Family outings are all the more fun when the kids can roam and play. Prince George’s parks are the perfect spot to bring the whole crew, with their playgrounds, ponds, sports fields, and more. When you visit these green spaces, you can explore the natural wonders of the region in a way that feels joyful and playful.

 

Visit one of these 10 local parks with the kids:

 

  1. Venture into the enchanted forest at 504-acre  Walker Mill Regional Park in District Heights — without ever having to leave the playground. The Woodland Wonderland playground has a giant treehouse-like structure with a big slide, rocks for climbing, and tiny animal figures. You’ll also find picnic tables, walking trails, a skate park, and sports fields. On hot days, the park turns on a splash pad for cooling off — just check to make sure it’s on before getting the kids’ hopes up. 

 

  1. Get out on the water at Lake Artemesia Natural Area in College Park. You can rent a kayak and experience the lake from its center or bring your fishing poles to catch fish from the pier. This is also a fantastic spot for bird watching, trail running, and dog walking. Once you’ve had your fill, you can pop over to the nearby town for an easy family-friendly lunch.

 

  1. It’s truly a choose-your-own-adventure at Whitemarsh Park in Bowie. You can walk the 1.5 miles of improved trails, some of which are accessible by wheelchair and bicycle. You can play at some of the lighted ballfields, enjoy a picnic, or play at the playground. Your family can also pack for s’mores at the campfire circle on site. There’s fun for everyone at this family-friendly park.

 

  1. Embrace the whimsy at Watkins Regional Park in Upper Marlboro. The Wizard of Oz playground on site includes a yellow brick road, Dorothy’s house, a climbing castle straight out of Emerald City, and a poppy-themed swingset. If you venture beyond the playground, you’ll find a miniature golf course, a kid-friendly train ride, a colorful carousel, and animals to see at the Watkins Nature Center. 

 

  1. Let the kids slide down the tongue of a dragon at the Medieval Dragon playground at the South Bowie Community Center. Climb up the castle to play make-believe above the ground and swing through the ropes and bars. While you’re there, you can pop into the community center and enjoy its basketball courts, fitness facility, and gymnasium.

 

  1. Cool down at the Glenn Dale Splash Park, open on summer weekends. The park is home to a spread of water features, including sprays, lily pads, slides, and a pool. There are also picnic tables so you can step out of the water for lunch or snack. Be sure to check the schedule ahead of time.

 

  1. Take the family to Jug Bay Natural Area, where you can truly surround yourselves with the natural wonders of the region. In this Upper Marlboro park, you can walk the boardwalk over the marshes, pitch a tent and spend the night, or bring a canoe for a day out on the river. The 1,500 acres of protected land are home to many creatures, including rails, egrets, herons, salamanders, and eastern box turtles. The kids will love to search for the animals as they stroll, paddle, and camp.

 

  1. Visit the Tucker Road Athletic Complex in Oxon Hill. The community center has barbeques and picnic tables for a meal outside, a playground, a craft room, basketball courts, and courts for pickleball and racquetball. Check the events calendar and class lists for family-friendly activities at the space. While you’re there, hop onto the Henson Creek Trail, a paved and flat route that winds along a wooded route. 

 

  1. The North Barnaby Splash Park in Oxon Hill has something for all ages. The space includes a 25-meter pool, a wading pool, water slides, a climbing wall, and splash zones. There’s even a small dedicated area for the smallest children with its own water-spraying whale. You’ll also find lockers, picnic tables, and playground equipment at the park.

 

  1. The 85-acre multi-use Allen Pond Park is filled to the brim with family-friendly activities. There’s an ice skating rink, amphitheater, skate park, pond, and a stocked pond for fishing. There’s also a playground and picnic facilities, both great for a quick adventure. Check out the park’s many events and festivals.

 

Want to take your kids for a hike? Plan for one of these beautiful Prince George’s paths.