The weather is warm and the sun is shining. Get some fresh air and catch some vitamin D while checking out one of these parks with creeks and rivers for some splashing fun with your whole gang. Pack up a picnic blanket, sunblock and towels for a fun day in the great outdoors.
Editor’s note: Due to COVID-19 regulations, park access and closures are subject to change. Check park websites for updates before planning your visit.
Catoctin Creek Park & Nature Center
Take a leisurely hike down to Pebble Beach, and get ready to do some old fashioned creek stomping. Stop by a shade-drenched picnic table for a quick snack on your way down to the water. When your kiddos are all splashed out, head over to the musical instrument garden and play a few tunes.
2929 Sumantown Rd.
Middletown, MD 21769
Online: recreater.com
Elizabeth Mills Riverfront Park
Just try and keep your little ones from climbing the rocks sprawled across this riverfront locale. Or don't, because this wading area is fun for all ages. Don't be put off by the stroll through the golf course. It is worth the walk to enjoy some time in the chilly river water.
44105 Heron Way
Lansdowne, VA 20176
Online: loudoun.gov
Blue Ridge Center for Environmental Stewardship
Step back in time as you step into a flowing stream. Take the Farmstead Loop, the center's signature hiking trail. Just over a mile long, the path is perfect for the whole family. Once a road through a 19th-century farming community, this scenic trail passes by multiple historic structures, Wortman Pond (great for splashing), and Piney Run.
11661 Harpers Ferry Rd.
Purcellville, VA 20132
Online: blueridgecenter.org
C&O Canal Towpath
What is the towpath, exactly? The towpath is the dirt and stone path that runs 184.5 miles along the C&O Canal, where families can walk, run, or bike the distance between Georgetown and Cumberland, MD, but we prefer the stop in Point of Rocks, MD. The Potomac River's view is beautiful, so beautiful that you won't be able to resist a little toe-dipping.
Point of Rocks, MD
Online: nps.gov
Terrapin Nature Area
You won't want to miss these spectacular views of the Chesapeake Bay Bridge and some prime splashing on the sandy beaches. This award-winning 276-acre nature park features a 3.25-mile oyster chaff walking trail that meanders through wildflower meadows, wetlands, tidal ponds and woodlands. Keep an eye out for lots of creatures and critters too.
191 Log Canoe Circle
Stevensville, MD 21666
Online: qac.org
Potomac Heritage Trail
About a mile in, you'll discover an awesome pool and little waterfall perfect for some afternoon water fun. Enjoy a few creek crossings along the way too. This is a great option when you don't want to travel too far out of the city.
The Mouth of Pimmit Run & Pimmit Run
and Chain Bridge Historical Makers
McLean, VA
Online: nps.gov
Worth the Drive: Cool Spring Preserve
Consider crossing state lines for this one because it is worth the extra miles. The crystal clear creek isn't the main attraction here. Your little ones will be all about the natural playspace before the splashing begins. Head to the stream to cool off after some tree stump and spider web rope climbing.
1469 Lloyd Rd
Charles Town, WV 25414
Online: potomacaudubon.org
—Meghan Yudes Meyers, Angelica Kajiwara and Nella DuBon-Koch
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