Each year, hundreds of thousands of people travel to Frederick County to revel in our parks and recreational amenities. Highlighted by the Catoctin Mountains and the Potomac River, our 90 national, state, county, and municipal park facilities offer a wide variety of recreational activities such as swimming, boating, camping, skating, horseback riding, and nature programs in environments ranging from urban city parks to wilderness reserves. Wonderful outdoor experiences are to be enjoyed in every season.
75-80 Dragway opened its gates in 1960. This dragstrip is in the heart of Monrovia, MD and is loved by many racers and fans. Come watch and listen to the engines roar as racers compete in heads up racing, there is really nothing quite like this experience. You can also enjoy one of our famous chili dogs and a fresh squeezed lemonade. We hope to see you there!
40 miles of the 2,170-mile Appalachian Trail follow the western border of Frederick County, much of it along South Mountain. A popular place to begin exploring the trail is at Gathland State Park (see Civil War) near Burkittsville. ATC Headquarters visitor center and trail store is located in Harpers Ferry, West Virginia.
Downtown Frederick's 44-acre park features a carillon, band shell, tennis courts, softball and baseball field, Culler Lake, a public swimming pool, and numerous playgrounds for children. Park features concerts and children's theater in the summer and numerous outdoor events throughout the year.
The Catoctin Mountain offer a wealth of scenery, wildlife, wildflowers, historic buildings, hiking trails, scenic drives, camping, and fly-fishing. Looking for something different? Try spending the night in an historic cabin in Camp Misty Mount; for reservations call (301) 271-3140. Pets, on leashes, are permitted in outdoor areas but not in buildings.
The park, located west of Thurmont, is named for a 78-foot cascading waterfall. Hiking, swimming, hunting, fishing, picnicking, boating, playgrounds, 13 camper cabins, and 180 campsites in two areas available seasonally. The William Houck area has a 43 acre lake and trail to the Falls; Manor area includes Catoctin Furnace. Some facilities are handicapped accessible.
Tucked away, west of Walkersville, is the beautiful 22.5 acre Fountain Rock Park. It contains one of Maryland's strongest springs, from which 3.25 million gallons of water may flow per day.
Gambrill State Park, located west of Frederick, provides miles of hiking, biking, and horse trails with stunning overlooks of the surrounding area. A 34-campsite, four-camper cabin campground is available seasonally. See beautiful views from three overlooks, picnic shelters for rent, and the Tearoom, available for reservations. Some facilities are handicapped accessible.
A unique War Correspondent's Memorial Arch, constructed by journalist and author George Alfred Townsend. On his former estate, the George Alfred Townsend Museum is open weekends. Apr-Oct 12-5pm. Hike through the park on the Appalachian Trail. Picnic pavilion. Periodic Civil War living histories and encampments. One building is handicapped accessible.
Catoctin Mt. Nat'l Scenic Byway
Heart of the Civil War Heritage Area
Historic Sites Consortium