Maryland is home to a variety of underrated state parks for both residents and visitors to enjoy, and Cunningham Falls State Park is one of the best.

Home to Maryland’s highest cascading waterfall, this park’s proximity to Frederick, MD, makes it a perfect destination for residents and visitors to enjoy a range of activities. 

Cunningham Falls State Park Guide: Waterfall Hike, Trails, Parking & Tips

a Waterfall Cascades Down Dark Rocky Terrain at Cunningham Falls State Park Surrounded by Lush Green Trees and Vegetation White Foam and Mist Form As Water Flows Quickly over the Rocks Creating a Serene Forest Setting

In this article, we provide everything you need to know about enjoying Cunningham Falls State Park. Whether you’re interested in hiking, camping, or taking your family to the beach, we’ve got you covered with all the information you need.

Where is Cunningham Falls State Park and Other Basics

Cunningham Falls is located in Frederick County adjacent and just west of Thurmont, MD. The park basically straddles Fredrick and Carrol Counties, and has a variety of sections with different activities.

You will most likely enter Cunningham Falls State Park by traveling west on Route 77 from Thurmont.  But as you’ll read below, there are a variety of areas and entry points.

Brown Roadside Sign Reads Cunningham Falls State Park Wm Houck and Falls Lake Area with White Arrow Pointing Left Below Are Symbols for Camping and Parking the Sign Stands by a Paved Road Amid Lush Green Trees and Foliage

Lake Area and Cunningham Falls Trailhead.  (location link) This is considered part of the William Houck Area, and is the most popular. It is home to the lake, the beach, and the main trailhead to the falls.

William Houck Area Campground.  (location link)  This is one of the camping areas, which includes the camp office and camp store.

Manor Area and Manor Campground.  (location link)  This area has a visitor center, a second campground, and also home to the Catoctin Iron Furnace.

a Stone Visitor Center Building with Large Windows and a Triangular Roof Sits Among Green Trees at Cunningham Falls State Park a Bulletin Board and Informational Signs Are Near the Door with a Paved Area and Part of a Blue Handicap Parking Space in Front

Cunningham Falls Hours of Operation depend on the season:

  • April to October:  8 AM to sunset
  • November to March:  10 AM to sunset

The Official Maryland DNR Site has valuable information, and you can also read TripAdvisor Reviews on the park.  Also note that we usually lose mobile phone coverage once near or inside the park, so plan accordingly.

Top Ways to Enjoy Cunningham Falls State Park

What makes Cunningham Falls such an attraction for Frederick residents and visitors is the variety of activities it offers.  Here are the ways we recommend you enjoy this Maryland State Park. 

(Keep reading below for more details on each):

  • Hiking.  Some of the best hikes in Maryland can be found in Cunningham Falls State Park.  There are hikes for every level.
  • Camping.  If you’re a camping family, Cunningham Falls offers several outstanding campgrounds.
  • Cunningham Falls.  Visiting the falls themselves is a must, with easy access for anyone.
  • The Beach and Swimming.  Popular with families and kids, Hunting Creek Lake has a beach for fun and swimming (Memorial Day to Labor Day).
Alyssa and Nicole at the Cat Rock Summit in Cunningham Falls State Park
  • Fishing.  With a Maryland Fishing License, you can fish for trout in Hunting Creek Lake or the various streams in the park.
  • Picnic.  This is an excellent park for a simple visit and picnic.  Both the William Houck and Manor areas offer numerous picnic facilities.
  • Events.  The park hosts regular events, including interpretive programs, 5K and 10K races, and the highly popular Maple Syrup Festival in March.
Close Up of a Cluster of Mountain Laurel Buds at Cunningham Falls State Park Pink with White Edges Atop Reddish Stems the Unopened Star Shaped Buds Are Surrounded by Glossy Green Leaves As Sunlight Highlights the Vibrant Colors and Textures

Cunningham Falls State Park Map

If you’re like me, the first thing you want in a park is a good map.  Below is a link to the best map of Cunningham Falls State Park.  This PDF includes all entrances, services, hiking trails, and roads through the park. 

This is the Best Cunningham Falls State Park Map Use This Link for a Pdf Map

Cunningham Falls State Park Map

This is the best map of Cunningham Falls State Park. Click for a PDF version.

