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Watkins Nature Center

301 Watkins Park Drive
Upper Marlboro, MD 20774
301-218-6702; TTY 301-699-2544

Hours of Operation

Monday-Saturday: 8:30 am-5 pm
Sundays & Holidays: 11 am-4 pm

watkins nc outdoorWatkins Nature Center offers something for everyone. Live animal displays include native owls, hawks, reptiles, amphibians, and insects. The Discovery Cottage gives children the chance to explore the life of a naturalist. Indoor and outdoor ponds, a songbird feeding area, and a squirrel gym that showcases tricks and eating corn on the run entertain visitors. For information on school and family programs, please call 301-218-6702, TTY 301-699-2544.


Teachers, view our curriculum based programs designed specially for elementary school groups.

Location/Directions

Located in Upper Marlboro, Maryland, in Watkins Regional Park, one mile west of the Six Flags America amusement park.

From the Capital Beltway (I-495), take Exit 15A (Central Avenue) east. Continue for approximately three miles. Turn right onto Watkins Park Drive (Route 193) and follow the park signs to the facility.

From Route 301, turn onto Central Avenue (Route 214) west. Continue for approximately three miles (past Six Flags America). Turn left onto Watkins Park Drive and follow to the park entrance on the right.

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Join us next year to celebrate the 30th Anniversary of Kinderfest!
Sunday, October 3