• Bugler sounding Taps

    Civil War Defenses of Washington

    District of Columbia

There are park alerts in effect.
show Alerts »
  • Possible closures due to Hurricane Sandy

    Due to the effects of Hurricane Sandy, park areas may be temporarily closed. Please call (202) 895-6070 for more information and park conditions. More »

Hiking and Biking - Concerts - Tours - Activities - More

hikers on trail

Hiking in Fort Dupont Park.

NPS Photo

The areas around the forts and linking parklands create a gorgeous oasis of green in an urban setting providing a respite from the hustle and bustle of city life. Not only can you hike and bike on your own, but you can join in on some of the exciting activities happening in the parks. Living history programs, lectures, and park clean-ups are just a few of the educational and fun activities to be discovered and enjoyed.
more...

Did You Know?

Samuel Cooper

The Civil War Defenses were generally named after well known Union officers (many deceased during the war). This was not always the case. Fort Williams was first named Fort Traitor because the owner, Samuel Cooper(left), pledged an oath to the Union only to become a Confederate later on in the war.