The 30 Best Trails in Maryland

Gathland State Park, located at 900 Arnoldtown Road in Jefferson, Maryland, is a unique institution that serves as a museum, park, and tourist attraction. The park is home to a large stone monument dedicated to Civil War correspondents, making it a significant historical site. The park also features the Appalachian National Scenic Trail, which passes by the monument base. Formerly the mountain home of Civil War journalist George Alfred Townsend, Gathland State Park showcases a collection of buildings and structures designed and constructed by Townsend in the late 1800s. The main hall and lodge have been partially restored, giving visitors a glimpse into the past.

The Big Slide at Mount Tabor Park at Rocky Ridge is a popular tourist attraction located in Rocky Ridge, Maryland. This park features a massive slide that provides hours of fun for visitors of all ages. With its picturesque surroundings and scenic views, it is the perfect place for families to enjoy a day of outdoor recreation and relaxation. The park is located at 13616 Motters Station Road and is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to experience the beauty of nature in Maryland.

Fountaindale Park is a beautiful recreational area located at 7100-7198 Willowtree Drive South in Middletown, Maryland, United States. This sprawling park offers visitors a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, with lush greenery, scenic walking trails, and a serene fountain at its center. Whether you're looking to enjoy a picnic with family and friends, go for a leisurely stroll, or simply relax and unwind in nature, Fountaindale Park is the perfect destination. With its tranquil atmosphere and picturesque surroundings, this park is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike to enjoy the great outdoors.

Carroll Creek Park is a picturesque park located at 424 East Patrick Street in Frederick, Maryland. This beautiful park offers a peaceful and serene escape from the hustle and bustle of city life, with scenic walking paths, lush greenery, and a tranquil creek running through the center. Visitors can enjoy leisurely strolls, picnics, and outdoor activities while taking in the natural beauty of the surroundings. With its convenient location in downtown Frederick, Carroll Creek Park is a popular destination for locals and tourists alike seeking a relaxing outdoor experience.

Woodsboro Park is a charming and picturesque tourist attraction located in Woodsboro, Maryland, United States. This beautiful park offers visitors a peaceful and serene setting to enjoy nature, relax, and unwind. With lush greenery, scenic walking trails, and a tranquil atmosphere, Woodsboro Park is the perfect place for a leisurely stroll, a picnic with loved ones, or simply to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Whether you're looking to reconnect with nature or simply enjoy some time outdoors, Woodsboro Park is a must-visit destination for anyone seeking a peaceful retreat in the heart of Maryland.

Brunswick Family Campground is a picturesque institution located at 40 Canal Road in Brunswick, Maryland, United States. This campground offers a variety of lodging options, including cabins and RV sites, making it perfect for families looking to enjoy the great outdoors. Situated right on the banks of the Potomac River and next to the C&O Canal Towpath, guests can easily access biking trails and water activities such as canoeing and kayaking. Campers can also take advantage of a 10% discount on rentals and trips with River & Trail Outfitters. With convenient access to Harpers Ferry, WV, guests can explore the area and enjoy outdoor adventures. Whether you're looking for a relaxing getaway or an action-packed vacation, Brunswick Family Campground has everything you need for a fantastic outdoor experience.

Located in Jefferson, Maryland, United States, C&O Canal Lock 29 is a tourist attraction that preserves America's early transportation history. The canal, which operated for nearly 100 years, was a vital lifeline for communities along the Potomac River, transporting coal, lumber, and agricultural products to market. Today, the canal serves as a pathway for discovering historical, natural, and recreational treasures. Visitors can explore the Chesapeake and Ohio Canal National Historical Park and learn about its significance. Entrance fees are collected at the Great Falls Tavern Visitor Center entrance of the canal. Bicycle riding is permitted on the canal towpath, Western Maryland Rail Trail, Capital Crescent Trail, and Berma Road.

