Peaceful place to walk around and look at the water. There is a tabby wall c. 1700s; the only remnant of the old fort.   The park is small. If you are looking for a place to explore and walk, this is not the park for that. It’s a green space that is best for quiet time.
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Fort Frederick Heritage Preserve Camp Saxton

4.7
·53 reviews·Port Royal, United States

Explore the historic tabby ruins of Fort Frederick and stand where the first Emancipation Proclamation was read.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, more peaceful exploration

CrowdLow
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Peaceful place to walk around and look at the water. There is a tabby wall c. 1700s; the only remnant of the old fort.   The park is small. If you are looking for a place to explore and walk, this is not the park for that. It’s a green space that is best for quiet time.

Fort Frederick Heritage Preserve Camp Saxton

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, more peaceful exploration

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Explore the historic tabby ruins of Fort Frederick and stand where the first Emancipation Proclamation was read.

4.7
(53 reviews)

"Fascinating history of a precursor of cement construction and an interesting segue into slavery and emancipation."

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TIP

🚶‍♀️ Explore the Storyboards

Read the informative storyboards to fully grasp the fort's history and significance.

🦀 Watch for Wildlife

Keep an eye out for local birds and occasional dolphins in the river.

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Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Fort Frederick Ruins

Fort Frederick Ruins

Main fort area

Discover the substantial tabby construction remnants of this historic fort, a precursor to modern cement techniques.

Emancipation Proclamation Site

Emancipation Proclamation Site

Designated historical marker

Stand where the first Emancipation Proclamation was read, a pivotal moment in American history.

Scenic River Views

Scenic River Views

Along the riverfront

Enjoy exceptional views of the river from the fort's ruins and surrounding preserve.

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Uncover Early American History

Explore the remnants of Fort Frederick, a significant tabby construction site and the location of the first Emancipation Proclamation reading. Learn about its history through informative storyboards.

Nature and Wildlife Spotting

Enjoy the scenic views of the river and keep an eye out for diverse bird species. Dolphins are also known to frequent the area, adding to the natural beauty of the preserve.

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, more peaceful exploration
Crowd
Low
When
Afternoons
Why
Good for birdwatching and potential dolphin sightings
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

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@hannalysssa
11.7K likes • 154.1K views

🚶‍♀️ Explore the Storyboards

Read the informative storyboards to fully grasp the fort's history and significance. Reddit

🦀 Watch for Wildlife

Keep an eye out for local birds and occasional dolphins in the river. Reddit

🧺 Picnic Spot Available

Enjoy a meal at the covered picnic area with scenic views. Reddit

🦀 Observe Tabby Construction

Admire the unique tabby construction of the fort's substantial wall remnants. Reddit

Tips

from all over the internet

🚶‍♀️ Explore the Storyboards

Read the informative storyboards to fully grasp the fort's history and significance. Reddit

🦀 Watch for Wildlife

Keep an eye out for local birds and occasional dolphins in the river. Reddit

🧺 Picnic Spot Available

Enjoy a meal at the covered picnic area with scenic views. Reddit

🦀 Observe Tabby Construction

Admire the unique tabby construction of the fort's substantial wall remnants. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.7
(53 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors appreciate Fort Frederick Heritage Preserve for its significant historical context, particularly its role in the Emancipation Proclamation and its unique tabby construction. The scenic river views and opportunities for wildlife spotting add to its appeal, making it a worthwhile stop for history enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.

"Not much of the old fort remains but there is plenty of history to be found here. The information boards cover the just of the site’s history, plenty of birds to see, dolphins on occasion and usually a local or two who doesn’t mind chatting about the fort and more recent history."

Jess

"This is a nice area dedicated to Fort Frederick. While this was a small fort that didn’t see and battles it is significant for when it was constructed, its tabby construction and the site of the first reading of the Emancipation Proclamation. Scenic area and good to see the remains of the fort. Storyboards give details of its history , as well as historical significance."

Charlene Mixa

"I love history and historical sites. Even though not a whole lot is left of the actual fort from back then there are still remnants of the original walls.
Fascinating history of a precursor of cement construction that was used here and an interesting segue into slavery and emancipation right there as well."

