Rock Creek Regional Park
Parkland with multiple hiking trails & lakeshore wildlife-watching, plus playgrounds & boat rentals.
Rock Creek Regional Park is rated 4.7 / 5 from 2,258 Google reviews and sits about 2.6 km (33 min walk) from Shady Grove station.
General overview
About Rock Creek Regional Park
Rock Creek Regional Park is a large Montgomery Parks property in Derwood, Maryland, centered on Lake Needwood and Lake Frank. It offers trails, boating, fishing, picnicking, playgrounds, nature programs, and access to the Meadowside Nature Center. The information below is based on general training knowledge and has not been live-verified.
- Lake Needwood and Lake Frank
- Hiking, walking, and nature trails
- Meadowside Nature Center
- Canoe, kayak, and rowboat opportunities at Lake Needwood
- Picnic areas, shelters, playgrounds, and open parkland
- Fishing with the appropriate Maryland license
- Connections to the Rock Creek Trail system
Things to do here
Lake Needwood recreation
Enjoy views of the reservoir, shoreline walks, picnicking, and seasonal boating opportunities. Boat rentals and water access may be operated seasonally.
Hiking and walking
Explore wooded and lakeside trails, including routes connected with the broader Rock Creek Trail network. Trail conditions and difficulty vary.
Meadowside Nature Center
A nature center within the park area with environmental exhibits, live-animal displays or educational programming, and programs for families and children. Operating hours may differ from the park grounds.
Fishing
Fishing is available in designated waters, subject to Maryland fishing regulations and any posted park rules. A Maryland license is generally required for eligible visitors.
Picnicking and shelters
Use picnic tables, grills, playground areas, and reservable picnic shelters where available. Shelters may require advance reservation and a fee.
Lake Frank and natural areas
Visit the quieter Lake Frank area for scenery, wildlife observation, and trail walks. Some facilities and access points are less developed than at Lake Needwood.
Use the Needwood Road entrance area for Lake Needwood facilities and allow extra time to find parking on weekends. Wear sturdy footwear, bring water and insect protection, and carry a trail map or use an offline map because the park is extensive.
No reservation is normally needed for ordinary park access. Reserve picnic shelters and register for popular programs in advance. Boat rentals may operate on a first-come basis or under seasonal scheduling.
This overview is general knowledge, not confirmed against an official source — verify hours, prices and entry rules before you go.
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How to reach
Rock Creek Regional Park is about 2.6 km (~33 min walk) from Shady Grove station on the Washington Metro.
Before you go
Good to know
Verify tickets, seasonal hours, entry rules, and special events on the official website before visiting.
Pair it up
Also near this station
Comfort Inn Shady Grove - Gaithersburg - Rockville
Hotels · 13 min walk
★ 4.2
Mattie J.T. Stepanek Park
Places to visit · 15 min walk
★ 4.6
SpringHill Suites by Marriott Gaithersburg
Hotels · 31 min walk
★ 4.3
Gaithersburg Marriott Washingtonian Center
Hotels · 33 min walk
★ 4.4
Bohrer Park
Places to visit · 35 min walk
★ 4.6
Guapo's Cocina & Bar
Restaurants · 35 min walk
★ 4.4
Frequently asked questions
How do I get to Rock Creek Regional Park from Shady Grove station?
Rock Creek Regional Park is about 2612 m (roughly 33 min walk) from Shady Grove station on the Washington Metro. Use the directions link on this page for turn-by-turn walking directions.
What is Rock Creek Regional Park rated?
Rock Creek Regional Park has a Google rating of 4.7 out of 5 from 2,258 reviews.
What's near Rock Creek Regional Park?
Also within a short walk of the same station: Comfort Inn Shady Grove - Gaithersburg - Rockville, Mattie J.T. Stepanek Park, SpringHill Suites by Marriott Gaithersburg.
Is Rock Creek Regional Park wheelchair accessible?
Yes — Google lists the following accessibility features for Rock Creek Regional Park: wheelchair-accessible entrance, wheelchair-accessible parking.
Is there parking near Rock Creek Regional Park?
Google lists these parking options near Rock Creek Regional Park: free parking lot, paid parking lot, free street parking.
Is Rock Creek Regional Park good for children?
Yes — Google lists Rock Creek Regional Park as good for children.
Are dogs allowed at Rock Creek Regional Park?
Yes — Google lists Rock Creek Regional Park as dog-friendly.
Is Rock Creek Regional Park free to enter?
General access to the park grounds and ordinary trails is generally free. Boat rentals, shelter reservations, special programs, and some services may cost extra.
Can I swim in Lake Needwood?
Swimming is generally not permitted in the lake. Use the water only through authorized boating or other posted activities.
Can I rent a boat?
Seasonal canoe, kayak, rowboat, or similar rentals have historically been available at Lake Needwood, but dates, equipment, and prices are not guaranteed. Confirm current operations before visiting.
Are dogs allowed?
Dogs are generally allowed outdoors on leash, subject to posted restrictions and rules near buildings, nature-center facilities, and special-use areas.
Is fishing allowed?
Fishing is generally allowed in designated waters, subject to Maryland regulations, licensing, seasons, and local posted rules.
How long should I plan for a visit?
Allow two to four hours for a typical visit. A longer visit is appropriate if you plan to hike several trails, picnic, visit Meadowside Nature Center, or go boating.
Does the park have accessible trails?
Some developed areas and paved paths may be accessible, but the park's natural trails vary considerably. Confirm current accessible routes and facility conditions with Montgomery Parks.
Can I reserve a picnic shelter?
Shelters may be reservable through Montgomery Parks and can be popular for weekends and gatherings. Advance booking is advisable.
Are the nature center and park open at the same hours?
No. Park grounds commonly follow dawn-to-dusk access, while Meadowside Nature Center and other facilities have their own schedules and may close seasonally.
Data and photos from Google Places, generated August 23, 2026. Ratings, hours and prices can change — confirm anything time-sensitive before you go.