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FacilityCampgroundRecreation.gov

Fort Dupont Park Picnic Areas

Washington Navy Yard, District of Columbia · District of Columbia County · Campground

Overview Fort Dupont Park has three picnic areas that groups may reserve from spring to fall each year. There are also picnic areas available on first-come, first-served (no reservation required).Recreation The varied seasonal activities at this spacious area east of the Anacostia River include: picnic areas, hiking tr…

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38.86278, -76.97000
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About Fort Dupont Park Picnic Areas

Overview Fort Dupont Park has three picnic areas that groups may reserve from spring to fall each year. There are also picnic areas available on first-come, first-served (no reservation required).Recreation The varied seasonal activities at this spacious area east of the Anacostia River include: picnic areas, hiking trails, Civil War programs, gardening, environmental education, concerts and special events, mountain biking and youth programs. Visit Fort Dupont's Things to Do web page.Facilities The three reservable picnic areas at Fort Dupont are::Picnic areas A and B at Randle Circle. Both of these offer picnic tables, a grill and a nearby restroom building and playground. Electricity is not available on site. These areas have street parking but there is also a larger parking lot less than 1/4 mile from the picnic area. This site is also close to several park nature trails and the Fort Dupont Activity Center that has exhibits and other information about the park. No other amenities are available. The Historic Earthwork (Lanham Estates) picnic area on Alabama Avenue. This area offers a picnic shelter, tables, grill and a fireplace. Electricity is not available on site. This site also has an adjacent parking lot with open space nearby for playing games but there are no formal ball fields. This is also in the historic area of the park that contains the earthwork remnants of Fort Dupont and interpretive signage that give the history of the fort. This picnic area also offers access to the seven-mile Fort Circle Parks Hiker-Biker Trail, a seven mile trail that connects multiple fort sites in southeast Washington, D.C.. Natural Features Fort Dupont Park has 376 rolling wooded acres (152 ha), and is one of the largest parks in Washington D.C. Oak, beech and maple trees cover the hillsides. There is also a large area of mountain laurel that blooms in the spring each year. Contact Info For facility specific information, please call (771) 233-3973. Nearby Attractions Visitors

What to Pack for Your Stay

Tuned to the live forecast for this park.

👔 What to Wear

  • 👕
    Moisture-wicking T-shirt
    Light color, breathable.
  • 🩳
    Lightweight shorts or pants
    Quick-dry preferred — sweat dries fast.
  • 🧢
    Brimmed sun hat
    Better than a cap for back-of-neck protection.
  • 🥾
    Trail runners
    Breathable mesh uppers.

🎒 What to Pack

  • 💧
    Water
    Bring at least 1L of water; more in heat.
  • 🍫
    High-energy snacks
    A snack for the trail.
  • 🧴
    Sun protection
    Sunscreen, sunglasses, brimmed hat.
  • 🩹
    First-aid kit
    Blister patches, ibuprofen, tape, antiseptic wipes.
  • 🗺
    Offline map
    Download your route in advance via Gaia, Caltopo, or OSM-based apps.

Recommendations adapt to the current forecast + trail stats. Use them as a starting point — local conditions, your experience, and the time of day you start all matter.

Plan Your Visit to Fort Dupont Park Picnic Areas

Heading to Fort Dupont Park Picnic Areas? A few things to know before you go:

  • Reservations: popular sites fill up fast — check Recreation.gov 6 months in advance
  • Fees: day-use and camping fees vary; check current rates on the official park page
  • Trash & pack-out: follow Leave No Trace principles
  • Wildlife: store food in bear boxes where provided; never feed wildlife
  • Weather: the 5-day forecast above is updated every 6 hours; verify just before you go

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a reservation for Fort Dupont Park Picnic Areas?

No central reservation system listed for Fort Dupont Park Picnic Areas. Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/250017) for the latest entry policy and availability.

How do I get to Fort Dupont Park Picnic Areas?

Please visit the Fort Dupont's Directions web page for detailed directions.

How do I contact Fort Dupont Park Picnic Areas?

You can reach the park at phone: 202-690-5152 or email: FortDupontInfo@nps.gov.