Geart Bakker

What People Like

Historical significance
Tabby construction
Scenic river views

What People Dislike

Limited remaining fort structure

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Fort Frederick Heritage Preserve is located near the coast. While specific public transport options might be limited, driving is the most common way to access the preserve. Check local maps for the best route from your starting point. Reddit

Yes, parking is typically available at the preserve, allowing for easy access to the historical site and surrounding nature. Reddit

The preserve is best explored on foot. Wear comfortable shoes to walk around the fort ruins and along the riverfront. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Entry to Fort Frederick Heritage Preserve is generally free, making it an accessible historical site for all visitors. Reddit

Operating hours can vary, so it's advisable to check local listings or the preserve's official information before your visit to ensure it's open. Reddit

Yes, you can get a good sense of the history and see the main ruins in a relatively short visit, though you could spend longer enjoying the scenery. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

You can explore the substantial tabby construction remnants of the fort, read informative storyboards about its history, and enjoy scenic river views. Keep an eye out for birds and occasional dolphins. Reddit

Absolutely! It's significant for its tabby construction and, more importantly, as the site where the first Emancipation Proclamation was read. Reddit

The preserve offers a covered picnic area, making it a pleasant spot for a meal amidst the historical and natural surroundings. Reddit

While specific pet policies can vary, it's generally recommended to check local regulations or signage at the preserve regarding pets. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The ruins of the fort itself offer great photographic opportunities, especially with the river as a backdrop. The natural scenery also provides beautiful shots. Reddit

Yes, photography is generally allowed throughout the preserve for personal use. Be mindful of any historical markers or sensitive areas. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Fort Frederick Heritage Preserve offers a blend of history and nature that can engage families. Kids can explore the fort ruins, imagining life in the past, and the storyboards provide digestible historical facts. The open spaces are great for running around, and the chance to spot birds or even dolphins adds an element of wildlife discovery. Reddit

Pack a picnic to enjoy at the covered area, making it a relaxed outing. Encourage children to look closely at the unique tabby construction – it's a hands-on way to learn about how things were built. Remember comfortable shoes for exploring the grounds. Reddit

🏛️ History Buffs

For those passionate about history, Fort Frederick is a must-visit. The substantial tabby construction is a rare find and a testament to early building techniques. The site's role in the reading of the first Emancipation Proclamation adds a layer of profound significance that resonates deeply. Reddit

Take your time to read through all the informative storyboards to gain a comprehensive understanding of the fort's past and its place in American history. The scenic river views provide a contemplative backdrop for appreciating the historical context. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Unique Tabby Construction

Fort Frederick Heritage Preserve is notable for its tabby construction, a building material made from a mixture of lime, sand, shells, and water. This method was a precursor to modern cement and was commonly used in coastal areas of the southeastern United States. The substantial remnants of the fort's walls showcase this fascinating historical building technique, offering a tangible connection to the past. Visitors often express surprise and interest in how these structures were built so long ago. Reddit

Exploring these tabby ruins provides insight into the ingenuity of early builders. The material's durability is evident in the surviving portions of the fort, which have withstood the test of time. It's a unique aspect that sets Fort Frederick apart from other historical sites, making it a point of interest for those fascinated by architectural history and early construction methods. Reddit

A Site of Profound Historical Significance

Beyond its architectural interest, Fort Frederick holds a place of immense historical importance as the site where the first Emancipation Proclamation was read. This event marked a crucial step towards the abolition of slavery in the United States. The preserve commemorates this pivotal moment, offering visitors a chance to reflect on the struggles and triumphs of that era. Informative storyboards detail the context and impact of this reading, enriching the visitor's understanding. Reddit

This dual significance—historical construction and a landmark event in the fight for freedom—makes Fort Frederick a compelling destination. It's a place where visitors can connect with both the practical history of building and the profound social and political history that shaped the nation. The preserve serves as a quiet yet powerful reminder of these intertwined narratives. Reddit

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