Fort Washington Park

Fort Washington Park has proven to be a versatile gem, offering a multitude of enjoyable experiences for visitors. As a park, it provides a serene and picturesque environment that appeals to all ages. The family-friendly atmosphere welcomes children, and the dog-friendly policy allows our four-legged friends to join in the fun.

For outdoor enthusiasts, Fort Washington Park offers excellent opportunities for hiking and fishing. The well-maintained trails lead to breathtaking viewpoints, rewarding hikers with stunning vistas of the surrounding landscapes. Anglers can enjoy the thrill of casting their lines into the water and potentially reeling in a prized catch.

But Fort Washington Park isn't just about outdoor activities--it's also an educational destination. The park's historical significance adds a layer of intrigue and learning to the experience. Visitors can delve into the rich history of the area through informative exhibits and guided tours, gaining a deeper understanding of the past.

In summary, Fort Washington Park is a true gem that satisfies a variety of interests. Whether you're seeking a tranquil natural setting, engaging in outdoor activities like hiking and fishing, or eager to explore the historical aspects of the area, this park has it all. Its welcoming atmosphere, family and dog-friendly policies, and educational opportunities make it an ideal destination for a memorable day out. With its versatility and beauty, Fort Washington Park earns a well-deserved five-star rating.

Great, free park for usual park activities of walking outside + a fort for the history lover. Right now the ranger station/visitor center wasn't open to the public, but they had maps available outside to explain the history of the fort which was a short walk away.

It's actually a really helpful map from the history from 1808-present and a map of the park and some pictures. The fort has signs in the different types of rooms for storage to sleeping quarters, all handily numbered for easy map reference.

It's a concise way to learn about the site, and on top of the fun of learning, there are great views to the river. It's a nice area to walk around if you want a quiet, woodsy location. The learning for free is just icing on the cake.

There were some other buildings on site that seemed currently closed, but there's still a lot of enjoyment to be have for both a nature lover and historic lover and of course for someone who enjoys both.

What a beautiful park!
We have been to the area many times. However, we did not know about this Fort until we found it on the National Park Ap. This is a must-see. The Fort is in amazing condition if you consider its age.
There is so much to see, and you can access so many parts .
Highly recommend!

The park is within a five minute drive from my house. I love coming here to get a good morning or afternoon walk. My only complaint is that they do not have the bathrooms open and you have to use a porta potty so be mindful when visiting if you're not porta, potty friendly.

Beautiful Park that's well maintained, clean and offers beautiful views - combined with a rich history. Check out the informational boards throughout the park.

No restrooms at this time but there are scattered Port-a-John's available that appear to be maintained and stocked regularly.

Park is dog-friendly. I've stopped through a few times and they haven't charged fees so I am not sure if/when that is set to change.

Plenty of parking. You can walk the perimeter of the park on paved sidewalks/trails and there's also a River Trail that's delightful - you can squeeze in several miles if you cover this distance.

Folks that come here and litter, just stop already and have some decency. There's no excuse for this when there are plenty of trash cans around the park. I wish they had cameras and fined people $500 a pop. Bet that madness would stop real quick! :)

In closing, this park is well worth the drive for those coming from outside the area.

Fort Washington was established in 1809 and was an active post through World War II, built to defend the river approach to Washington, DC. The park joined the National Park Service in 1946,and continues to protect the Potomac River.

It is free to enter the park and there is ample parking. Pets are allowed (on a leash) in all outdoor park areas, including the parade ground and bastions of the old fort. Pets are not allowed in the visitor center or the barracks buildings of the old fort with the exception of service animals. With that said, they have a welcome center that is open during normal business hours, and the park is open from 8am to sundown. There are several group picnic areas that require reservations to use the area. They host events and fort tours. You can check their calendar for dates and times. One Sunday a month from April to October the park has Civil War artillery demonstrations.

The park is well maintained and it's a great place to visit for families or individuals. There are few places like this this that you can go for free and spend a day. You can spend the day walking around and exploring all of the historic buildings with placards telling you about the history of each location; picnicking, reading a book, photography, etc.. There is a 3-mile trail that follows the perimeter of the park boundary. A popular site for birdwatchers. The park is located right along the Potomac River where there are many different types of fish if you want to go fishing. A Maryland Tidal Sport Fishing License is required (http://prfc.us/sports.html).

I highly recommend visiting if you are in the area. It's a great was spend the day or just a few hours walking and enjoying history and nature.

This is a wonderful, free outdoor activity to do with the family. I discovered it when I was on the other side of the river, on Mt. Vernon Trail, and saw the giant fort across the way. We got home and looked up that this was Fort Washington Park. Depending on what time you go, you'll be able to see volunteers dressed in period garb discussing the inside of the fort. You can walk throughout and into lots of fun dark nooks and crannies. The fort is situated on the water, and walking closer to the water you can find picnic tables and a lighthouse. It's incredibly picturesque. If you decide to picnic by the water, just a caution that it can get pretty windy and you may need to tie down your things.

Fort Washington National Park is a historic fort along the Potomac River just a 25-minute drive from SE D.C. Originally George Washington's vision, the original fort was destroyed in the War of 1812. It was rebuilt in 1824 and the main structure still stands after protecting the capitol city in the Civil War, Spanish-American War, and World War I. The fort was used as a training facility in World War II. The National Park Services took it over in 1946. Here's why you should go:

1) History: If you have an interest in history, it's worth a visit. The visitor center sets the stage for the historical significance of the fort. As you explore, there are signs that provide more facts. Several rooms are preserved and set up like a museum. At times, there are even period reenactors there to provide additional context.

2) Exploration: Most of the fort is open for exploration and not well kept adding to the mystery. Behind the fort are hobbit hole-like structures that you can venture into. If you drive around the park, stop and explore all the abandoned forts and houses. It's fascinating!

3) Views: The river views of Alexandria and even the National Mall are stunning.

If you're driving back to D.C. afterward, find the local ice cream shop on Yelp on your route.

Great public National Park, just outside of Washington.

There are wide rolling meadows, a draw bridge, stone parapets, lots of barracks and view points to explore and an old lighthouse at the foot of Fort Washington on the Potomac.

A yellow wood house at the top of the hill greets visitors with information, pamphlets, postcards!

At every step there are signs that explain location as well as historical facts and uses of the Fort in past wars: such as the Civil War, among the states and World War 1 - which saw Fort Washington used as a storage and waystation for U.S. soldiers headed to battles in Belgium and France.

Bring water as there are lots of trails and parking is a half mile from the trailhead.

Rebel review: 5 star cool Fort

My family enjoyed our visit today! We were looking for a place to get some exercise and just enjoy some different views. Due to the pandemic some of the facilities were closed so we hope to come back to enter in some buildings couldn't check out this time. The park was clean and we shared the park with family, fishermen, and people exercising.

My husband and I loved the history! The entire group loved the views and the space to just run around and play and walk! Also we enjoyed the nature, we saw so many birds, deer, and a beaver.