What to do this summer in Maryland ~ Cunningham Falls

Cunningham Falls State Park in Thurmont Maryland

Cunningham Falls is located in the beautiful Catoctin Mountains. Cunningham Falls offers a wide variety of outdoor activities such as swimming, hiking, fishing, canoeing and a great playground area.

If you're looking for a getaway the park offers campsites and cabins for rent. My family has stayed at this park on several different occasions and are excited to plan another trip here. Cunningham Falls is close enough for a day trip as well.

 Hiking

Cunningham Falls offers a variety of hiking trails varying in terrain and accessibility. Trails vary from .5 to 7.5 miles in length and can accommodate everything from families with children to the more experienced hiker. The 'Lower Trail' is the easiest of the trails, we were able to use our jogging stroller on the trail since our son was quite young at the time. 

The Falls

While here make sure you visit the cascading 78 foot waterfall. The waterfall can easily be reached from a short trail that begins at the lake or from a boardwalk off Route 77.

Swimming

From Memorial Day through Labor Day you can cool off in lake, swimming is not always available so you will want to check with the Park office the day of. The view of the mountains from the lake are breathtaking.

Picnicking

There are grills and picnic table available by lake on a first come, first served basis.

Camping

Campsites are available April through October. At The William Houck Area, they offer 107 basic sites and 33 sites with electric hook up. If you prefer a cabin there are nine 4-person cabins and four 6-person cabins to choose from. You will need to reserve these well in advance though as they fill up fast.

As you can see Cunningham Falls State Park if a beautiful place to visit whether it is for a day or longer. Please visit their website for more information regarding hours of operation, directions, rentals, etc. Cunningham Falls is a very popular place to visit so remember to get here early, it quite common for the park to fill to capacity early in the day, especially on weekends and holidays.