Barnard Hill Park

A Slice of History on the District's Edge

Located in the Woodridge neighborhood of Washington, D.C., Barnard Hill Park offers 21.82 acres of urban greenery that might not be on every tourist's radar. The National Park Service manages this peaceful retreat as part of Rock Creek Park, but it sits separately from the main parkland.

Straddling the D.C.-Maryland border, this park creates the eastern endpoint of a green corridor that extends from Fort Totten Park. Back in 1930, the National Capital Park Commission acquired the land under the Capper-Cramton Act, preserving this natural space for generations to come.

Named for a Civil War Hero

The park bears the name of Brigadier General John G. Barnard, who oversaw the construction of protective forts around Washington during the Civil War - a small tribute to a man who helped keep the capital secure during America's most divisive conflict.

What You'll Find There

If you're looking to escape the city's hustle without actually leaving it, Barnard Hill Park delivers with its blend of open meadows and wooded sections. A trail winds up a forested ridge to the summit, where you'll discover secluded picnic spots excellent for a peaceful afternoon outdoors.

Sports enthusiasts will appreciate the baseball diamond and basketball courts tucked into the southeast corner. For families with little ones, there's also a playground where kids can burn off energy while parents relax nearby.

Getting There and Getting Comfortable

You can find street parking available near the park entrance, making it relatively easy to visit. When nature calls, portable toilets are available on-site - nothing fancy, but they get the job done.

The generous picnic areas can handle everything from intimate family lunches to larger community gatherings, making this a versatile venue for outdoor socializing.

Why Locals Love It

For residents of both D.C. and neighboring Maryland communities, Barnard Hill Park represents a quiet retreat from urban life. It's the kind of place where you can breathe a little deeper and move a little slower.

The park has become especially popular with dog owners, who appreciate having a green space where they can stroll with their four-legged friends. It's this simple accessibility and natural charm that has cemented Barnard Hill's status as a cherished neighborhood resource - not spectacular or showy, just genuinely pleasant in the way that the best local parks often are.