Fort Washington Park | Prince Georges County

Fort Washington Park is a historic and recreational site located in Fort Washington, Maryland, along the Potomac River, approximately 10 miles south of downtown Washington, D.C. Covering about 341 acres, the park is managed by the National Park Service as part of the National Capital Parks-East system. It serves as both a preserved military fortification and a multi-use outdoor recreation area, combining centuries of American coastal defense history with modern-day natural and leisure amenities.

Historical Background

The centerpiece of the park is Fort Washington, a coastal defense fortification built between 1815 and 1824 to protect the nation's capital from naval attacks coming up the Potomac River. It replaced an earlier, smaller fort called Fort Warburton, which was destroyed by U.S. forces during the War of 1812 to prevent its capture by British troops.

Fort Washington was strategically important as the only major seaward defense for Washington, D.C., throughout the 19th and early 20th centuries. The fort underwent significant upgrades in the 1840s and again during the Endicott period (1890s), when modern concrete batteries and heavy artillery were added to counter new naval threats. The fort was active through World War II, housing Coast Artillery units and later serving as a military training facility. In 1946, the fort was transferred to the National Park Service and opened to the public as a historic site.

Fort and Visitor Facilities

The fort itself is a well-preserved brick and stone structure with:

Ramparts and Bastions: Visitors can explore the walls, gun emplacements, and underground magazines.

Historic Buildings: The former commanding officer’s quarters now serve as the Visitor Center.

Exhibits: The Visitor Center includes displays about the fort's history, coastal defenses, and military life, as well as a short introductory film.

Cannon Demonstrations: From April through October, monthly live cannon firings take place on the first Sunday, recreating historical artillery use.

Tours are mostly self-guided, though ranger-led programs and talks are regularly offered during the warmer months.

Outdoor Recreation and Natural Features

Beyond its historical significance, Fort Washington Park offers a variety of recreational opportunities amid its natural landscapes of mature woodlands, open fields, and river shoreline:

Hiking and Biking Trails: The park features approximately 3 miles of trails, including the Park Loop Trail, which winds through forests and offers scenic overlooks of the Potomac River.

Wildlife Watching: The diverse habitats support a variety of birds, mammals, and aquatic species. Birdwatchers can spot species such as bald eagles, herons, and migrating songbirds.

Picnic Areas: There are eight large picnic shelters scattered throughout the park, each accommodating between 35 to 150 people. These sites are equipped with tables, grills, and nearby restrooms, making them popular for family outings and group events.

Fishing: The Potomac River shoreline within the park offers opportunities for shoreline fishing, with species like catfish, bass, and perch commonly caught.

Boating Access: While the park does not operate a marina, its location along the Potomac makes it accessible for boaters with nearby launch points.

Amenities and Accessibility

Visitor Center Hours: Open Thursday through Sunday, 9:00 AM to 4:30 PM.

Park Hours: Grounds are open daily from 6:00 AM until dusk.

Parking: Available on-site, including spaces for cars and recreational vehicles.

Restrooms: Located near picnic areas and the Visitor Center.

Accessibility: The park has wheelchair-accessible paths and facilities, though some historic areas may have limited access due to preservation constraints.

Regulations: Alcohol is prohibited; pets are allowed on a six-foot leash; open fires are permitted only within designated grills at picnic shelters.

Educational and Community Programs

Fort Washington Park hosts various programs designed to engage visitors with its history and natural environment:

Ranger-Led Tours: These include guided walks through the fort, explaining the architectural features and military history.

Historical Demonstrations: Live cannon firings and musket drills provide immersive experiences in military heritage.

Special Events: The park organizes annual celebrations, including Independence Day fireworks and commemorative ceremonies.

Interpretive Signage: Throughout the park, signs provide context on the fort’s construction, the lives of soldiers stationed there, and the broader history of coastal defense.

Location and Access

The park is located at 13551 Fort Washington Road, Fort Washington, MD 20744. It is accessible via Maryland Route 210 (Indian Head Highway), approximately 4 miles south of the Capital Beltway (I-495). Ample parking is available, and public transportation options include regional bus services connecting to nearby Metro stations.

Summary

Fort Washington Park offers a rich blend of American military history and outdoor recreation within a scenic riverside setting. The historic fort provides a tangible connection to the nation’s coastal defense past, while the expansive park grounds invite visitors to enjoy hiking, picnicking, wildlife watching, and river views. Its combination of educational programs, historic preservation, and natural beauty make it a compelling destination for families, history enthusiasts, nature lovers, and anyone seeking a peaceful retreat near Washington, D.C.