How to Visit Fort Washington, Maryland
Located seventeen miles down river from Washington D.C., Fort Washington, Maryland, is now a National Historic Park. The park is open daily, allowing visitors to discover what life was like for soldiers, as well as prisoners, during both the War of 1812 and the Civil War. The fort was in operation well into the 20th century. From within the fort, any vantage point provides a crisp view of the Potomac River. Cannon fire could easily sink any British or Confederate ship, while rifles could pick off any survivor swimming to shore. For several years, the fort was Washington D.C.’s only protection. Most of the cannons have been removed, but the turrets are still in place, as are several garrisons. Prior to reaching the fort, the park service has provided an excellent picnicking area, making the park a choice family destination.
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Instructions
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A Day Exploring Fort Washington
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Fly into Reagan National Airport and drive south on Interstate 395 to the Washington Beltway (Interstate 495). Follow the beltway east toward Baltimore, and after crossing the Woodrow Wilson Bridge, take the Indian Head Highway (210) exit south toward Fort Washington. Continue approximately five miles south and turn right onto Fort Washington Road. The road ends at the fort.
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Fly into Baltimore-Washington International Airport and drive north on Interstate 195 to access Interstate 95 south to the District, approximately 30 miles away. From 95 access the Washington Beltway south toward Richmond, Virginia and exit off the beltway onto Indian Head Highway (210) and south toward Fort Washington. Continue approximately five miles and turn right onto Fort Washington Road. The road ends at the fort.
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Stop at any nearby grocery store and stock up picnicking necessities; otherwise, there are several fast food options available.
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Pay the nominal fee at the park gate. Currently the fee covers a three-day visit.
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Arrive early and secure a picnic area, noting that group picnicking requires reservations and a deposit.
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Explore the fort by walking through the drawbridge entrance and taking steps up to the turret areas. Many areas are open to the public.
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Walk the outer grounds of the fort, past barracks, out buildings and sod garrisons and down to the shore, where a functional lighthouse still stands.
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Take advantage of the open lawn areas for football, volleyball, kite flying or Frisbee.
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Hike the trail that surrounds the park. It’s an easy-to-moderate hike and can be done within a couple of hours.
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Fish the Potomac--a diversion encouraged by the rangers--noting that Maryland fishing laws apply and one should inquire about purchasing a fishing license before visiting.
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Choose dining and lodging anywhere in the greater D.C. area. Fort Washington does not have camping facilities.
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Tips & Warnings
The smaller Fort Foote is only a couple miles north.
The Surratt House, where John Wilkes Booth immediately escaped to after he killed Abraham Lincoln, is also just north of Fort Washington.
