Greenbelt Park

Greenbelt Park is a nature reserve near Washington with roughly 1,176 acres of forest containing pine, oak, and maple trees. The Baltimore-Washington Parkway runs north to south through the property, dividing the woodland into sections.

The National Park Service established this park in 1950 as part of a green belt project designed to surround the growing city. The creation aimed to provide natural areas around the expanding metropolitan region.

The Junior Ranger program here introduces children to nature through hands-on activities and rewards them with badges. This approach helps young people develop a connection to forest protection and outdoor learning.

The park provides 172 camping sites with showers and restrooms, as well as three designated picnic areas for day visitors. About 9 miles of marked trails allow you to explore the woods at your own pace depending on your time and fitness level.

Located just 10 miles from downtown Washington, the park maintains strict quiet hours between 10 PM and 6 AM to protect the serenity of the space. This rule preserves the natural soundscape for both campers and wildlife.

Location: Greenbelt

Inception: 1950

Operator: National Park Service

Part of: National Capital Parks-East

Address: 6565 Greenbelt Rd, Greenbelt, MD 20770

Phone: +13013443944

Website: https://nps.gov/gree

GPS coordinates: 38.98333,-76.89778

Latest update: December 6, 2025 17:41