Great Falls Park

At Great Falls, the Potomac River builds up speed and force as it falls over a series of steep, jagged rocks and flows through the narrow Mather Gorge. The Patowmack Canal offers a glimpse into the early history of this country. Great Falls Park has many opportunities to explore history and nature, all in a beautiful 800-acre park only 15 miles from the Nation's Capital.

Great Falls

The Potomac River rushes down the Great Falls on the Virginia-Maryland border.

Campsite B-12

RecAreaDirections

From I-495, take exit 44 for route 193 west; continue 4 miles. Turn right on Old Dominion Drive.

Open with Google Map

Misc

Stay Limit
Reservable	false
Keywords
Map Link
Contact Phone
Contact Email

Permits info

Facilities

Great Falls Park Visitor Center Facility

The Visitor Center is open daily. A ten minute video presentation on the history of Great Falls Park is shown throughout the day. Check with the Visitor Center desk for schedules, or to request a presentation. Stop by the Visitor Center desk for trail maps, the self-guided tour of the Patowmack Canal, local information, pamplets on nearby parks, and information on recreational activities. Volunteers and Rangers will be on hand to answer questions.