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FacilityCampgroundRecreation.gov

Fort Hunt Picnic Areas

Mount Vernon, Maryland · Prince George's County · Campground

Overview Fort Hunt Park provides six picnic rental areas: Area A, Area B, Areas C1, C2, C3, and Area D. Picnic pavilions are in Area A, B, C-2 and D. Areas C-1 and C-3 are open areas with picnic tables only. Only Picnic Area A has electricity and amplified sound allowed. If you plan to grill, you must bring in your own…

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38.71472, -77.05333
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About Fort Hunt Picnic Areas

Overview Fort Hunt Park provides six picnic rental areas: Area A, Area B, Areas C1, C2, C3, and Area D. Picnic pavilions are in Area A, B, C-2 and D. Areas C-1 and C-3 are open areas with picnic tables only. Only Picnic Area A has electricity and amplified sound allowed. If you plan to grill, you must bring in your own grill. A fire extinguisher is required for grilling. If you have a large group and wish to cater food and beverage, please contact gwmp_sup@nps.gov to obtain a special use permit. If you plan to bring in and prepare your own food and beverage, no catering request is necessary. See the Need to Know section under Food and Beverage for more information.Some types of activities (e.g. organized runs or races, weddings, etc.) may also require a special use permit. Please contact gwmp_sup@nps.gov for more information.Fort Hunt Park is located only two miles from Mount Vernon, the historical home of George Washington, and is a local favorite for picnicking and recreation. This picnic area has transformed tremendously over time, from George Washington's farmland to a Spanish-American War fort to a top secret intelligence camp during World War II. The rich history of this area is still being discovered and shared with the public.Recreation Fort Hunt Park has many opportunities for recreation. There are several large fields, making it an ideal place for large picnics and family gatherings. All picnic rentals have different pricing for weekends versus weekday rentals. The historic batteries are always open to the public. The inner lane of the Loop Road is closed to cars past Area A and can be used as a multi-use trail. The stretch of the Mount Vernon Trail from Turkey Run Park south to Riverside Park is a great place to see birds along the river. There are several birds of prey that live in the area.Sundays in June, July and August, the park presents the Fort Hunt Concert Series.Facilities Fort Hunt has six picnic areas available for reservation, ranging in capac

How to Get There

From Interstate 395, take exit 10B for George Washington Memorial Parkway. Merge onto the parkway and continue for about 12 miles. Turn right onto Fort Hunt Road and continue to the park.

Driving directions (Google Maps) →

What to Pack for Your Stay

Tuned to the live forecast for this park.

👔 What to Wear

  • 👕
    Long-sleeve shirt
    Synthetic or merino, sun-protective.
  • 🧥
    Light shell or windbreaker
    Even on warm days, wind can chill (avg wind 0 mph).
  • 👖
    Hiking pants or convertible
    Layer for variable conditions.
  • 🥾
    Trail runners or low boots
    Comfortable, broken in.

🎒 What to Pack

  • 💧
    Water
    Bring at least 1L of water; more in heat.
  • 🍫
    High-energy snacks
    A snack for the trail.
  • 🧴
    Sun protection
    Sunscreen, sunglasses, brimmed hat.
  • 🩹
    First-aid kit
    Blister patches, ibuprofen, tape, antiseptic wipes.
  • 🗺
    Offline map
    Download your route in advance via Gaia, Caltopo, or OSM-based apps.

Recommendations adapt to the current forecast + trail stats. Use them as a starting point — local conditions, your experience, and the time of day you start all matter.

Plan Your Visit to Fort Hunt Picnic Areas

Heading to Fort Hunt Picnic Areas? A few things to know before you go:

  • Reservations: popular sites fill up fast — check Recreation.gov 6 months in advance
  • Fees: day-use and camping fees vary; check current rates on the official park page
  • Trash & pack-out: follow Leave No Trace principles
  • Wildlife: store food in bear boxes where provided; never feed wildlife
  • Weather: the 5-day forecast above is updated every 6 hours; verify just before you go

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a reservation for Fort Hunt Picnic Areas?

No central reservation system listed for Fort Hunt Picnic Areas. Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/232494) for the latest entry policy and availability.

How do I get to Fort Hunt Picnic Areas?

From Interstate 395, take exit 10B for George Washington Memorial Parkway. Merge onto the parkway and continue for about 12 miles. Turn right onto Fort Hunt Road and continue to the park.

How do I contact Fort Hunt Picnic Areas?

You can reach the park at phone: 202-439-7325, OR 703-235-1530.