Fort Washington Park
Park ยท Maryland
NPS Photo
Historic fort and military reservation in Fort Washington, Maryland, US
Fort Washington, located near the community of Fort Washington, Maryland, was for many decades the only defensive fort protecting Washington, D.C. The original fort, overlooking the Potomac River, was completed in 1809, and was begun as Fort Warburton, but renamed in 1808. During the War of 1812, the fort was destroyed by its own garrison during a British advance.
About Fort Washington Park
Built to defend the river approach to Washington, DC, Fort Washington has stood sentry for over 200 years. 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.
Park Photos
Activities
Operating Hours
Fort Washington Park
Open daily, 6:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m.
| mon | tue | wed | thu | fri | sat | sun |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6:00AM - 10:00PM | 6:00AM - 10:00PM | 6:00AM - 10:00PM | 6:00AM - 10:00PM | 6:00AM - 10:00PM | 6:00AM - 10:00PM | 6:00AM - 10:00PM |
Fort Washington Historic Fort
Open Wednesday through Sunday, 9:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
| mon | tue | wed | thu | fri | sat | sun |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Closed | Closed | 9:00AM - 4:30PM | 9:00AM - 4:30PM | 9:00AM - 4:30PM | 9:00AM - 4:30PM | 9:00AM - 4:30PM |
Fort Washington Park Gated Areas
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 Yearโs Day.
| mon | tue | wed | thu | fri | sat | sun |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 7:00AM - 10:00PM | 7:00AM - 10:00PM | 7:00AM - 10:00PM | 7:00AM - 10:00PM | 7:00AM - 10:00PM | 7:00AM - 10:00PM | 7:00AM - 10:00PM |
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to enter Fort Washington Park?
Fort Washington Park is free to enter.
What are the best activities at Fort Washington Park?
Popular activities at Fort Washington Park include: Fishing, Food, Picnicking, Guided Tours, Living History, Historic Weapons Demonstration, Shopping, Bookstore and Park Store.
What is the weather like at Fort Washington Park?
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.
How do I get to Fort Washington Park?
From I-95/495 take exit 3, Indian Head Highway South/MD 210. Travel about 4 miles to Fort Washington Road, turn right. 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.
Entrance Fees
Free Admission
Weather
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.
Directions
From I-95/495 take exit 3, Indian Head Highway South/MD 210. Travel about 4 miles to Fort Washington Road, turn right. 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.
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Official Resources
NPS Official WebsiteMore Parks in Maryland
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