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Dora Kelley Nature Park

Dora Kelley Park, named for a Community Activist, is one of the largest parks in Alexandria. It has several entries, but the main entrance is located at the corner of Beauregard Street and Morgan Street. The Buddie Ford Nature Center is located within the park. The center exhibits live animals, holds nature instruction classes, and leads guided park walks with the Park Naturalist.
Page updated on January 27, 2024 at 10:33 AM

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Address

5750 Sanger Avenue

Hours of Operation

Dawn to dusk

Location Features

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ADA Access
Bench icon
Benches
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Bicycling
bird watching icon
Bird Watching
Environmental Education Icon
EnvironmentalEducation
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Museum
Parking Icon
Parking
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Running Track or Trail
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Stream
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Walking Trail
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Wooded Area

Dora Kelley Nature Park Photos

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Dora M. Kelley (1914-2001) was an avid nature lover and long-time resident of the City of Alexandria. Her desire to preserve the remaining woodlands near her home was realized in 1973 with the acquisition of 25.6 acres (i.e., the "Rolfs tract") by the City of Alexandria for the establishment of a nature park/wildlife sanctuary. In 1976, by resolution of Alexandria's City Council, the park was named in honor of Mrs. Kelley. This was done  "in recognition of the outstanding work and efforts of Mrs. Dora Kelley in preserving the land and its character...." In the words of former Vice Mayor Mel Bergheim, "Mrs. Kelley's advocacy for the park symbolized the grass root efforts of activists who labored in the vineyards without recognition, or even thought of recognition, for the benefit of the community."  The park is now a living legacy, enriching the lives of all who visit.
 
The Dora Kelley Nature Park & Wildlife Sanctuary presently encompasses 50 acres of oak-hickory forest, stream valley floodplain, and freshwater marsh. These diverse habitats are home to a variety of native plants and wildlife, some of which are found nowhere else in the City of Alexandria. Park visitors are encouraged to hike along the self-guided nature trail that meanders through the park. Brochures for the nature trail are available at the "Jerome "Buddie" Ford Nature Center located adjacent the park. The Nature Center was established in 1978 and currently provides year-round programs and exhibits on the parks human and natural history.

Visit Jerome "Buddie" Ford Nature Center

Jerome “Buddie” Ford worked for the City of Alexandria Department of Recreation, Parks, and Cultural Activities for 47 years. Visit Alexandria's very own Nature Center, where visitors can see live animals up close and learn about the cultural and natural history of the neighboring Dora Kelley Nature Park. We offer year-round programs and interactive exhibits for children and adults of all ages. Explore and enjoy Alexandria’s wild side with us! 

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Click here to learn more about our Nature Center!

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Alexandria, VA 22314

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