Treehouse Camp at Maple Tree is a unique rustic retreat located at 20716 Townsend Road in Rohrersville, Maryland. Our campground offers a peaceful and secluded setting for nature lovers to enjoy the great outdoors. Nestled up to the Appalachian Trail on Maryland's South Mountain, our twenty acres of wooded campground provide the perfect backdrop for camping, hiking, and river rafting adventures. Our campsites offer a rustic experience with hot outdoor showers and one-of-a-kind shelters. While we may not offer glamorous amenities, we do provide a serene atmosphere to relax and unwind in nature. The seclusion and tranquility of our campground allow guests to escape their busy schedules and connect with the surrounding wildlife.

Crampton Gap Campsite is a peaceful and picturesque campground located in Middletown, Maryland, United States. Nestled in the heart of nature, this campsite offers a serene escape for those looking to unwind and reconnect with the great outdoors. With ample space for tents and RVs, as well as cozy lodging options, guests can enjoy a comfortable stay surrounded by the beauty of Crampton Gap Park. Whether you're looking to hike the nearby trails, relax by a campfire, or simply take in the stunning views, Crampton Gap Campsite is the perfect destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike.

Double Pipe Creek Park is a beautiful outdoor recreational area located in Keymar, Maryland, United States. This park offers a serene and picturesque setting for visitors to enjoy nature and engage in a variety of activities such as hiking, picnicking, birdwatching, and fishing. The park features lush greenery, winding trails, and a peaceful creek that runs through the area. Whether you're looking for a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of city life or a fun day out with family and friends, Double Pipe Creek Park is the perfect destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.

Owens Creek Campground is a charming retreat nestled in the picturesque surroundings of Sabillasville, Maryland. Located at 15882 Foxville Deerfield Road, this campground offers a peaceful escape for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. With a variety of lodging options, including tent and RV sites, as well as cabins, guests can enjoy a comfortable stay surrounded by the beauty of the great outdoors. The campground also features amenities such as picnic areas, hiking trails, and a serene creek running through the property. Whether you're looking for a weekend getaway or a longer stay, Owens Creek Campground is the perfect destination for a relaxing and rejuvenating experience.

Crow's Nest Family Campground is a picturesque retreat nestled in the heart of Thurmont, Maryland. This charming campground offers a variety of accommodations including tent sites, RV hookups, and cozy cabins. Surrounded by lush forests and rolling hills, guests can enjoy the beauty of nature while still being close to modern conveniences. The campground features a range of amenities including a swimming pool, playground, hiking trails, and a camp store stocked with essentials. Families can gather around the fire pit for s'mores or participate in organized activities like scavenger hunts and outdoor movie nights.

Annapolis Rock & Black Rock Cliff Trailhead is a park and tourist attraction located at 11175 Baltimore National Pike in Myersville, Maryland, United States. It is part of South Mountain State Park, managed by the Maryland Department of Natural Resources. The park offers a 40-mile long multi-use trail weaving along the South Mountain ridge, offering visitors a variety of geologic, natural, cultural, and historic experiences. Visitors can walk in the footsteps of Civil War soldiers, climb to breathtaking views, and experience the solitude of nature. The park is home to the Appalachian National Scenic Trail, with scenic overlooks at Weverton Cliffs, Annapolis Rocks, and High Rock providing amazing views of the landscape. Designated camping areas and shelters are available for backpackers and thru-hikers on a first-come-first served basis.

Sulpher Springs Park is a charming park located at 116-118 Water Street in New Windsor, Maryland, United States. This peaceful oasis offers visitors a place to relax and enjoy the beauty of nature. With walking paths, picnic areas, and scenic views, Sulpher Springs Park is the perfect spot for a leisurely stroll or a family outing. Whether you want to spend a quiet afternoon reading a book by the pond or have a fun-filled day with friends and family, Sulpher Springs Park has something for everyone. Come and experience the tranquility and serenity of this hidden gem in New Windsor.

Little Pipe Creek Park is a beautiful park located at 4801 Green Valley Road in Union Bridge, Maryland. This scenic park offers a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, with lush greenery, winding trails, and plenty of open space for picnics and outdoor activities. Visitors can enjoy hiking, birdwatching, and simply taking in the natural beauty of the surroundings. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or a fun day out with family and friends, Little Pipe Creek Park is the perfect destination.

