The National Park Service Civil War Defense of Washington are administered by three national parks. The following information will help you to plan your visit to the sites.
- Click here for a list of fort sites and what you can expect to see when you get there.
- Operating hours are from dawn to dusk.
- Pets on leashes of 6' or less are allowed. Please clean up after your pet.
- Please dispose of your garbage and other refuse in park-provided containers, or take it with you.
- No camping in National Park Service Defense of Washington sites. Please contact Greenbelt Park or Prince William Forest Park if you are interested in nearby campgrounds.
- Avoid climbing on any part of historic fortification or on the batteries, some areas are slippery and damp, especially in rain and snow. Please stay off parapets and keep a careful eye on children.
- If you are hiking or biking, please consider the following suggestions:
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- If you plan to hike or bike solo, give your intended route and length of trip to a friend.
- Wear proper clothing. Hiking boots should be sturdy, have good traction and ankle support, and should be well broken-in ahead of time.
- Bring bottled water.
- Prevent damage to resources by bicycling on paved roads and designated bike trails only.
- For your safety while hiking, stay on the established trails and watch your footing at all times.
- Poison ivy and ticks are common in the parks. Learn to recognize poison ivy in order to avoid this plant. Stay on trails and avoid bushy areas. Wearing a hat, long pants, and a long-sleeved shirt helps, too.
- Avoid hypothermia (the dangerous lowering of body temperature) by keeping dry. Dress in layers that can be easily removed or added as you heat up or cool down.
- All natural and cultural objects are protected by law. Do not collect or disturb rocks, animals, or plants, including wildflowers or dead trees.
- Parking is limited in Washington, D.C. Metro is a good alternative to driving your vehicle in town.
Contact each park site for more information or to discuss accessibility issues. more...
