Fort Totten Park

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Parks

Maryland

Nearby: Avondale Neighborhood Park 18th Street And Bunker Hill Park

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Fort Totten Park is a historic site located in the state of Maryland.

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Summary

It is a popular destination for visitors due to its rich history and scenic beauty. The park features a number of attractions, including the remains of a Civil War-era fort, hiking trails, and picnic areas.

One of the main reasons to visit Fort Totten Park is to explore its fascinating history. The fort was originally constructed in 1861 as a defensive position during the Civil War. Visitors can still see the remains of the fort, including the earthen walls and underground magazine. The park also features interpretive signs and exhibits that provide information about the fort's history and significance.

In addition to its historical attractions, Fort Totten Park is a great place to enjoy the outdoors. The park includes hiking trails that offer scenic views of the surrounding area. There are also picnic areas and a playground for families to enjoy.

Interesting facts about Fort Totten Park include the fact that it was named after General Joseph Gilbert Totten, who was the Chief Engineer of the U.S. Army during the mid-19th century. The park is also part of the Civil War Trails program, which highlights important historical sites related to the war.

The best time of year to visit Fort Totten Park is during the spring and fall when the weather is mild, and the foliage is at its most beautiful. However, the park is open year-round, and visitors can enjoy winter activities such as snowshoeing and cross-country skiing.

Overall, Fort Totten Park is a fascinating and beautiful destination that is well worth a visit. Whether you are interested in history, nature, or just enjoying a picnic in a scenic spot, this park has something for everyone.

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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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