Area Hotels and Vacation Rentals

Are you visiting and need to find a hotel or vacation rental near Cunningham Fall State Park?  This map can help:

Entrance and Day Use Fees

You’ll pay a small fee to enter the park and use its facilities.  How much depends on which area you visit and the time of year:

The William Houck Area

This is the main area with trails to the falls, the lake, beach, and the William Houck campground.  Fees for this area are:

  • Memorial Day through Labor Day
    • Weekends and Holidays:  $5/person (Maryland residents), $7/person (non-residents)
    • Weekdays:  $3/person (Maryland residents), $5/person (non-residents)
  • Rest of Year
    • $3/person (Maryland residents), $5/person (non-residents)
the Dam Overlook Trailhead Also Known As Misery Trail is on Catoctin Hollow Road in Cunningham Falls State Park

The Manor Area

This is the secondary area where the Catoctin Iron Furnace and Manor campground are located.

  • Year Round Fees: $3/vehicle (Maryland residents), $5/vehicle (non-residents)

Other FAQs on Cunningham Falls Entrance Fees:

  • Fees are mainly collected via ‘honor system’ pay stations as you drive into the park
  • Fees for other activities, such as camping and boating, are listed in the respective sections below
  • Fees are waived for both Veterans of the Armed Forces and Active Duty Military/National Guard
  • You can purchase a Maryland State Park and Trail Passport to get unlimited annual day use at all Maryland State Parks.
a Vertical Maryland State Parks Annual Passport Card Features a Close Up Photo of a Blue and White Bird Perched Near a Wooden Post Evoking the Natural Beauty Found at Cunningham Falls State Park the Park Logo and Expiration Months Appear Beside the Bird

Hiking to Cunningham Falls (Waterfalls!)

Of course, one of the main attractions of the park is Cunningham Falls itself.  This beautiful cascade deep in the woods is a must-see if you are in the area.

The falls are incredibly accessible and virtually anyone can hike to the base of the falls.  There many more extensive hikes you can take in the area (read more below).

a Person in a Red Jacket Sits on a Large Rock at Cunningham Falls State Park Facing a Small Waterfall Cascading over Rugged Terrain Leafless Trees and Scattered Boulders Surround the Scene Suggesting Early Spring or Late Fall

The falls are accessed in the William Houck area of the park, and you can take either of the following trails to reach the falls:

Lower Trail + Cliff Trail

These are the shortest trails that both lead to the falls.
The Lower Trail is a 0.5 mile easy, interpretive trail leading to the falls. Virtually anyone can do it. Park at the Day Use area.
You can return via the Cliff Trail which is slightly longer and more rugged.

A few more notes on visiting the actual Cunningham Falls:

  • There is an alternative Boardwalk Trail that is 100% accessible and leads to the falls.
  • Swimming is prohibited in the falls (though Nicole and I will admit to dipping our feet in many times!)
  • It’s very tempting to climb the surrounding rocks (again, we do it all the time).  But the rocks are slick and dangerous. Use caution and watch your kids!
Nicole Alyssa and Glenn at the Summit of Cat Rock in Cunningham Falls State Park

The Best Hikes in Cunningham Falls State Park

Nicole and I love hiking, and Cunningham Falls is one of the best places around Frederick for hiking. 

Below are what we consider the best hikes in Cunningham Falls State Park.  Refer to the park’s trail map for more details.

a Wooden Trailhead Sign Labeled Falls Trailhead Stands in a Forest with Bare Treesone of the Best Hikes Around Frederick Md the Sign Displays Maps Notices and Safety Info Inside a Glass Case As Sunlight Highlights the Gravel Covered Ground

Cunningham Falls Upper Loop Trail

This 2.5 Mile Loop Trail begins from the far trailhead on Foxville Road (Route 77) is the best way to see the falls and the deep forests of the park.
Utilize the Catoctin Trail to start, then the Cliff Trail and Lower Trail to form a loop.

a Woman with Long Brown Hair Sunglasses and a Purple Tank Top Sits on a Large Rock at Cunningham Falls State Park Surrounded by Green Trees Under a Blue Sky Smiling in Black Leggings Purple Sneakers and a Pink Waist Bag She Enjoys the Sunny Outdoor Setting

Misery Trail to Cat Rock Summit

This is a 3.3 mile out and back hike that is probably our favorite longer hike in the park.
Starting from the Dam Overlook Parking Lot on Catoctin Hallow Road, you take the Misery Trail up the mountain to the beautiful Cat Rock Summit.

a Wooden Trail Marker Stands in Cunningham Falls State Parks Forested Area with Ferns Rocks and Roots Nearby Engraved with Boss Hill and Elev 765 in Yellow It Basks in Sunlight Filtering Through the Trees Casting Dappled Shadows

Bob's Hill Trail to Bob's Hill Overlook

Another climbing trail to a great overloop is the Bob's Hill Trail. Take this trail 1.5 miles up from the Manor Area to Bob's Hill Overlook and check out the various views to both the south and north.

