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.