Fort Foote Park
Maryland
Fort Foote was constructed in 1863 atop Rozier's Bluff to strengthen the ring of fortifications that encircled Washington, D.C. Two of the Guns that protected Washington are still there along with the remains of the fort's earthworks.
About Fort Foote Park
Fort Foote Park is a park located in Maryland. Summers are generally hot and humid, with daytime highs frequently above 90 degrees Fahrenheit and scattered afternoon thunderstorms. Please carry water while participating in physical activity and be prepared to take shelter from lightning. Winters are generally cold, with nighttime lows frequently near freezing and occasional snowfall. Weather during spring and fall is generally moderate, but can change quickly.
From the Beltway (I495/I95), take Exit 3, Indian Head Highway south (MD210/Indian Head Highway) and drive for approximately 3.5 miles to Old Fort Road. Turn right for 1 mile to Fort Foote Road S, turn left. Follow the winding road through the residential area to entrance sight on the left for the fort. If driving north on MD210/Indian Head Highway turn left onto the 2nd Old Fort Road you come to (Old Fort Rd cross 210 twice). There will be a McDonald's on your left at the correct traffic light.
💰 Entrance Fees & Passes
Entry to Fort Foote is completely free. There are no general entrance fees or vehicle passes required to access this park unit.
🥾 Things to Do
Fort Foote Park offers visitors a diverse selection of outdoor experiences. You can participate in a wide array of activities, most notably Hiking, depending on the season and weather conditions. Path options exist for both casual strollers and expert backcountry adventurers.
📦 Recommended Gear & Packing Checklist
Custom items selected for activities at Fort Foote
📋 Visitor Planning Tips for Fort Foote
- →Beat the Crowds: Arrive at the main gates or trailheads of Fort Foote before 8:00 AM. Parking spaces at popular locations fill up extremely fast, especially during warm peak season weekends.
- →Verify Conditions: Weather and trail accessibility inside Fort Foote can change rapidly. Always verify the latest road conditions and local weather advisories before starting your trek.
- →Leave No Trace: Help protect the delicate ecosystems of Fort Foote. Stay on marked trails, pack out all of your waste, and keep a respectful distance from wildlife.
Fort Foote was constructed in 1863 atop Rozier's Bluff to strengthen the ring of fortifications that encircled Washington, D.C. Two of the Guns that protected Washington are still there along with the remains of the fort's earthworks.
Frequently Asked Questions about Fort Foote
About the Author
James R. Mitchell
Founder & Lead Writer — National Park Data
James has visited all 63 designated US national parks and has been writing about outdoor travel for over 12 years. He spent 8 years as a wilderness guide in the Rocky Mountains before founding National Park Data to help visitors plan better, safer, and more enjoyable park trips.
More Parks Nearby
Antietam
23,000 soldiers were killed, wounded or missing after twelve hours of savage combat on September 17, 1862. The Battle of…
Appalachian
The Appalachian Trail is a 2,190+ mile long public footpath that traverses the scenic, wooded, pastoral, wild, and culturally resonant…
Assateague Island
Want to live on the edge? Visit a place recreated each day by ocean wind and waves. Life on Assateague…
Baltimore-Washington
This 29-mile highway connects Baltimore, MD and Washington, D.C. The parkway has carried visitors to and from the capital city…
Captain John Smith Chesapeake
People first arrived in the Chesapeake Bay during the last ice age. As glaciers melted, diverse societies learned to thrive…
Catoctin Mountain
President Franklin D. Roosevelt created programs to give people a chance to rebuild their lives from the Great Depression. The…