Discover Your Potomac


Potomac River 101

Experience Your Potomac

Water Quality

Get to know our Nation's River by learning about its ecologically rich lands and waters from the headwaters in West Virginia to the tidal portions of Point Lookout, Maryland.

River Quick Facts >

Historic River Moments >

Maps >

Partners >

River Photo Gallery >

Water Access Points >


How the Potomac shapes us (and how we shape it back)

For thousands of years, the Potomac River has played a critical role in the lives of the communities that settled along its banks as well as the wide variety of animals that call the river their home. Learn more in our three-part blog series.

History we should know: How the Potomac shaped our community >

How the Potomac shaped our society and economy >

How the Potomac River shapes local wildlife >

We are all suckers for a good Buzzfeed list or an addictive streaming show, but there's nothing like sharing the experience of a fun day outdoors with friends and loved ones. 

Outdoor Recreation & Trail Maps >

National & State Parks >

Potomac River Segment Plan >

If you find yourself asking, “How healthy is the Potomac River?” then be sure to dive into our Potomac Report Card. You'll learn what's going right and wrong for our hometown river—and how you can help. 

2023 Potomac Report Card >

Past Report Cards >

Potomac River Climate Report: Rising to the Challenge >

Maryland/DC Environmental Site Design Assessment >

Virginia Environmental Site Design Assessment >

New Pollutants in the Potomac and Beyond >