Watkins Regional Park | Prince Georges County

Watkins Regional Park, located in Upper Marlboro, Maryland, spans nearly 800 acres and is one of Prince George’s County’s premier recreational destinations. It offers a combination of family attractions, nature exploration, educational exhibits, sports facilities, and seasonal events, making it suitable for all age groups and interests. The park is managed by the Maryland-National Capital Park and Planning Commission (M-NCPPC).

General Layout and Atmosphere

Watkins Regional Park is thoughtfully designed with separate zones for various types of activities-active recreation, passive nature exploration, children’s entertainment, and organized events. The landscape includes woodlands, meadows, paved trails, picnic groves, open fields, gardens, and animal enclosures. The park is open year-round from dawn until dusk, with specific amenities and attractions operating on seasonal schedules.

Family and Children’s Attractions

Wizard of Oz Playground

This signature, story-themed playground is one of the most imaginative in the region. Inspired by The Wonderful Wizard of Oz, the playground recreates scenes from the book:

Yellow Brick Road: A winding trail through various play structures.

Kansas Farm: Featuring farm-themed climbing equipment and shaded seating for parents.

Emerald City: Colorful, castle-like towers with rope bridges and slides.

Poppy Fields & Ruby Slippers: Bright play areas with sensory and motion-friendly features.
The playground is inclusive, ADA-compliant, and includes interactive panels that support early literacy and motor development.

Wonderland Rides

Historic Dentzel Carousel: A beautifully restored carousel built in the late 19th century. It includes hand-carved wooden animals and classic organ music. Open seasonally.

Miniature Train Ride: A C.P. Huntington-style train that winds through scenic areas of the park, suitable for all ages. Also open seasonally.
These rides operate from spring to fall and require small ride fees.

Miniature Golf Course

An 18-hole, outdoor mini-golf course is nestled under trees for shaded play. Each hole is creatively designed to offer challenges suitable for kids and adults alike.

Nature and Environmental Features

Watkins Nature Center

A central educational facility within the park, the Nature Center features:

Live animals such as turtles, snakes, frogs, owls, and hawks.

Interactive exhibits on ecosystems, wildlife habitats, and conservation.

Butterfly garden, birdwatching areas, and native plant gardens.

Hands-on programs including nature hikes, puppet shows, animal encounters, and seasonal learning events like Earth Day activities.
It serves both drop-in visitors and scheduled school groups.

Old Maryland Farm

This working demonstration farm is free to visit and provides up-close views of livestock such as:

Horses, goats, sheep, pigs, cows, chickens, turkeys, and llamas.
Visitors can learn about farm life, feed certain animals with staff supervision, and attend seasonal events such as farm demonstrations and hayrides.

Sports and Recreation Facilities

Watkins Regional Park is well-equipped for athletic and casual recreation:

Lighted softball, baseball, and soccer fields for leagues and community use.

Basketball courts and outdoor sports spaces for pickup games and clinics.

Indoor Tennis Bubble: A covered facility with climate control for year-round tennis play.

Paved and natural-surface trails for walking, jogging, biking, and wildlife observation. Trails range in length and difficulty and traverse wooded areas, meadows, and streams.

Camping and Group Activities

The park offers primitive tent camping sites available from March through November:

30 individual sites and 3 group sites, each with fire rings and access to bathhouses.

Comfort stations with toilets and showers.

Campsites require reservations through the Parks Direct system and are used by scouts, school groups, and families seeking rustic outdoor experiences.

Picnic Areas and Rentals

Multiple shaded picnic groves, open grass fields, and reservable pavilions.

Shelters include tables, grills, and trash disposal units, making them ideal for birthday parties, reunions, or corporate picnics.

Restroom facilities and water fountains are nearby most picnic areas.

Events and Seasonal Programs

Watkins Regional Park is the site of several beloved annual events:

Kinderfest: A free children’s festival held each fall with music, crafts, games, and entertainment.

Festival of Lights: A drive-through winter event featuring holiday-themed light displays throughout the park’s roadways.

Nature-themed festivals and community days are held throughout the year, offering crafts, educational booths, performances, and food vendors.

Accessibility and Amenities

ADA-compliant facilities including restrooms, paved paths, accessible playground areas, and parking spaces.

On-site ranger station, administrative offices, and visitor information desks.

Park rangers offer guided walks, nature talks, and enforce park rules for a safe experience.

Free general admission, though some rides and programs have small fees for residents and non-residents.

Summary

Watkins Regional Park is one of Maryland’s most comprehensive urban parks, blending natural beauty with educational and recreational value. Its Wizard of Oz playground, working farm, nature center, carousel, and train rides make it especially attractive to families with children. For outdoor enthusiasts, the walking trails, sports fields, and camping facilities provide varied ways to connect with nature and community. It is a year-round destination where visitors can relax, learn, play, and celebrate all in one vibrant setting.