Fort Lincoln Park

A Glimpse into History

Tucked away in DC's northeastern corner, Fort Lincoln Park spreads across 29 acres between Fort Lincoln Drive NE and Commodore Joshua Barney Drive NE, just a stone's throw from the Maryland border. This green space represents a piece of American history.

Originally constructed as one of seven temporary earthwork fortifications during the Civil War, it formed part of the Civil War Defenses of Washington, D.C., standing guard against potential Confederate attacks.

Thoughtful Design Meets Dramatic Landscape

The park's varied topography offers good views of the District. In the 1970s, renowned landscape architect M. Paul Friedberg reimagined the space, working with its dramatic elevation changes rather than against them.

The heart of the park sits between the Theodore Hagans Cultural Center to the south and the Fort Lincoln Park Community Center to the north, creating a central corridor that anchors the entire space.

What You'll Find There

The central area boasts some distinctive features, including an eye-catching brick fountain with towers, a sunken play area designed to mimic a fort (complete with "brick scramble" paving), and rustic railroad tie walls that add character to the landscape.

Kids will love exploring the playground with its fort-inspired structures, swings, and play equipment. History buffs will appreciate that some original fort elements remain intact, offering both a fun play space and a subtle history lesson.

Over the years, Fort Lincoln has seen renovations that improved accessibility and added new amenities while preserving much of Friedberg's original 1970s vision.

Getting Active

Tennis players, take note: the tennis courts here are some of DC's finest public courts. There's even a practice wall for those solo training sessions when you can't find a partner.

You'll also find baseball fields (note that permits are required for organized games) and basketball courts ideal for pickup games. With its varied terrain and winding paths, the park makes for a great walking or jogging spot when you need to clear your head.

Gathering Spaces

If you're planning a get-together, Fort Lincoln offers several powered gazebos and pavilions available for reservation.

The hilltop area offers particularly nice picnic spots with benches nestled under shade trees - ideal for family reunions, weekend cookouts, or just enjoying a peaceful lunch away from the office. These natural gathering spaces have become neighborhood favorites for all kinds of community events.