Fort Dupont Park

Fort Dupont Park is a large wooded area in Southeast Washington offering trails and recreational spaces for outdoor activities. The grounds include an indoor ice skating rink, mountain biking paths, and designated picnic areas.

An earthwork fort was built here in 1861 to defend Washington during the Civil War and remained active throughout the conflict. This military structure played a role in the city's defensive system during those years of fighting.

The park hosts seasonal music performances that draw performers and audiences from the Washington area together. These events have made this place a gathering spot for residents seeking entertainment and community connection.

You can explore the grounds on foot or by bike using the various trails and paths throughout the area. It is helpful to wear comfortable shoes and bring sun protection or a jacket depending on the season.

Visitors who hike through the grounds can still find visible remnants of the original military fortification scattered across the landscape. These physical traces offer a direct connection to what once stood here.

Location: Washington, D.C.

Inception: 1930s

Elevation above the sea: 50 m

Part of: National Capital Parks-East, Fort Circle Parks

Website: https://nps.gov/fodu

GPS coordinates: 38.87731,-76.94956

Latest update: December 9, 2025 18:49