Fort Mott State Park

Fort Mott State Park is a Delaware River history stop in Pennsville, Salem County. You can walk the former coastal-defense grounds, look out over the river and learn how this once self-contained Army post protected the waterway. It works well as a focused history visit or as one stop on a longer Salem County day trip.

Why Fort Mott matters

The fort was part of a three-fort defense system planned after the Civil War. Construction of the surviving batteries began in the 1890s; troops were regularly stationed here from 1897 to 1922. Its large guns guarded the Delaware River through the Spanish–American War and World War I, although the fort never fired in battle. At its peak, the post included barracks, family housing, a hospital, library, school and other services for a garrison of about 400.

What to see on the grounds

Start with the concrete gun batteries and interpretive signs, then follow the self-guided walking route. The park museum explains the site’s military history. The riverfront also has walking and picnic areas. Finn’s Point National Cemetery is part of the area’s wider historic landscape; check its separate visitor information if you plan to stop there.

Plan your visit

The park is at 454 Fort Mott Road, Pennsville, NJ 08070. The New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection lists free park admission, with possible fees for some programs. Its posted October–April park hours are 8 a.m.–4 p.m.; hours change by season and the park closes on certain holidays. Museum access, tours and seasonal ferry service can differ from general grounds access. Check the official Fort Mott visitor page or call 856-935-3218 before making a special trip.

Make a South Jersey history day of it

Explore more stops through our Salem County guide, or browse things to do across South Jersey. This guide is for trip planning; the state park remains the source for current access rules and programs.

History, address, admission and seasonal hours checked against NJDEP on October 10, 2026. Original rendering created for WhatsUpSJ. Directory data may include OpenStreetMap contributions. © OpenStreetMap contributors.