Best Places to Get Your Feet Wet Near DC

Netanya Trimboli

Avoid touristy beaches and yucky public pools with these easy to get to, free or low cost places you can submerge in water, all within arm's reach to the nation's capital. These destinations are great for daytrips, especially if you have kids in tow.

Lubber Run Park, Long Branch Nature Center & Park, The Yards Park, Bluemont, Terrapin Nature Park, Mayo Beach, Leesylvania State Park

  • Lubber Run Park in Arlington, United States

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      The best part about this park is that is completely shaded. So for hot summer days, there's no better creek to dip your toes in. There's also easy hikes that go alongside the creek and places to have a picnic.

  • Long Branch Nature Center & Park in Arlington, United States

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      This is a great creek for kids to play in and is next to a nature center. If your kids are feeling adventurous, they can also embark on a mile-long hike to a playground.

  • The Yards Park in Washington, United States

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      Quite possibly the best free, outdoor pool for kids ever, Yards Park features a very large, 2-foot deep pool. With beautiful views of the Potomac and tons of nearby restaurants, it feels like you're on vacation! Parking can be tough, but it's totally worth it.

  • Bluemont in Arlington, United States

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      Bluemont Park is an expansive area with a playground, fields, tennis courts, and more. A creek runs right through it, and on hot days you'll see loads of kids jumping around and enjoying the water.

  • Terrapin Nature Park, United States

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      This beach along the Chesapeake Bay is accessed via Kent Island and involves about a mile hike. It's a thin but long strip of sand and is recommended for shorter beach days. It's perfect if you want to get some exercise and maybe even grab some crabs afterward!

  • Mayo Beach, United States

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      This beach along the Chesapeake Bay feels as expansive as the ocean, but without the harsh waves. This beach has a series of shallow inlets that is perfect for kids. Beware though, the floor under the water can be quite mud-like! There's also a really great playground that helps mix it up.

  • Leesylvania State Park, United States

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      This expansive state park has a small beach along the Potomac River and is about 40 minutes from DC. The river gets so warm in the summer and it's nice and calm and shallow. It's easy to spend the whole day hanging out there, and you can always mix it up with a hike while you're there.