Fort Washington Park


Built to defend the river approach to Washington, DC, Fort Washington has stood as silent 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. Joining the National Park Service in 1946, the park continues to protect the Potomac River.

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.

  • Fishing
  • Food
  • Picnicking
  • Guided Tours
  • Living History
  • Historic Weapons Demonstration
  • Shopping
  • Bookstore and Park Store

  • Forts

Entrance to Fort Washington

Entrance way into historic Fort Washington

Fort Washington Entrance

Fort Washington Volunteers firing a cannon

Fort Washington Volunteers firing a cannon

Fort Washington Guard fires one of the park's cannons. Demonstrations are presented during the summer months April-October.

Potomac View

a green shoreline with small lighthouse along river at sunset

Fort Washington offers great views of the Potomac River, especially at sunset.

Picnic Area at Fort Washington Park

Picnic tables under a tree

Picnic areas available to reserve.

Cannon crew at Fort Washington

Men in blue army uniforms pose by a cannon.

Check out the park's cannon demonstrations to experience the sights, sounds, and smells of the past!

Fort tour

A female park ranger talks with a man and woman in a fort

A park ranger gives a tour of the fort