Oxon Run Park

Oxon Run Park is one of the largest public parks in Washington, D.C., encompassing 126 acres in the city's Ward 8 neighborhood. The park stretches for approximately 3 miles along Oxon Run, a stream that flows into the Potomac River.

The park features both natural and landscaped areas. On the eastern side is a pristine upland forest of beech trees and mountain laurel, as well as a rare magnolia bog ecosystem. The western portion contains more developed recreational facilities and open green spaces. A recently rebuilt bike trail runs through the park.

Oxon Run Park provides important green space and recreational opportunities for the surrounding communities of Congress Heights, Shipley Terrace, and Washington Highlands. The park connects to the Maryland state line at its southern end.

The park's natural areas support diverse wildlife habitats, from dry forested slopes to open meadows to wet riparian forest. This provides habitat for many bird species as well as mammals like deer, foxes and squirrels. The stream itself features winding channels, sandbars, islands and deep pools.

In recent years, community organizations like Friends of Oxon Run Park have worked to activate the park with programming and events. The park serves as an important natural refuge and gathering space for residents in an urban area.