dog rules pet policy and info

Meridian HIll Park

Located in Washington, D.C.

Meridian Hill Park is a structured urban park located in the Washington, D.C. neighborhood of Columbia Heights; it also abuts the nearby neighborhood of Adams Morgan. The park was designed and built between 1912 and 1940. This 12 acre formally landscaped site is maintained by the National Park Service as a part of Rock Creek Park, but is not contiguous with that much larger nearby park. Meridian Hill Park is bordered by 15th, 16th, W, and Euclid Streets NW, and sits on a prominent hill 1.5 miles (2.42 km) directly north of the White House. The park has also been unofficially known as "Malcolm X Park" by some city residents.

  • Pets are allowed on all trails and exterior areas
  • Parking areas and along paved roads
  • Must be restrained or kept on a leash no longer than 6 feet at all times.
  • Dogs must wear a collar with current tags at all times
  • Pick up after your dog at all times – Leave no trace

*Please see more details for leash info

  • Inside buildings (unless service animal)
  • Never leave your pet unattended or alone inside a vehicle
  • Never off leash – unless inside a vehicle, tent, dog crate or other portable kennel
  • Untagged dogs or dogs with uncurrent tags
  • Excessive barking

*Please see more details for leash info

  • Extreme range of weather
  • Ticks and biting insects
  • Do not drink from waterways
  • Bring plenty of drinking water

Leash Laws: Most parks require dogs to be on a leash in some or all areas, however, some parks allow dogs off leash in certain locations, please consult the parks website before going off leash, Thank you!

  • Consult the park website before traveling all information is to be used as a guide.
  • Respect local wildlife.
  • Leave no trace – What you bring in, you bring out.
  • If you are visiting during the hottest months of the year, a “palm test” is recommended before walking your dog – place your hand on the pavement for a minute and see if it is comfortable there. If the pavement feels hot to your palm, it will be hot to your dog’s paws.

(202) 426-6841

Meridian HIll Park Website

Meridian HIll Park Volunteer

We do our best to keep all information current and accurate - If you see an error or think we have missed something please contact us directly.

Leave a Comment

Have you been here before? Leave a helpful tip to let others know the best spots

One Comment:

  • Jacob Heiser says:

    Meridian Park has become an off-leash park. This is dangerous, dirty and destructive to the park. Please start patrolling.

  • Post a Comment

    Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

    We do our best to keep all information current and accurate - If you see an error or think we have missed something please contact us directly.

    view all states national park paws

    Find an Area

    By state:

    By name:

    Search

    Not sure where to start?

    View All Areas »

    Articles

    Explore articles for helpful info