On October 15, 1966 an Act of Congress (Public Law 89-671) provided for the establishment of Wolf Trap Farm Park (the park's original name) in Fairfax County, Virginia. The park was established "... for the performing arts and related educational programs, and for recreation use in connection therewith..."

Wolf Trap's name was officially changed from Wolf Trap Farm Park to Wolf Trap National Park for the Performing Arts on August 21, 2002 (Public Law 107-219).

Wolf Trap National Park for the Performing Arts is managed by a partnership with the National Park Service and the non-profit, Wolf Trap Foundation for the Performing Arts. Together, these partners offer their talents to manage this unique park, so that all visitors have a great experience.