Watkins Nature Center

alert-triangle-white A notice to our patrons
  • Watkins Nature Center is open for self-guided tours by reservation only. Reserve your time slot 24 hours in advance by selecting the "Reserve Your Visit" icon below.
  • All park trails are open while practicing social distancing.
  • Environmental education programs are being offered outdoors and virtually and can be found at www.PGParksDirect.com
  • For more information call 301-218-6702 or send an email to WatkinsNatureCenter@pgparks.com

Watkins Nature Center offers close-up wildlife investigation with its resident live animals, hands-on exhibits, interpretive programs, and special events.

Our live animal displays include insects, amphibians, reptiles, and birds of prey. The nature center also features indoor and outdoor ponds, a songbird feeding area, a butterfly/hummingbird garden, composting area, and an outdoor nest box exhibit.

Our Programs

Our programs attract over 90,000 visitors each year! Some of the programs include:

  • Nature Hikes
  • Campfires
  • Animal Shows Puppet Shows & Crafts
  • Summer Day Camps

Specialty programs are offered for school groups, Scout groups, home-school students, and adults. Volunteer opportunities are offered year-round for teens and adults ages 14 and over.

Admission is free, but nominal fees apply for programs.

Agent of Discovery: Exploring the Outdoors with a Mobile Interactive Game

agent of discovery logoWe are partnering with Agent of Discovery, a free educational mobile game for families, to encourage kids to learn and explore the surroundings of the Watkins Nature Center. The app is available in the Apple and Google Play stores.

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.