Fort Stanton Park

A Window to the Civil War

Perched on historic hilltops in Southeast DC, Fort Stanton Park has been quietly preserving a piece of American history since 1926. Walk through these grounds and you're literally stepping where Union soldiers once stood, manning the defenses of Fort Stanton during the Civil War. Named after Edwin Stanton (Lincoln's Secretary of War), this fort was part of an impressive network built to protect Washington, DC when the capital was vulnerable.

If you venture into the wooded areas, you can still spot earthworks and ditches dating back to the 1860s - subtle reminders of the strategic military position this high ground once held.

Natural Escape in the City

Spread across more than 150 acres, this urban woodland offers a surprising retreat from city life. Deep stream valleys cut through the landscape, while magnificent tulip trees tower overhead, some reaching heights that'll make you crane your neck. Small rock outcroppings scattered throughout add character to your explorations.

Outdoor enthusiasts will appreciate that Fort Stanton houses one of only two designated hiking trails in all of Ward 8. The southernmost mile of the Fort Circle Hiker-Biker Trail winds through here, connecting visitors to a larger network of historic Civil War defense sites.

What You'll Find

Beyond its natural beauty, Fort Stanton Park offers practical amenities. The park includes a recreation center for activities, an urban farm where local food initiatives take root, and even hosts a reservoir for DC Water.

Its location just a short walk from the Anacostia Community Museum makes it easy to combine outdoor recreation with cultural exploration - great for making a day of your visit.

Challenges and Renewal

Like many urban green spaces, Fort Stanton has weathered its share of environmental challenges. Parts of the park have suffered from littering and illegal dumping over the years. Meanwhile, aggressive invasive plants - kudzu, bittersweet, Asian wisteria, and Japanese knotweed - have encroached on the native forest.

Yet there's hope in the form of dedicated conservation work. Organizations like the Ward 8 Woods Conservancy have been rolling up their sleeves to clear trash and restore the ecosystem to its natural state.

Today, Fort Stanton Park is both a historical landmark and a community resource, offering recreational opportunities and a tangible connection to DC's Civil War legacy.