About Fort Washington Park Day Use Facilities
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:Oxon Cove Park and Oxon Hill FarmPiscataway ParkNational Colonial FarmThe Waterfront District at National Harbor.Charges & Cancellations Cancelling a Reservation Customers may
How to Get There
From Interstate 495: Take Exit 3 to MD 210 South (Indian Head Highway South). Travel approximately 4 miles to Fort Washington Road. Turn right on to Fort Washington Road and continue to park entrance. From Waldorf, MD: Take MD 228 to MD 210 North (Indian Head Highway North). Turn left at Old Fort Road S, travel to end of road. Turn right onto Fort Washington Road and continue to park entrance.
Driving directions (Google Maps) →What to Pack for Your Stay
Tuned to the live forecast for this park.
👔 What to Wear
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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
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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 Washington Park Day Use Facilities
Heading to Fort Washington Park Day Use Facilities? 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 Washington Park Day Use Facilities?
No central reservation system listed for Fort Washington Park Day Use Facilities. Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/233354) for the latest entry policy and availability.
How do I get to Fort Washington Park Day Use Facilities?
From Interstate 495: Take Exit 3 to MD 210 South (Indian Head Highway South). Travel approximately 4 miles to Fort Washington Road. Turn right on to Fort Washington Road and continue to park entrance. From Waldorf, MD: Take MD 228 to MD 210 North (Indian Head Highway North). Turn left at Old Fort Road S, travel to end of road. Turn right onto Fort Washington Road and continue to park entrance.
How do I contact Fort Washington Park Day Use Facilities?
You can reach the park at phone: 301-763-4600 or email: fowa_visitorservices@nps.gov.
References & Official Resources
