Dora Kelly Nature Park

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Parks

Virginia

Nearby: Rynex Nature Area Chambliss Park

Last Updated: December 25, 2025

Dora Kelly Nature Park is a 50-acre park located in Alexandria, Virginia.

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Summary

It offers a peaceful atmosphere, scenic views, and a variety of activities for visitors of all ages. The park offers various trails for hiking, picnic areas, and a playground for children. One of the main attractions of the park is the wetland area, which is home to numerous species of plants and animals. Visitors can observe various bird species, turtles, frogs, and other wildlife. The park also has a small pond that is home to fish and provides fishing opportunities.

In addition to its natural beauty, Dora Kelly Nature Park also has an interesting history. The land was originally owned by the Kelly family, who were prominent members of the African American community in Alexandria. The park was named in honor of Dora Kelly, a community activist who worked to improve the quality of life for African Americans in the area.

The best time to visit Dora Kelly Nature Park is during the spring and fall when the weather is mild, and the leaves are changing. It is also recommended to visit in the early morning or late afternoon when the wildlife is most active.

Overall, Dora Kelly Nature Park is a great place to visit for anyone looking to enjoy the natural beauty of Virginia and learn about the area's history. Whether you enjoy hiking, bird watching, or simply relaxing in a peaceful setting, Dora Kelly Nature Park has something for everyone.

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Park & Land Designation Reference

National Park
Large protected natural areas managed by the federal government to preserve significant landscapes, ecosystems, and cultural resources; recreation is allowed but conservation is the priority.
State Park
Public natural or recreational areas managed by a state government, typically smaller than national parks and focused on regional natural features, recreation, and education.
Local Park
Community-level parks managed by cities or counties, emphasizing recreation, playgrounds, sports, and green space close to populated areas.
Wilderness Area
The highest level of land protection in the U.S.; designated areas where nature is left essentially untouched, with no roads, structures, or motorized access permitted.
National Recreation Area
Areas set aside primarily for outdoor recreation (boating, hiking, fishing), often around reservoirs, rivers, or scenic landscapes; may allow more development.
National Conservation Area (BLM)
BLM-managed areas with special ecological, cultural, or scientific value; more protection than typical BLM land but less strict than Wilderness Areas.
State Forest
State-managed forests focused on habitat, watershed, recreation, and sustainable timber harvest.
National Forest
Federally managed lands focused on multiple use—recreation, wildlife habitat, watershed protection, and resource extraction (like timber)—unlike the stricter protections of national parks.
Wilderness
A protected area set aside to conserve specific resources—such as wildlife, habitats, or scientific features—with regulations varying widely depending on the managing agency and purpose.
Bureau of Land Management (BLM) Land
Vast federal lands managed for mixed use—recreation, grazing, mining, conservation—with fewer restrictions than national parks or forests.

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