Fort Howard Park in Maryland: Playground, Military Battery Ruins & Waterfront Views (Family Guide)
Explore Fort Howard Park in Baltimore County, MD with kids. Discover historic military battery ruins, a waterfront playground, Chesapeake Bay views, and a free, easy day trip idea.
Estimated reading time: 10 minutes
If you’re looking for one of those “why didn’t we come here sooner?” Maryland parks… Fort Howard Park might be it.
Tucked at the southeastern tip of Baltimore County, just down the road from North Point State Park, this waterfront park has that perfect mix of wide-open space and quiet intrigue. Big trees. Rolling grass. Chesapeake Bay views. A playground overlooking the water. And then — almost unexpectedly — these massive concrete military battery ruins that feel like something straight out of a history documentary.
For Maryland families who like parks with a little personality? This one is a winner.
And yes — you can absolutely pair it with North Point State Park for a full, easy, memory-making day trip.
Related: Another great park in the area is Double Rock Park
Quick Info for Planning Your Visit
Here’s the super practical stuff you’ll want before you go:
Fort Howard Park
9500 North Point Road
Fort Howard, MD 21052
Managed by: Baltimore County Department of Recreation & Parks
Hours:
Open daily from sunrise to sunset
Admission:
Free
Parking:
Free on-site parking lots
Restrooms:
Seasonal portable restrooms available
Dog Friendly:
Yes (leashed)
No entry fee, gate line, or parking headaches. That alone makes this park incredibly appealing for families.
Related: The Gunpowder Falls State Park Central Area is nearby
Why Fort Howard Park Is Such a Great Surprise
When we first pulled in, I expected “nice waterfront park.” And yes — it is that.
But it’s more than that.
The park sits right on the Chesapeake Bay, with wide water views and breezy open spaces. Mature trees provide shade across much of the lawn, making it feel comfortable even on warm days.
There’s something about the combination of:
- Waterfront scenery
- Open fields perfect for soccer or kites
- A playground with a view
- Historic military ruins you can actually walk through
It doesn’t feel overly developed or crowded. It feels like one of those hidden Baltimore County gems.
Related: Ft. Washington is another fort in Maryland that is great to visit!
The Military Battery Ruins (The Coolest Part)
Let’s talk about the real star of the show.
The old military battery ruins.
If you have kids who love exploring, climbing, pretending, or asking a million history questions — this section of Fort Howard Park is fascinating.
The large concrete structures are remnants of coastal defense batteries built in the early 1900s to protect Baltimore Harbor. Massive walls. Curved amphitheater-style steps. Open chambers. Heavy concrete platforms.
You can walk through many areas (while being mindful of safety). The scale of it is impressive. And honestly? It feels like a real-life adventure site.
Older kids especially will think it’s cool.
Younger kids will think it’s mysterious.
Parents will think: “This is way more interesting than I expected.”
There’s something about standing on top of those battery structures and looking out over the Chesapeake Bay that connects history and scenery in a really tangible way.
Important note for families:
The structures are old. Some areas have uneven surfaces. You’ll want to keep a close eye on younger children.
But as far as unique Maryland parks go? This is absolutely one of the more memorable ones.
Related: You can tour Ft. McHenry too.. and see where the Star Spangled Banner was written
The Waterfront Views & Shoreline
If you walk beyond the main lawn area, you’ll find rocky shoreline access along the Bay.
It’s not a sandy beach like North Point State Park — it’s more of a natural, rocky waterfront. But for:
- Skipping stones
- Watching boats
- Looking for crabs
- Taking photos
- Just sitting and listening to the water
It’s peaceful and beautiful.
On clear days, the water views stretch wide and open. There’s something calming about this part of the Chesapeake that feels less busy than other waterfront parks.
Bring sunscreen. And maybe a small towel if your kids are the “I need to touch the water” type.
Related: If you want to see a fort from the French and Indian War, check out Fort Frederick
The Playground (With a View)
Yes — there’s a playground. And it’s in a fantastic location.
The playground overlooks the water, which is such a simple but lovely detail.
It’s a modern structure with slides, climbing elements, and space for younger and elementary-aged kids to burn energy. The ground covering is wood chips, and there are benches nearby for parents.
This makes Fort Howard Park especially appealing for mixed-age families:
- Little ones can play.
- Older kids can explore the battery ruins.
- Teens can wander toward the waterfront.
- Parents can breathe.
It’s one of those setups where everyone can do something different without being far apart.
Open Fields & Space to Roam
If you love parks where your kids can just run — this one delivers.
The open grassy fields feel expansive. Perfect for:
- Tossing a football
- Flying a kite
- Playing tag
- Picnicking
- Letting toddlers wobble around safely
There’s plenty of shade thanks to the mature trees. And it doesn’t feel cramped or over-programmed.
It feels like old-school park space. And I love that.
A Little History (Kid-Friendly Version)
Fort Howard was originally part of the United States coastal defense system. The military batteries were designed to protect Baltimore Harbor from naval attack in the early 20th century.
Later, the site was used as a military hospital and even served as a prisoner-of-war camp during World War II.
That’s a lot of history packed into one peaceful waterfront park.
If you have kids studying Maryland history or U.S. military history, this is a cool way to make it tangible.
You’re not just reading about history.
You’re standing inside it.
Pair It With North Point State Park for a Perfect Day Trip
Since Fort Howard Park is just minutes from North Point State Park, this is one of my favorite combo day trip ideas in Baltimore County.
Here’s an easy plan:
Morning:
- Explore North Point’s sandy beach and trails.
Lunch:
- Picnic at Fort Howard Park.
Afternoon:
- Playground time.
- Explore military battery ruins.
- Waterfront walk.
It’s low-cost. Low-stress. And genuinely fun.
If you’re building out Maryland day trip ideas for your blog audience, this pairing is strong.
Who Will Love Fort Howard Park Most?
This park is especially great for:
✔️ Families with kids who like exploring
✔️ Homeschool families studying history
✔️ Parents looking for free things to do in Baltimore County
✔️ Photographers (the battery ruins + waterfront light are gorgeous)
✔️ Families who prefer quieter parks
If you’re looking for splash pads or big event programming — this isn’t that.
If you’re looking for open space, history, and waterfront views — this is absolutely that.
Seasonal Tips
Spring:
Cool breezes, bright green trees, and fewer bugs early in the season.
Summer:
Bring sunscreen and water. It can feel warm in open areas, though the tree canopy helps.
Fall:
This would be stunning with fall foliage. The contrast of colorful trees against the Bay would be beautiful.
Winter:
Open and peaceful — but bundle up. The waterfront wind can be strong.
Practical Tips for Visiting With Kids
- Bring snacks or a picnic.
- Pack water bottles (no concession stand).
- Wear sneakers for exploring the ruins.
- Supervise young children near uneven concrete.
- Bring bug spray in warmer months.
- Check weather before going — windy days feel colder on the water.
Final Thoughts
Fort Howard Park feels like one of those places locals know… but not everyone talks about.
It’s peaceful without being boring.
… historic without feeling like a museum.
And it’s scenic without being crowded.
And for Maryland families who love mixing outdoor space with a little bit of adventure? It’s a surprisingly delightful stop.
If you haven’t been yet — add it to your list.
And if you pair it with North Point State Park, you’ve got yourself a really solid (and totally affordable) day on the Chesapeake Bay.
