A woman in period clothing takes in the modern day view from a spot near where Abraham Lincoln stood and watched the Battle of Fort Stevens unfold in July of 1864.
Civil War Defenses of Washington
· DC, MD, VA
On forested hills surrounding the nation's capital are the remnants of a complex system of Civil War fortifications. These strategic buttresses transformed the young capital into one of the world's most fortified cities. By 1865, 68 forts and 93 batteries armed with over 800 cannons encircled Washington, DC. Today, you can visit 18 of the original sites now managed by the National Park Service.
Park report
Alert: Park Closure
How this is rated
Poor: closures/hazards · Fair: cautions/noticesPart of Fort Totten Park remains closed for public safety
Entrance Fee
How this is rated
Good: free entryFree — no entrance fee
Activities Available
How this is rated
Good: many activities available16 activities
Park Name
InfoCivil War Defenses of Washington
Designation
InfoNational Park Area
State(s)
InfoDC, MD, VA
Phone
Info202-895-6000
rocr_superintendent@nps.gov
Operating Hours
InfoThe park grounds at Battery Kemble, Battleground National Cemetery, Fort Bayard, Fort Bunker Hill, Fort DeRussy, Fort Reno, Fort Slocum, Fort Stevens, and Fort Totten are managed by Rock Creek Park These sites are open daily from dawn to dusk.
Campgrounds
InfoNo campgrounds listed
Themes & Topics
InfoBurial, Cemetery and Gravesite, National Cemetery, Enslavement + 17 more
Weather Info
InfoCheck the weather forecast for each individual site for accurate information.
Getting There
InfoDirections vary based on your preference of site.
Location
Info38.9644° N, -77.0292° W
Data from official federal recreation records. Updated periodically. Park conditions change — always verify with the park before visiting. Verify on official park website