Fort Stanton Park

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Parks

Virginia

Nearby: Barry Farm Recreation Center Anacostia Park

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Fort Stanton Park, located in Virginia, is a historical site that offers a glimpse into the Civil War era.

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Summary

There are several reasons to visit this park, including its rich history, beautiful scenery, and recreational activities.

One of the main points of interest at Fort Stanton Park is the actual fort that was used during the Civil War. Visitors can explore the fort and learn about its architecture and the daily life of soldiers who lived there. The park also features several hiking trails that offer stunning views of the surrounding landscape.

In addition to the fort and hiking trails, Fort Stanton Park offers a playground for children and picnic areas for families. There are also several events held throughout the year, such as Civil War reenactments and historical lectures.

Interesting facts about Fort Stanton Park include that it was built in 1861 and was used by Union soldiers during the Civil War. The fort was named after Edwin M. Stanton, who was the Secretary of War at the time. Today, the park is managed by the National Park Service and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

The best time of year to visit Fort Stanton Park is in the spring or fall when the weather is mild and the foliage is colorful. However, the park is open year-round and offers different experiences with each season. Summer brings warm weather and outdoor activities, while winter offers snowshoeing and cross-country skiing.

Overall, Fort Stanton Park is a perfect destination for history buffs and outdoor enthusiasts alike. With its rich history, beautiful scenery, and recreational activities, it is a must-visit location in Virginia.

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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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