Fort Dupont Park

A Forested Civil War Relic in the City

Located in southeast DC sits Fort Dupont Park, a sprawling 376-acre woodland retreat that feels worlds away from the urban bustle. Managed by the National Park Service, this green sanctuary isn't just a pretty face - it's got some serious history under its belt, named after a Civil War-era fort that once stood guard over the capital.

If you're a history buff, you'll appreciate the visible remnants of Fort Dupont's earthworks near the Alabama Avenue picnic area. These six-sided defensive structures date back to 1861, part of a network built to protect Washington during the Civil War. There's something humbling about standing where soldiers once kept watch over the city.

Nature's Playground

The real charm of Fort Dupont lies in its natural beauty. Hiking and biking trails meander through forested hills, offering a peaceful escape beneath the canopy of oak, beech, and maple trees.

Come springtime, the woodland floor transforms as patches of mountain laurel burst into bloom - a delightful surprise for anyone wandering the trails during this season.

Sponsored content

AD

National Portrait Gallery & American Art Museum Semi-Private Tour

Step into history at the National Portrait Gallery, a pinnacle of DC's cultural landscape. Explore its classic Greek Revival architecture with an expert guide in a semi-private tour (6 or fewer guests).

$129.00

View Details

Get Active or Kick Back

If you're looking to break a sweat or simply relax, Fort Dupont offers several options. The park boasts impressive sports facilities including tennis courts, basketball courts, and athletic fields for the actively inclined. There's even an indoor ice skating rink - a unique feature for a DC park!

Prefer something more laid-back? Grab a picnic basket and claim one of the reservable picnic areas (available spring through fall). Or roll up your sleeves at the community garden, where you can grow your own fruits and vegetables alongside fellow green thumbs.

Far From Just a Park

Fort Dupont functions as a community space, hosting concerts, environmental education programs, and ranger-led tours that bring the park's Civil War history to life.

Beyond recreation, this green space is important for DC residents, especially those east of the Anacostia River, offering a natural area where people can experience nature without leaving the city limits.