Fort Frederick

Fort Frederick is a stone military structure in Maryland featuring four corner bastions and thick outer walls. The quadrangular layout anchors a state park that includes hiking trails, camping areas, and a nature reserve surrounding the fort.

The fort was built in 1756 during the French and Indian War to defend against attacks on settlers. Later it became a prison during the American Revolution.

The fort demonstrates how colonial settlers built their defensive structures, with thick stone walls and straightforward interior layouts. Walking through the ruins today, visitors can sense how daily life operated within these military spaces.

The site is accessible year-round with walking trails throughout the grounds suitable for different abilities. Picnic areas and overlook points are freely available to explore at your own pace.

The stone walls have survived centuries and still display bullet marks and weather-worn surfaces from the battles fought here. These scars tell a silent story written directly onto the structure itself.

Location: Washington County

Inception: 1922

Operator: Maryland Park Service

Website: https://dnr.maryland.gov/publiclands/Pages/western/fortfrederick.aspx

GPS coordinates: 39.60917,-78.02139

Latest update: December 8, 2025 19:51