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.
The C&O Canal NHP preserves the remains of the historic Chesapeake and Ohio Canal as well as valuable wild spaces along the Potomac River shoreline from Washington DC to Cumberland MD. The Canal’s entire 185-mile long towpath is restored, open to hikers and bikers year ‘round and is accessible from many points in Frederick County including the Mouth of Monocacy Road near Dickerson, Nolands Ferry, Point of Rocks, Lander and Brunswick. Mule-drawn canal boat rides are offered at Great Falls MD and in Georgetown DC, Apr-Oct, Wed-Sun 11am, 1:30 & 3pm. Call 301-767-3714or visit the website.
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.
Pool. Daily/weekly/monthly rates and yearly lease sites. Three-way, water-electric, and tent spaces. Cabins, brook-front sites, lake, hiking. Flush toilets, hot showers. Store and game room. Pets welcome. Families.
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.
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.
Hostel provides safe economical overnight accommodations for individuals, families and groups in dorm rooms, private family rooms or camping. Fully furnished kitchen and common area available for guests. Group rates available. Open Mar 15 - Nov 15. Open for groups of 10 or more Nov 15 - Mar 14 with 2 night minimum stay.
Luxury log cabins: 1, 2, and 4 bedroom, living room with fireplace, equipped kitchen, bath. Log cabinettes: with bunks and kitchenette, some pet friendly, Conference Lodge: Day and overnight accommodations. Exclusive yearly-leased campsites. Outdoor swimming pool, playground, fishing and game room.
Catoctin Mt. Nat'l Scenic Byway
Heart of the Civil War Heritage Area
Historic Sites Consortium