Fort Hunt National Park

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Parks

Maryland

Nearby: Fort Hunt Fort Washington Park

Last Updated: December 25, 2025

Fort Hunt National Park is a historical site located in Fairfax County, Virginia, just south of Alexandria.

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Summary

The park is managed by the National Park Service and is open to the public year-round. The park covers 105 acres and consists of a variety of historical sites, nature trails, and recreational facilities.

One of the main reasons to visit Fort Hunt National Park is to learn about the history of the area. The park was once home to a military base that played a key role in the defense of Washington D.C. during World War II. Visitors can explore the remnants of the base, including several bunkers and other military structures. There are also several interpretive exhibits and displays that provide insight into the history of the site.

Another point of interest within the park is the Potomac River. The park borders the river and offers visitors the opportunity to go fishing, boating, or simply enjoy the scenic views from the shore. There are also several hiking trails within the park that provide access to the river and surrounding wilderness areas.

Fort Hunt National Park is also known for its wildlife. The park is home to a variety of birds, mammals, and reptiles, including bald eagles, ospreys, deer, and foxes. Visitors can observe these animals in their natural habitat while hiking or exploring the park.

The best time of year to visit Fort Hunt National Park depends on the activities you are interested in. Spring and summer are ideal for outdoor activities such as hiking, fishing, and boating. Fall is a great time to visit if you want to see the changing colors of the leaves and enjoy cooler temperatures. Winter is the least popular time to visit due to the colder weather, but the park is still open and offers opportunities for wildlife viewing and other activities.

Overall, Fort Hunt National Park is a great destination for history buffs, nature lovers, and anyone interested in exploring the outdoors. With its rich history, scenic beauty, and recreational opportunities, the park has something for everyone to enjoy.

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FORT HUNT NATIONAL PARK

Parks • Parks • Recreation

December 25, 2025

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Park & Land Designation Reference

National Park
Large protected natural areas managed by the federal government to preserve significant landscapes, ecosystems, and cultural resources; recreation is allowed but conservation is the priority.
State Park
Public natural or recreational areas managed by a state government, typically smaller than national parks and focused on regional natural features, recreation, and education.
Local Park
Community-level parks managed by cities or counties, emphasizing recreation, playgrounds, sports, and green space close to populated areas.
Wilderness Area
The highest level of land protection in the U.S.; designated areas where nature is left essentially untouched, with no roads, structures, or motorized access permitted.
National Recreation Area
Areas set aside primarily for outdoor recreation (boating, hiking, fishing), often around reservoirs, rivers, or scenic landscapes; may allow more development.
National Conservation Area (BLM)
BLM-managed areas with special ecological, cultural, or scientific value; more protection than typical BLM land but less strict than Wilderness Areas.
State Forest
State-managed forests focused on habitat, watershed, recreation, and sustainable timber harvest.
National Forest
Federally managed lands focused on multiple use—recreation, wildlife habitat, watershed protection, and resource extraction (like timber)—unlike the stricter protections of national parks.
Wilderness
A protected area set aside to conserve specific resources—such as wildlife, habitats, or scientific features—with regulations varying widely depending on the managing agency and purpose.
Bureau of Land Management (BLM) Land
Vast federal lands managed for mixed use—recreation, grazing, mining, conservation—with fewer restrictions than national parks or forests.

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