Top 4 National Parks near Washington DC

In this article, I will let you know top 4 national parks near Washington DC. I also added a map of national parks near Washington, D.C., on Google Maps at the end of the article

Top 4 national parks near Washington DC

1. Chesapeake and Ohio Canal National Historical Park ~15 miles (10 minutes drive)
2. Manassas National Battlefield Park ~30 miles (30 minutes drive)
3. Harpers Ferry National Historical Park ~65 miles (1 hour drive)
4. Shenandoah National Park ~70 miles (1 hour 10 minutes drive)

(You can click the image below to see map of national parks near Washington DC in full size)

1. Chesapeake and Ohio Canal National Historical Park

Distance: Approximately 15 miles (Georgetown area)

Highlights:

• Historic canal with 184.5 miles of towpath for hiking, biking, and horseback riding.
• Scenic views of the Potomac River.
• Points of interest like Great Falls and historic locks.

Best Time to Visit:

• Spring: Blooming flowers and pleasant weather.
• Fall: Vibrant foliage and cooler temperatures.

2. Manassas National Battlefield Park

Distance: Approximately 30 miles (Manassas, Virginia)

Highlights:

• Site of the First and Second Battles of Bull Run during the Civil War.
• Historical walking trails and interpretive exhibits.
• Henry Hill Visitor Center with an orientation film and museum.

Best Time to Visit:

• Spring and Fall: Comfortable temperatures and seasonal beauty.
• Summer: Good for reenactments and ranger programs, though it can be hot.

3. Harpers Ferry National Historical Park

Distance: Approximately 65 miles (West Virginia, Maryland, Virginia)

Highlights:

• Historic town at the confluence of the Potomac and Shenandoah Rivers.
• Significant Civil War history and John Brown’s Raid.
• Outdoor activities: hiking, especially along the Appalachian Trail.
• Stunning views from Maryland Heights and Jefferson Rock.

Best Time to Visit:

• Fall: Peak foliage season offers incredible vistas.
• Spring: Mild weather and blooming flowers.

4. Shenandoah National Park

Distance: Approximately 75 miles (Virginia)

Highlights:

• Skyline Drive: A scenic 105-mile route with overlooks and stunning views of the Blue Ridge Mountains.
• Hiking: Over 500 miles of trails, including portions of the Appalachian Trail.
• Waterfalls: Popular spots like Dark Hollow Falls and Whiteoak Canyon.
• Wildlife: Black bears, deer, and numerous bird species.

Best Time to Visit:

• Fall: Peak foliage season, drawing visitors for colorful landscapes.
• Spring and Summer: Ideal for hiking, camping, and wildflower viewing.

Map of national parks near Washington DC on Google maps