Perhaps more so than any other region, Northern Frederick County showcases the fabulous natural wonders that abound here. The picturesque Catoctin Mountains serve as the setting for several parks and many of the local attractions you’ll want to see. Collectively, our Catoctin Mountain National Park, Cunningham Falls State Park, and Gambrill State Park are a nature lover’s paradise, offering unparalleled outdoor experiences which include picnicking, boating, swimming, camping, fly fishing, rock climbing, hiking and horse trails, wildlife observation, fly-fishing, and a 78 foot cascading waterfall. Given this, it’s not surprising that the Catoctin Mountains quarter Camp David, the Presidential Retreat.

Regardless of whether you set foot in a park, you’ll feel apart of nature. Both national highways and country roads roll across the mountain ridge offering spectacular views of forests, orchards, and more. Get off the main road near Thurmont and take in our three covered bridges, all within a few miles of one another. See the remains of the by-gone iron industry with a self-guided tour of the Catoctin Iron Furnace. Kids and adults alike will love the hundreds of exotic animals found at Catoctin Wildlife Preserve and Zoo.

Farther to the north in Emmitsburg, is the Grotto of the Lourdes, a transforming Catholic shrine and garden area where upwards of one million visitors collect the natural spring waters and attend services. Elizabeth Ann Seton, the first American born canonized saint is honored with a shrine and educational exhibit nearby. Equally inspiring is the National Fallen Firefighters Memorial Park on the grounds of the National Emergency Training Center.

Just minutes away from this region is the Pennsylvania border where you can explore Gettysburg National Battlefield and enjoy nearby skiing during the winter months. Stay with us and see it all!

MAP IT
Click on the map below to view an interactive map of North Frederick.