Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. shared pictures of himself and his family swimming in Rock Creek in Washington, D.C., despite decadeslong warnings from the National Park Service not to do so.
Since 1971, health officials have advised against swimming in the creek because the city’s sewage system flows into it. Kennedy posted pictures of himself underwater in jeans and his younger family playing in the creek.
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Mother’s Day hike in Dumbarton Oaks Park with Amaryllis, Bobby, Kick, and Jackson, and a swim with my grandchildren, Bobcat and Cassius in Rock Creek. pic.twitter.com/TXowaSMTFY
— Robert F. Kennedy Jr (@RobertKennedyJr) May 11, 2025
The NPS warns, “Swimming and wading are not allowed due to high bacteria levels.”
“Rock Creek has high levels of bacteria and other infectious pathogens that make swimming, wading, and other contact with the water a hazard to human (and pet) health. Please protect yourself and your pooches by staying on trails and out of the creek,” a notice from the NPS says.
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The NPS also warns that swimming or wading in the water can erode the stream and negatively affect the ecosystem. Swimming has been banned in most D.C. waterways for the last 50 years because of high bacteria levels.
Kennedy, who has supported many unconventional wellness practices, made headlines during his run for president last year when it was revealed that a parasite ate part of his brain.