Ten Tips for Visiting Piscataway Park

The burial site of Chief Turkey Tayac (NPS/CLaBarge)

Planning a visit to the beautiful Piscataway Park? Plan like a Park Ranger by following these ten tips and make your visit memorable.

1. Be respectful

The land that makes up Piscataway Park is the traditional homeland of the Piscataway native peoples. The Accokeek Creek trail takes you past the site of a large and extremely important village and burial ground. You will also see the gravesite of cherished Chief Turkey Tayac next to a sacred Cedar tree. The Piscataway Indian Nation and the Piscataway Conoy Tribe continue to use the space for tribal gatherings and ceremonies. Please, be respectful of the history of this site and its ongoing use by indigenous peoples.

2. Come early

Piscataway Park opens at sunrise every day. Not only will the park be less crowded at this time, but most animals are more active in the early mornings. During the summer months, coming early is a great way to avoid the heat.

4. Visit National Colonial Farm

National Colonial Farm, run by our partner organization the Accokeek Foundation, should be part of any visit to Piscataway Park. View some of their many heritage breed farm animals or learn about colonial farming practices. Check their schedule to see if they are offering any programs on the day of your visit.

5. Choose your trail

Piscataway Park has great hiking trails to choose from. Pick from one of the seven short trails at National Colonial Farm or visit the Accokeek Creek Boardwalk.

5. Pack a picnic

Come in the morning and pack a picnic lunch. Take advantage of one of the picnic tables at National Colonial Farm or Accokeek Creek or just find a nice patch of grass to lay down a blanket. Eat, relax, and take it all in. Remember to pick up all of your trash!

The fishing pier at National Colonial Farm (NPS/Terry Adams)

6. Bring your fishing pole

Piscataway Park is full of fantastic fishing spots. These include National Colonial Farm’s fishing pier, the Accokeek Creek Boardwalk, and Farmington Landing. Bring your pole and tackle box and make sure to read up on Maryland’s fishing regulations.

7. View Mount Vernon

Did you know that this park was created to preserve the viewshed of Mount Vernon, George Washington’s home? There are many places in the park to get a great view of the first President’s home.

8. Come prepared

Make sure to pack plenty of water, bugspray, and sunscreen. Check the weather before you leave the house and dress accordingly.

9. Bring along your furry best friend

Bring your dogs along on your visit. Just remember to follow the BARK Rules.

10. Where to launch boats

Do you plan to set out on the water during your visit? Launch small watercraft from Farmington Landing, Accokeek Creek, or National Colonial Farm’s boat dock. Larger boats can launch from the public boat ramps at Marshall Hall or Fort Washington Marina.

Where this belongs

• National Capital Parks-East
• Piscataway Park
• Potomac Heritage National Scenic Trail

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