Camp Misty Mount is a historic campground located in the picturesque Catoctin Mountains of Maryland. Built in 1937 as part of a federal program during the Great Depression, the rustic cabins provide a unique camping experience for small groups, families, and individuals. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the cabins offer modern amenities such as lighting, comfortable bedding, and hot showers while still retaining their historic charm. Surrounded by Eastern deciduous hardwood forests, Camp Misty Mount offers access to scenic hiking trails, stunning overlooks, and the tallest waterfall in Maryland, Cunningham Falls. Visitors can enjoy a variety of outdoor activities including wildlife watching, bouldering, rock climbing, and fly fishing. The camp also features a swimming pool open from late May through September.

Chestnut Picnic Area is a peaceful and picturesque spot located along Park Central Road in Sabillasville, Maryland. This area offers picnic tables, grills, and restroom facilities for visitors to enjoy. The Spicebush Nature Trail, which is wheelchair-accessible, can be accessed from this location. The picnic area serves as a great starting point for exploring the West Side trails of the park, including the Catoctin National Recreation Trail. Adjacent parking for horse trailers is available for equestrians, and accessible parking and picnic tables are conveniently located near the trail. Restrooms are within close proximity to the Spicebush Nature Trail, and the Historic Camp Greentop is also nearby. Additionally, Chestnut Picnic Area along Foxville-Deerfield Road offers picnic tables, grills, and a vault toilet on site, making it a great starting point for exploring the park's trails. No ground fires are allowed at either location, and reservations are not required. Picnic tables are also conveniently located near trail heads and public parking areas for visitors' convenience.

Big Woods Campsite is a picturesque campground nestled in the heart of Sharpsburg, Maryland. Surrounded by towering trees and lush greenery, this serene escape offers a variety of lodging options for those looking to reconnect with nature. Whether you prefer pitching a tent under the stars or cozying up in a cabin, Big Woods Campsite has something for everyone. With amenities such as hiking trails, picnic areas, and a peaceful atmosphere, this park is the perfect destination for a relaxing getaway. Experience the beauty of the great outdoors at Big Woods Campsite.

The Chesapeake & Ohio Canal is a historic park located at 3701 Canal Road in Point of Rocks, Maryland, United States. The park preserves the remnants of the 19th-century canal that once connected the Chesapeake Bay with the Ohio River, playing a crucial role in the transportation of goods and people during the Industrial Revolution. Visitors can explore the scenic towpath, historic lockhouses, and picturesque aqueducts that showcase the engineering marvels of the canal. The park offers opportunities for hiking, biking, picnicking, and learning about the rich history of this important waterway.

Quarry Pond Park is a beautiful natural oasis located in Gaithersburg, Maryland, United States. This serene park offers visitors a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. The park features a tranquil pond surrounded by lush greenery, perfect for picnics, leisurely strolls, and birdwatching. Visitors can also enjoy hiking trails, fishing opportunities, and scenic views of the surrounding landscape. Whether you're looking to relax in nature or engage in outdoor activities, Quarry Pond Park is the perfect destination for nature lovers of all ages.

South Valley Park is a picturesque outdoor recreational area located in Montgomery Village, Maryland, United States. Situated at 19003 Watkins Mill Road, this park offers visitors a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. With lush greenery, winding trails, and beautiful scenery, South Valley Park is the perfect spot for picnics, hiking, and enjoying the great outdoors. Whether you're looking to relax in nature or get some exercise, this park has something for everyone. Come and experience the beauty of South Valley Park today!

Wakefield Valley Park is a sprawling outdoor retreat located in Westminster, Maryland. Situated at 1007-1001 Fenby Farm Road, this park offers a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. Visitors can enjoy a variety of recreational activities such as hiking, picnicking, and birdwatching amidst the lush greenery and scenic landscapes. With its tranquil atmosphere and picturesque surroundings, Wakefield Valley Park is the perfect destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike.

North Frederick Overlook is a stunning park and tourist attraction located on Gambrill Park Road in Frederick, Maryland, United States. Offering breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape, visitors can enjoy a peaceful escape in nature while taking in the beauty of the North Frederick region. Whether you're looking to go for a hike, have a picnic, or simply relax and unwind, North Frederick Overlook is the perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. Experience the tranquility and serenity of this hidden gem in Maryland's countryside.

