As technologies advanced, so did Fort Washington from the brick and stone of the 19th century to the concrete and steel of the 20th century.
Photo: NPS Photo
Fort Washington Park
Built to defend the river approach to Washington, DC, Fort Washington has stood sentry for over 200 years.
- LocationFort Washington, MD
- Entrance No fee listed
- HoursDaily, 6:00AM - 10:00PM
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Weather now88°F Sunny
- Alerts No active alerts
Overview
- African American Heritage
- Farming and Agriculture
- Forts
- Military
- Plantations
- Spanish-American War
- US Army
- War of 1812
4 more topics
- Wars and Conflicts
- Women's History
- World War I
- World War II
Things to Do
8 activities. Pick one to find other parks that offer it.
Camping
1 campground listed on Recreation.gov. Check availability and current conditions before you go.
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Day Use Facilities
Reservable Campground
Fort Washington is located 15 miles (24 km) south of Washington, D.C., along the Potomac River. It is a local favorite for picnicking, recreation and historic interest…
Reserve on Recreation.gov- Hiking
- Fishing
- Picnicking
- Birding
Details
Fees: Free Entrance
Overview
Fort Washington is located 15 miles (24 km) south of Washington, D.C., along the Potomac River. It is a local favorite for picnicking, recreation and historic interest. Built to defend the nation's capital in 1824, the 19th century masonry fort is the oldest and best preserved in the area. Rich in history, green space, and beautiful river vistas, Fort Washington Park is a treasure trove of historic and recreational opportunities.
Recreation
There are several large fields making it an ideal place for large parties and family gatherings. Both biking and hiking trails are available. The "B" picnic area offers a playground; a basketball court is near the "C" picnic area. Both are open during regular park hours year round. The playground and basketball court areas are not exclusive to the reservation-holder, but open to all visitors of the park.
Facilities
Fort Washington has eight picnic areas available, ranging in capacity from 35-150 people per site, with restrooms, picnic tables, and barbeque grills. The Visitor Center and Historic Fort are open year round. Park Rangers are on site to provide park information and historic talks and walks. The "B" picnic area offers a playground; a basketball court is near the "C" picnic area.
Natural Features
Fort Washington Park is located off Maryland Highway 210, four miles south of the National Harbor along the Potomac River in the quaint, quiet Fort Washington neighborhood. Abundant with trees, wild life, shore line and 341 acres (138 ha) of green space Fort Washington Park is great for fishing, birding and hiking.
Contact Info
For facility specific information, please call (771) 208-1555.Nearby Attractions
Downtown Washington, D.C. and interstate access are less than 10 miles from Fort Washington Park.
Fort Washington Park is also just minutes from:
The Waterfront District at National Harbor.
Charges & Cancellations
Cancelling a Reservation
Customers may cancel a reservation prior to the day of the reservation check-in date, both online, through the app, or through the contact center. A $10 cancellation fee may apply. For most facilities, customers may not cancel a reservation after 12:00am local time on the reservation check-in date. In these cases, the contact center will not be able to assist either, and only an on-site staff member will be able to assist. Check the facility's page for additional information on their specific business rules.
Group Facilities - Day Use Forfeit the Day Use recreation use fee if cancelled less than 14 days before the arrival date (not to exceed the total paid for the original reservation).
Rain Dates
Customers may call the facitilty to request a rain date, prior to the day of the picnic. There is no guarantee that the same site will be available on the new date requested.
Facilities & Services
Find visitor services available in the park. Check current hours and availability before you go.
Other Visitor Services
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Fort Washington Park Visitor Center
Facility
Built in the 1820s, this bright yellow building was once the home of Fort Washington's commander. Today, it serves as the Visitor Center for Fort Washington Park. Inside…
13551 Fort Washington Road, Fort Washington, MD (771) 208-1555 Directions
Details
Built in the 1820s, this bright yellow building was once the home of Fort Washington's commander. Today, it serves as the Visitor Center for Fort Washington Park. Inside you will find the park bookstore, a small museum, and two restrooms. The Visitor Center is staffed with Rangers ready to answer your questions.
Plan Your Visit
Hours
Daily, 6:00AM - 10:00PM · Fort Washington Park
Hours by area (3)
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Fort Washington ParkDaily, 6:00AM - 10:00PM
Open daily, 6:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m.
Monday 6:00AM - 10:00PM Tuesday 6:00AM - 10:00PM Wednesday 6:00AM - 10:00PM Thursday 6:00AM - 10:00PM Friday 6:00AM - 10:00PM Saturday 6:00AM - 10:00PM Sunday 6:00AM - 10:00PM -
Fort Washington Historic FortToday: 9:00AM - 4:30PM
Open Wednesday through Sunday, 9:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Monday Closed Tuesday Closed Wednesday 9:00AM - 4:30PM Thursday 9:00AM - 4:30PM Friday 9:00AM - 4:30PM Saturday 9:00AM - 4:30PM Sunday 9:00AM - 4:30PM -
Fort Washington Park Gated AreasDaily, 7:00AM - 10:00PM
Open daily for pedestrian access from 6:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m., and for vehicle access through gated areas from 7:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m.; gates are closed on Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day, and New Year’s Day.
