The fort was named after John Eager Howard, a Revolutionary War hero and former Governor of Maryland.
It was strategically designed to protect the Port of Baltimore using large coastal defense guns during the late 1890s.
The military base was decommissioned in the 1940s before being repurposed for public recreation.
Several of the original concrete battery structures remain intact and are accessible for public viewing.
The park is a designated site on the Star-Spangled Banner National Historic Trail.
Fort Howard Park is a 78-acre public waterfront park located on the Patapsco River, formerly serving as a significant military installation. The site features extensive ruins of concrete artillery batteries from the Spanish-American War era that visitors can explore. It provides direct access to the Chesapeake Bay with a fishing pier and a boat ramp. The grounds include walking trails that weave through remnants of the old fort’s infrastructure. Picnic pavilions and open green spaces are available throughout the property. The park holds historical significance for its role in protecting Baltimore Harbor during the early 20th century. Bird watching is a primary activity due to the park's position along the Atlantic Flyway.
The elevated overlook atop the concrete artillery batteries facing the Chesapeake Bay.
Bring a flashlight to better explore the darker, accessible sections of the concrete battery ruins.
Wear sturdy, closed-toe shoes as the terrain around the historic ruins can be uneven and rocky.
Check the local weather for wind conditions before planning a fishing trip, as the waterfront can get gusty.
Do not attempt to enter sealed-off tunnels or restricted zones within the old batteries for safety reasons.
Open daily from dawn to dusk; may close during extreme weather events or severe storm warnings.
Remain on marked paths when exploring ruins; do not climb on unstable structural elements; pack out all trash.
