Oxon Hill Farm | Prince Georges County

Oxon Hill Farm is a living history farm and museum located within Oxon Cove Park in Oxon Hill, Maryland, managed by the National Park Service. It offers visitors a unique opportunity to experience and learn about early 20th-century farm life, combining agricultural heritage with natural and cultural education in a peaceful riverside setting along the Potomac River.

Historical Background

The farm's history dates back to the 19th century when the land served as a plantation. Later, it became part of the St. Elizabeths Hospital grounds, where it functioned as a therapeutic farm for patients. In the 1960s, the National Park Service transformed the property into a children's animal farm, and over the decades, it has evolved into a fully functioning living history farm and educational center. Its mission is to preserve agricultural traditions, demonstrate historic farming techniques, and connect visitors with Maryland’s rural heritage.

Farm Operations and Animal Life

Oxon Hill Farm operates as a working farm where traditional farming methods are practiced and demonstrated. The farm maintains a variety of domesticated animals essential to historic agriculture and rural life, including:

Over 15 breeds of chickens, showcasing heritage poultry varieties.

Goats, used historically for milk and brush clearing.

Cattle breeds reflective of early 20th-century farming.

Horses and mules, which historically powered farm labor before mechanization.

Heritage breed pigs, representing traditional livestock genetics.

The farm staff conducts daily interactive programs such as feeding sessions, animal care demonstrations, and guided tours. These programs offer visitors, especially families and school groups, hands-on experiences and educational insights into animal husbandry, farm chores, and the seasonal rhythms of agricultural life.

Natural Environment and Trails

Surrounding Oxon Hill Farm is Oxon Cove Park, a natural area that includes woodlands, meadows, and wetlands. The park is a significant habitat for wildlife, particularly bird species, making it a popular destination for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts. More than 210 species of birds have been documented in the park, including notable species such as:

Bald Eagles, symbolizing regional conservation success.

Eastern Meadowlarks and Grasshopper Sparrows, grassland birds that benefit from habitat protection.

Northern Harriers, Red-shouldered Hawks, and Red-tailed Hawks, representing raptor diversity.

The park features two primary trails for visitors:

Hiker-Biker Trail: A paved, approximately 2-mile multi-use trail suitable for walking, jogging, and cycling. This trail offers scenic views of the Potomac River and provides access to the cove’s water features.

Woodlot Trail: A shorter, natural surface trail of about half a mile that winds through deciduous upland woods. This trail offers opportunities for birdwatching, plant identification, and quiet nature observation.

Recreational Activities

Fishing: Fishing is allowed in Oxon Cove Park with a valid Maryland fishing license. The cove is known for quality crappie fishing and occasional catches of catfish. The park promotes responsible fishing practices, including catch-and-release, to preserve aquatic ecosystems.

Picnicking and Relaxation: Picnic areas are scattered throughout the park, providing peaceful spots for visitors to enjoy meals amid natural surroundings.

Educational Programs and Community Engagement

Oxon Hill Farm offers a variety of educational programs aimed at connecting visitors to farming traditions, local ecology, and cultural history. Programs include:

Guided farm tours emphasizing historic agricultural techniques and daily farm life.

Junior Ranger programs for children, encouraging interactive learning and stewardship.

Seasonal events highlighting planting, harvest, and holiday traditions.

Nature walks and birdwatching programs focused on the park’s rich biodiversity.

The farm also partners with schools and community groups to provide hands-on agricultural education and environmental awareness opportunities.

Visitor Information

Location: 6411 Oxon Hill Road, Oxon Hill, Maryland, within Oxon Cove Park near the National Harbor area.

Hours: The farm and park are open daily, generally from 9:00 AM to 4:30 PM.

Accessibility: Parking is available onsite. The farm and trails are accessible, though some natural surface trails may be uneven.

Contact: Visitors can reach the farm’s visitor center via phone for information and scheduling programs.

Summary

Oxon Hill Farm serves as a vital cultural and natural resource that preserves Maryland’s rural heritage through a working farm and living history museum. It offers immersive experiences that connect visitors with traditional farming practices, historic animals, and the natural environment of the Potomac River’s shorelines. Through its educational programs, recreational trails, and wildlife habitat, Oxon Hill Farm provides a rich, hands-on learning environment for families, students, and nature lovers seeking to explore agricultural history and enjoy outdoor activities in a serene setting near the Washington, D.C. metropolitan area.