Rock Run Campground is a charming institution located at 8002 Gambrill Park Road in Frederick, Maryland. Operated by the Maryland Department of Natural Resources, this campground offers a unique experience for visitors looking to enjoy the great outdoors. One of the main attractions of Rock Run Campground is the historic Gambrill Tea Room, a Civilian Conservation Corps built structure dating back to the 1930s. This beloved venue has hosted countless family gatherings and celebrations over the years. In an effort to preserve its historical charm, the Tea Room will close in 2024 for evaluation of rental fees and maintenance needs.

Patuxent River State Park, located at 23222 Georgia Avenue in Brookeville, Maryland, is a beautiful natural area spanning 6,700 acres in Howard and Montgomery counties. This park, managed by the Maryland Department of Natural Resources, offers a variety of recreational activities such as hunting, fishing, hiking, and horseback riding. Visitors can enjoy the catch and release trout stream, designated hunting areas, and a network of unmarked hiking and equestrian trails. While the park does not rent horses, visitors are welcome to bring their own for a scenic ride through the park's stunning landscapes.

Swallow Falls Country Store is a charming country store and restaurant located at 2500 Swallow Falls Road in Oakland, Maryland, United States. This cozy establishment offers a variety of delicious food options, including homemade sandwiches, freshly baked pastries, and locally sourced ingredients. Guests can enjoy their meal in a rustic dining area or take their food to go and explore the beautiful natural surroundings of Swallow Falls State Park. With friendly service and a welcoming atmosphere, Swallow Falls Country Store is the perfect spot to grab a bite to eat while exploring the scenic beauty of Western Maryland.

Millard Cooper Park, located at 7282 Cooper Drive in Sykesville, Maryland, is a charming community park offering a variety of amenities for visitors to enjoy. The park features pavilions, picnic areas, a nature trail, and playground equipment, making it a great spot for families to spend a day outdoors. One of the highlights of Millard Cooper Park is the free Concerts in the Park series, which takes place on Friday nights during the summer months. Visitors can also catch a movie at the Sykesville Cinema held on second Saturdays during the summer. The Snack Shack is open during movie and concert nights, offering a selection of tasty treats such as hot dogs, popcorn, ice cream, candy, and drinks.

Henryton RD spring is a beautiful park located at 8000 Henryton Road in Marriottsville, Maryland, United States. This institution is a monitoring location associated with a stream in Carroll County, Maryland, with water data available online dating back to 1948. The park offers a serene and picturesque setting for visitors to enjoy nature and relax. It is an official government organization in the United States, ensuring the safety and security of all visitors. The park is a perfect place for outdoor enthusiasts to explore and appreciate the natural beauty of the area.

Brighton Dam Recreation Park is a beautiful outdoor oasis located at 2 Brighton Dam Road in Brookeville, Maryland. This sprawling park offers a variety of recreational activities for visitors of all ages, including hiking trails, picnic areas, fishing spots, and scenic views of the surrounding area. Whether you're looking to spend a relaxing day in nature or seeking adventure, Brighton Dam Recreation Park is the perfect destination for outdoor fun. With its convenient location in the United States, this park is a popular choice for locals and tourists alike. Come and explore all that Brighton Dam Recreation Park has to offer!

The Morgan Run Natural Environment Area, located in Eldersburg, Maryland, is a popular park and tourist attraction managed by the Maryland Department of Natural Resources. Covering approximately 2,000 acres of natural beauty, visitors can enjoy hiking and equestrian trails throughout the area. The Morgan Run is known for its catch and release trout stream, with a wheelchair accessible platform available for fly fishing enthusiasts. The park is committed to providing accessible amenities for all visitors, ensuring that everyone can enjoy the natural environment. The Department of Natural Resources is dedicated to preserving and protecting Maryland's natural resources for future generations. Additionally, a toll-free fraud hotline is available to report any allegations of fraud or abuse of state government resources, helping to maintain the integrity of the park and protect state resources.