Fort Washington Park

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Parks

Maryland

Nearby: Fort Hunt National Park Tantallon North Park

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Fort Washington Park is a historical site located in Prince George’s County, Maryland.

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Summary

The park was established in 1949 and covers over 341 acres of land. There are several good reasons to visit Fort Washington Park, including its rich history and scenic views. The park offers visitors a chance to explore a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty.

One of the main attractions of Fort Washington Park is the Fort itself. This historic site was built in 1809 and served as a defensive fortification during the War of 1812. Today, visitors can take a tour of the fort and learn about its history and the role it played in defending the nation's capital. Other points of interest at the park include a museum, hiking trails, picnic areas, and a marina.

Interesting facts about Fort Washington Park include its location on the Potomac River, which offers stunning views of the water and the surrounding landscape. The park is also home to a diverse range of wildlife, including bald eagles, ospreys, and other birds of prey. Visitors can experience the park’s natural beauty by hiking the trails and exploring the wooded areas.

The best time of year to visit Fort Washington Park is in the spring and fall when the weather is mild and the foliage is at its best. During the summer months, the park can be quite busy with visitors, so it’s recommended to visit early in the day to avoid the crowds. In the winter, the park can be chilly, but still offers a beautiful winter wonderland experience.

In conclusion, Fort Washington Park is a must-visit destination in Maryland for anyone interested in history, culture, and natural beauty. With its historic fort, museum, hiking trails, and stunning views, there is something for everyone to enjoy at this unique park.

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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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