Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. recently shared photos of a family outing that included swimming in a river in Washington D.C., despite ongoing health warnings about contamination.

Family Excursion to Rock Creek Park

On a hike in Rock Creek Park, Kennedy and his family decided to take a dip in the river. His social media post featured pictures of the excursion, where he and his grandchildren, Bobcat and Cassius, enjoyed the water. In a tweet, Kennedy described the outing as a celebration of Mother’s Day, stating:

“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

This tweet was posted on May 11, 2025, revealing the personal aspect of the outing amidst serious safety concerns.

Health Warning and Contamination Issues

Rock Creek has been under a health advisory since October 2022, cautioning against swimming due to high bacteria levels. According to a notice from the National Park Service, the creek poses risks of infectious pathogens to both humans and pets:

“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.”

Reports indicate that chronic elevated levels of E. coli have been documented in Rock Creek, as highlighted by a city report on water quality. Historical contamination concerns in D.C. waterways date back decades, with the 1971 ban on swimming in both Rock Creek and the Potomac River due to similar issues.

Response to the Controversy

Despite the public health warnings and historical data illustrating the dangers of water contamination, RFK Jr. has yet to respond to the criticisms regarding his choice to swim in the river.