The park houses the 'Old Maryland Farm,' which functions as a teaching facility for rural heritage and livestock care.
The park features an outdoor, Wizard of Oz-themed playground with distinct structures based on the book's characters.
The carousel is a historic, hand-carved model that has been a long-standing feature of the park's entertainment offerings.
The Watkins Nature Center contains a collection of live native Maryland wildlife, including barred owls and various snake species.
The park includes specialized 'acorn' trails designed for younger children to explore forest ecology.
Watkins Regional Park is a 430-acre facility located in Upper Marlboro, Maryland, managed by the Prince George's County Department of Parks and Recreation. The park features the Old Maryland Farm, which provides visitors with agricultural education and interactions with farm animals. Its centerpiece is the Watkins Nature Center, showcasing native reptiles, amphibians, and birds of prey in indoor and outdoor habitats. Recreational amenities include the Watkins Regional Park Carousel, a historic attraction operating seasonally. The park provides extensive athletic facilities, including baseball diamonds, tennis courts, and multi-purpose fields. A dedicated miniature golf course is available on the property. Visitors have access to a network of paved and natural surface trails suitable for walking and light cycling. The park also features a large, themed playground known as Wizard of Oz-themed play area. The site is part of the larger Prince George's County park system, emphasizing community-based outdoor engagement.
The iconic yellow-brick road entrance leading into the Wizard of Oz-themed playground.
Check the Nature Center schedule before arriving, as specific animal feeding demonstrations occur throughout the day.
Visit the Wizard of Oz playground early in the morning to avoid high heat and peak crowd volume during weekends.
Bring bug spray if you plan to explore the wooded trail segments during warmer months.
Assuming all park features operate year-round; the carousel and train are seasonal attractions that close during winter months.
Carousel and miniature train operations are seasonal and typically closed during the winter months.
Leashed pets are allowed on trails, but strictly prohibited inside the Nature Center and farm animal areas.