Monday 7:00AM - 10:00PM Tuesday 7:00AM - 10:00PM Wednesday 7:00AM - 10:00PM Thursday 7:00AM - 10:00PM Friday 7:00AM - 10:00PM Saturday 7:00AM - 10:00PM Sunday 7:00AM - 10:00PM
Entrance fees
No entrance fees listed.
Weather
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Today
89° 62°
Overcast10% rain -
Tomorrow
90° 61°
Overcast36% rain -
Saturday
69° 56°
Overcast82% rain
Updated 4 hr ago
What to expect by season
Summers are generally hot and humid, with daytime highs frequently above 90 degrees Fahrenheit and scattered afternoon thunderstorms. Please carry water while participating in physical activity and be prepared to take shelter from lightning. Winters are generally cold, with nighttime lows frequently near freezing and occasional snowfall. Weather during spring and fall is generally moderate, but can change quickly.
Contact the park
Upcoming Events
6 coming up-
Fort Tour
About
Are you curious about the fascinating history behind Fort Washington? Join us for an enlightening guided tour that delves into the who, what, where, when, and why of this historic fortification! Discover the strategic significance of Digges Point and uncover the reasons it was selected as the ideal site for building the fort.
Whether you are a history buff or just looking to enjoy a scenic walk through the fort, this tour is perfect for all ages. Our knowledgeable guides will provide insights into the fort’s construction, its role in defense, and the stories of those who lived and served here.
In the event of incliment weather (dangerous heat, thunderstorms, poor air quality, or freezing cold) this program will be moved inside the visitor center and abridge to 30 minutes.
If you’re interested in participating but the scheduled times don’t work for you, please don’t hesitate to reach out! Call the Visitor Center at 771-208-1555 or email us prior to your arrival, and we’ll do our best to accommodate your request for a different tour time.
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Artillery Demonstration
About
Step back in time and watch Union soldiers fire a cannon! Learn about the process of loading and firing a Civil War era cannon with Fort Washington staff and volunteers. A Ranger will explain each step as its happening. Rangers and volunteers will be available after the demonstration to answer questions. Rangers will be available to interpret a section of the Officers' Quarters and barracks after the demonstration.There will be civil war uniforms worn by living historians, interpreting the story of Fort Washington in costume via the third-person. After the demonstration, when it is safe to do so, visitors can come and have a hands on experience with the cannon.
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This demonstration will involve loud noises, similar to that of a firework. Rangers will give a warning to cover your ears, but this program may not be right for people or dogs that are frightened by loud noises. -
Shoreline Cleanup at Fort Washington Park
About
Come put in some hard work to beautify Fort Washington Park's landscape by cleaning up the shoreline from 9:30am-11:30am! Meet the park ranger at the lighthouse parking area.
Gloves, trash pickers, and bags will be provided. This event also occurs on the second Saturday of every month.
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Nuts About Black Walnuts! Ink Making and Art Drop-In
About
Black walnut trees are a staple of Maryland’s ecosystem. The tree and nut have many uses from shelter and medicine to food and even art! Join a ranger to help them make black walnut ink and let your creativity shine painting outdoors. We suggest wearing something you don’t mind staining as black walnut ink is difficult to remove. This is a drop-in program so feel free to join anytime during the activity,
Show 2 more events
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Fort Washington Victorian Dance Society
About
Got two left feet? Don't worry, Fort Washington Victorian Dance Society will show you the ropes.This is a practice session for visitors and volunteers alike, grab a partner an join in on the fun. Participate in period accurate dances to the 1860s, practice figures like the ladies' chain and dances like the Quadrille.
Fort Washington Victorian Dance Society is welcoming to all skill levels. Prior experience is not required.
Period dress or uniforms is not required but encouraged for long term volunteers. Dress code is sunday best or unobstructive clothing for movement with comfortable shoes.
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Fort Washington Victorian Dance Society
About
Got two left feet? Don't worry, Fort Washington Victorian Dance Society will show you the ropes.This is a practice session for visitors and volunteers alike, grab a partner an join in on the fun. Participate in period accurate dances to the 1860s, practice figures like the ladies' chain and dances like the Quadrille.
Fort Washington Victorian Dance Society is welcoming to all skill levels. Prior experience is not required.
Period dress or uniforms is not required but encouraged for long term volunteers. Dress code is sunday best or unobstructive clothing for movement with comfortable shoes.
Getting There
Fort Washington, MD 20744
From I-95/495 take exit 3, Indian Head Highway South/MD 210. Travel about 4 miles to Fort Washington Road, turn right.
Full directions
The park is located at the end of the road. From Waldorf, MD: MD228 to Indian Head Highway/MD210 North. Turn left onto Old Fort Road. Continue to end of road, at the stop sign turn left onto Fort Washington Road, continue to park entrance.
Mailing address: 13551 Fort Washington Road, Fort Washington, MD 20744