Matthew Henson State Park

Named after the legendary Arctic explorer Matthew Henson — the first person to reach the North Pole alongside Robert Peary in 1909 — this 100-acre state park in Montgomery County offers a surprising pocket of wilderness just minutes from suburban Maryland. It’s a favorite among local hikers, trail runners, and families looking for a quick nature escape without the long drive.

The park’s trail system winds through mature hardwood forest along the banks of Turkey Branch, a tributary of the Northwest Branch of the Anacostia River. The terrain is hilly enough to give your legs a workout but manageable for most fitness levels. Mountain bikers share several of the trails, so expect some friendly trail traffic on weekends. Birdwatchers will appreciate the canopy habitat, particularly during spring and fall migration when warblers and thrushes pass through.

There’s no camping at Matthew Henson, and you won’t find picnic pavilions or extensive facilities here — this is a trail-focused park through and through. That simplicity is part of its charm. You’ll find a parking area, trail signage, and not much else competing with the forest.

Spring is arguably the best time to visit, when wildflowers carpet the forest floor and the creek runs full. Fall foliage makes October visits equally rewarding. Summer can be humid under the canopy, but the shade keeps temperatures tolerable.

If you’re in the D.C. metro area and craving a quick dose of green space, Matthew Henson State Park delivers without pretense.

Explore Nearby

• Maryland State Highway Administration (MDSHA) — Scenic Byway in Maryland
• George Washington Memorial Parkway — Scenic Byway in Virginia
• Jones Point Light — Lighthouse in Virginia
• Fort Washington Light — Lighthouse in Maryland
• Meadowood Special Recreation Management Area — Public Land in Virginia