Fort Craig

Fort Craig is a Civil War fort in Arlington County that spans across elevated terrain with stone walls and fortified structures designed for defense and observation. The site displays the physical layout of this military installation with preserved earthworks and various structural remains.

The fort was built in 1861 in response to the outbreak of the Civil War and served as part of a comprehensive defensive ring around the nation's capital. It played a role in military strategy to protect Washington during the conflict.

The fort was part of a larger network of defenses that shaped how soldiers lived and worked in the region during wartime. Today, visitors can sense this military presence through the preserved structures and layout of the grounds.

The site is accessible to foot traffic and features interpretive signs at various locations explaining the military purpose of different structures. Walking trails through the grounds allow visitors to explore the various parts of the fortification.

The elevated location of the fort gave soldiers strategic advantages in observing movements across a wide area. This geographic position contributed significantly to its effectiveness within the defensive network.

Location: Arlington County

Inception: August 1861

Part of: Civil War defenses of Washington, D.C.

GPS coordinates: 38.87040,-77.08160

Latest update: December 14, 2025 18:09