The best family-friendly hikes and walks in Prince George County
4.5
(41)
80
hikers
9
hikes
Family friendly hiking trails in Prince George County traverse a landscape characterized by riverfronts, lakes, and extensive woodlands. The region features significant rivers such as the Patuxent and Anacostia, offering scenic views and riverside paths. Gently rolling hills and valleys are prominent, particularly along the major waterways. These diverse environments provide varied terrain for outdoor activities.
Best family friendly hiking trails in Prince George County
- The most popular family friendly hiking route is Hiking loop from Petersburg National Battlefield Park…
Last updated: July 8, 2026
5.0
(1)
1
hikers
5.07km
01:18
20m
30m
The Encampment Loop Trail offers a gentle 3.2-mile (5.1 km) hike through a peaceful, wooded landscape, with only 73 feet (22 metres) of elevation gain and an estimated duration of…
4.9
(16)
24
hikers
7.88km
01:59
10m
10m
Hike the easy 4.9-mile Dutch Gap Trail through wetlands and forests, featuring river views, a barge graveyard, and abundant wildlife.
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4.9
(16)
22
hikers
7.57km
01:54
10m
10m
Hike the easy 4.7-mile Dutch Gap Trail through tidal wetlands and forests, offering great birdwatching and views of the James River.
5.0
(1)
7
hikers
6.60km
01:42
30m
30m
The Battlefield Loop offers a unique blend of gentle outdoor activity and profound historical immersion. This easy 4.1-mile (6.6 km) hiking route, with its minimal 109 feet (33 metres) of…
6
hikers
10.0km
02:36
60m
60m
This moderate 6.2-mile (10.0 km) hiking loop through Petersburg National Battlefield Park offers a unique blend of natural beauty and profound historical significance. You'll traverse varied terrain, from peaceful wooded…
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Tips from the Community
Petersburg National Battlefield Park is the site of an important battle in the American Civil War. There is a visitor's center and multiple exhibitions on the site for visitors to learn more about the battle site.
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The Citie of Henricus was the second English settlement in North America after Jamestown. A living history museum is at the site now, for which there is an admission fee. Some period-accurate buildings have been reconstructed and there are educational programs.
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Nearby is a collection of wrecked boats known as the Barge Graveyard. These barges and tugboats were used to harvest and transport sand and gravel, which was mined by private companies from the 1920s to the 1960s. Many of these abandoned boats have morphed into small islands. They are best viewed up close by canoe or kayak, but may also be glimpsed from land.
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This is a good location from which to view wildlife such as muskrats, beavers, and many varieties of birds. Great blue herons are particularly common since they have a rookery on the property.
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South of Richmond is the Dutch Gap Conservation Area. Here you can take a beautiful hike along the marine lagoon of the James River. You can see marshes filled with birds of all species.
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At the Visitor Center of the Petersburg National Battlefield you can visit the Battery 5 of the former defense ring. Other stations like trenches, forts or "the Crater" are usually visited by car. The last one is particularly impressive. Union soldiers dug a mine over 500 feet to below the Confederate lines and successfully exploded it. They did not use the gap to break through, but marveled at the huge crater.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many family-friendly hiking trails are available in Prince George's County?
Prince George's County offers a selection of 9 family-friendly hiking routes, with 8 rated as easy and 1 as moderate, ensuring options for various family skill levels.
What kind of landscapes can we expect on family hikes in Prince George's County?
You'll discover a diverse range of natural beauty, from scenic riverfronts along the Patuxent and Anacostia Rivers to tranquil lakes like Lake Artemesia and extensive woodlands. Many trails feature gently rolling hills, offering varied and engaging scenery for families.
Are there any easy loop trails suitable for families with young children?
Yes, several parks offer easy loop trails perfect for families. For example, the Encampment Loop Trail is an easy 5 km route with minimal elevation gain. Lake Artemesia also features a popular, accessible loop trail ideal for leisurely family walks.
What do other hikers say about the family-friendly trails in Prince George's County?
The komoot community highly rates the family-friendly trails in Prince George's County, with an average score of 4.5 stars from 41 reviews. Hikers often praise the well-maintained paths, the peaceful wooded areas, and the accessibility for all ages.
Are there any trails that offer historical points of interest for families?
Yes, some trails in the region pass through areas with historical significance. The Battlefield Loop, for instance, offers an easy 6.5 km walk through a historic landscape, providing an opportunity to combine nature with learning.
Which parks are best for families looking for nature centers or educational opportunities?
Watkins Regional Park is an excellent choice, featuring the Watkins Nature Center. Cosca Regional Park also hosts the Clearwater Nature Center, both offering educational displays about local wildlife and vegetation, making them great stops for curious kids.
Are there any trails that are particularly good for wildlife viewing?
Many of the wooded areas and riverine environments in Prince George's County are rich in wildlife. Parks like Patuxent River Park and Fairland Regional Park, with their extensive natural surface trails through forests, provide excellent opportunities for spotting local birds and other animals.
What is a good moderate option for families with older children or more hiking experience?
For families seeking a slightly longer and more challenging hike, the Hiking loop from Petersburg National Battlefield Park is a moderate 10 km route with a bit more elevation gain, offering a rewarding experience.
Are there any paved or barrier-free trails suitable for strollers or wheelchairs?
Yes, the Anacostia River Trail System offers flat, barrier-free trails that wind through various natural settings. Bladensburg Waterfront Park also provides paved paths along the Anacostia River, making them accessible options for strollers and wheelchairs.
Can we find trails that follow rivers or lakes?
Absolutely. The county is known for its beautiful riverine environments. You can enjoy trails along the Patuxent River in Patuxent River Park, or explore paths near Lake Artemesia and Greenbelt Lake, offering picturesque water views.
What are some of the longer, easy trails for families wanting to spend more time outdoors?
For families looking for a longer, yet still easy, adventure, the Dutch Gap Trail offers an easy 7.8 km route, allowing for an extended walk through nature without significant difficulty.
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