Haven’t you heard that Rock Creek Park is a true oasis in Washington D.C.? This 1754-acre park offers a peaceful refuge from the city. Rock Creek Park was authorized in 1890. It became the third national park designated by the federal government.
More than two million people visit Rock Creek Park each year. They enjoy recreation facilities like the golf course. There are also hiking, biking, and equestrian trails. You can find a tennis center, nature center, playgrounds, and picnic spots.
President Benjamin Harrison signed the Act of Congress establishing Rock Creek Park into law. This happened on September 27, 1890. It followed advocacy by Charles C. Glover and other civic leaders. The creation of the National Zoo the preceding year also helped.
Rock Creek Park was only the third national park established by the U.S.. Yellowstone was first in 1872. Mackinac National Park followed in 1875. Sequoia was created at the same time as Rock Creek Park. Yosemite came shortly after. In 1933, Rock Creek Park became part of the National Capital Parks unit. This unit is within the National Park Service.
The Rock Creek Park Act authorized the purchase of no more than 2000 acres of land. This land extends north from Klingle Ford Bridge. This is approximately the northern limit of the National Zoo. The land was to be perpetually dedicated as a public park. It would be a pleasure ground for the benefit and enjoyment of the people of the United States. The Act also called for regulations. These regulations would preserve all timber, animals, or curiosities within the park. They should be retained in their natural condition, as nearly as possible. Rock Creek Park is the oldest natural urban park in the National Park System. Park construction began in 1897.
In 1913, Congress authorized creation of the Rock Creek and Potomac Parkway. This extended Rock Creek Park along a narrow corridor. It runs from the zoo to the mouth of Rock Creek at the Potomac River. The parkway remains a major traffic thoroughfare. This is especially true along the portion south of the zoo.
The park’s golf course opened with nine holes in 1923. William Flynn designed it. It expanded to 18 holes three years later. Like the rest of the city’s public courses, it was segregated until 1941. U.S. Secretary of the Interior Harold Ickes ordered them all opened to African Americans.
Peirce Mill is a water-powered grist mill in Rock Creek Park. There were at least eight mills along Rock Creek. These were within what is now Washington D.C.. Many more were farther upstream in Montgomery County, Maryland. Of those eight, only Peirce Mill is still standing. Isaac Peirce built it in the 1820s. He also built a house, barn, and other buildings.
Rock Creek Park also maintains cultural exhibits. These include the Peirce Mill. The Rock Creek is a popular venue for jogging and cycling. People also enjoy inline skating. Beach Drive is especially popular. Portions of it are closed to vehicles on weekends.
Rock Creek Park’s trails offer something for everyone. Paved trails are mostly flat. Bikers, runners, and hikers can travel a great distance. They can escape from the urban environment.
Rock Creek Park is more than just a park. It’s a historic landmark. It is a natural escape. It is a place for recreation and learning. It is a gem in the heart of Washington D.C..