Fort Independence

Fort Independence occupies the center of Castle Island. The exterior loop is generally available during park hours, but interior tours are seasonal and event closures are common.

A free lot is near Fort Independence, with metered street parking along the beaches. Summer weekends and special events fill early and may use traffic controls.

The reservation is open sunrise to sunset. Fort tours, lifeguards, restrooms, showers, concessions, and events use seasonal or separate schedules.

Accessible restrooms are available at Castle Island and Carson Beach; rinsing showers and first-aid or lifeguard facilities are seasonal.

General park, beach, loop, playground, and fort exterior access is free. Food, bus parking, and some organized activities cost separately.

The site has accessible restrooms, an accessible Pleasure Bay trail, seasonal beach mats and beach wheelchairs, and accessible picnicking at Carson Beach.

Dogs are allowed under DCR rules but are prohibited on beaches May 1 through September 15. Leash and cleanup requirements still apply elsewhere.

The short fort loop, playground, planes and ships, beach, picnic space, and food make an easy family outing. Supervise closely at seawalls and water.

Fort Independence occupies the center of Castle Island. The exterior loop is generally available during park hours, but interior tours are seasonal and event closures are common. Check water quality, lifeguard status, tide, wind, heat, thunderstorms, fort-tour hours, event security, and parking. Swimming is only safe when conditions permit.

The area is transit friendly, but the final walk can be exposed. Cycling and rideshare are useful when the lot is full; confirm return service after events.