be your spot. The hustle of College Park surrounds the area, but its natural landscapes offer a peaceful place to relax. Look out for turtles, fish, and wildlife as you stroll. The 38-acre lake is a fantastic spot for birding, and the paved Luther Goldman Birding Trail loops around the water.

  5. When it comes to freshwater swamp exploration, there’s nothing like Cedarville State Forest in Brandywine. The forest covers 3,707 acres and is home to over 50 tree species. Scientists, biologists, foresters, and rangers have been working to protect this natural space, and you can visit it to enjoy their efforts. The landscape is open to hikers, bikers, and equestrians. 

  6. There are nine miles of trails in Greenbelt Park, where visitors can take the 5.3-mile Perimeter Trail from the park entrance or the 1.2-mile Azalea Trail from Sweetgum Picnic Area. Pets are welcome, but they must remain on a leash. If you decide to camp at the park, you can enjoy an evening campfire program under the stars. The urban oasis offers respite from the city's chaos.


 

Find more outdoor adventures along one of these top trails in Prince George’s.