Hunting Creek Lake, The Beach, and Swimming

One of the most popular activities at Cunningham Falls State Park, especially for families with kids is visiting the beach at Hunting Creek Lake.

The lakeside beach is located in the William Houck area, which also has lots of other services including lots of places to picnic.

a Sandy Beach at Cunningham Falls State Park is Crowded with People Swimming Sunbathing and Relaxing Under Colorful Umbrellas a Lifeguard Watches from Under a Red Umbrella As Lush Green Trees and Hills Surround the Lake Under a Partly Cloudy Sky
Photo Credit: dnr.maryland.gov

Some important things to keep in mind regarding the beach and swimming at Cunningham Falls:

  • Swimming in the beach area is open from Memoral Day to Labor Day
  • GET THERE EARLY.  On busy summer days, the beach area of the park fills up early, often by mid-morning.
  • Lifeguards are often on duty, but in our experience they are not consistent.  Plan on watching kids yourself.
  • No pets are allowed
Hunting Creek Lake is Just Below the Dam Overlook Parking Lot in Cunningham Falls State Park

If you can arrive early enough to enter, this area offers plenty of parking, restrooms for changing, numerous picnic tables, and is an excellent place for families to spend a warm day!

Boating in Hunting Creek Lake

Hunting Creek Lake is not large, but it’s big enough to go boating.  There are multiple ways to go boating in Cunningham Falls State Park.  The first is to launch your own boat using the boat ramp in the same William Houck beach area.

There is a small charge ($3 for Maryland residents, $5 for non-residents).  Only electric boats are permitted; no gas-powered boats. 

a Calm Lake at Cunningham Falls State Park is Surrounded by Green Tree Covered Hills Under a Partly Cloudy Sky Two Small Boats with People Fishing Drift on the Water While Lush Foliage Lines the Visible Shoreline to the Right
Photo Credit: dnr.maryland.gov

During the summer months, there is also a boat rental operation in the beach area.  Here you can rent canoes, kayaks, and pedal boats.  Prices vary but generally $10-20 per hour.

There’s a scarcity of information on boat rentals at Cunningham Falls anywhere online, but less a reservation system.  But you can call in advance:  1.301.271.7574.

The Super Interesting Catoctin Furnace

One attraction in the park that is alone worth visiting, especially if you like history, is the Catoctin Furnace.

Located in the Manor Area, just south of the visitor center, this National Historic Register site will take you back 200 years to what was happening in the Maryland mountains.

a Historic Stone Furnace Stands Amid Green Grass and Trees at Cunningham Falls State Park the Structure Features a Large Arched Opening in Front a Tall Stone Chimney on the Left and a Wooden Roof Supported by Posts Sunlight Filters Through the Trees
photo credit: NPS.com

The structure dates back to 1776 and was used to smelt iron ore from the surrounding mountains into iron and steel, which was initially used by the Continental Army and later powered the Industrial Revolution for years.

The fairly new Museum of the Iron Worker is a small but fascinating onsite exhibit that tells the story of the facility, its people, processes, and history of iron making at the site—highly recommended!

a Small White Stone House with a Shiny Metal Roof Black Door and Single Window Sits Near Cunningham Falls State Park a White Picket Fence Surrounds the Yard with Green Trees and Lawn Under a Clear Blue Sky
photo credit: CatoctinFurnace.org

Notes on visiting the Catoctin Furnace:

  • Hours vary based on season, but generally Thurs-Sunday 10 AM to 4 PM
  • On-site parking available
  • There are several short walks around the area, including the 0.4-mile Iron Trail and the African American Cemetery Trail

Camping and Campgrounds

Cunningham Falls State Park features some of the best campgrounds near Frederick, MD. If your family enjoys camping, this park offers a selection of top-notch campgrounds in the Frederick area.

There are two main campgrounds available, each with its own unique advantages and characteristics. We will provide all the details for each campground below, but first, let’s compare the two campgrounds at Cunningham Falls.

a Picnic Table and Grill Sit in a Wooded Area by a Calm Lake at Cunningham Falls State Park Sunlight Filters Through Leafy Green Trees Casting Dappled Shadows on the Ground As Forested Hills Rise Across the Water
Photo Credit: dnr.maryland.gov

1. William Houck Campground. This is the larger, main campground in the vicinity of the falls.  It has more facilities and is located near Hunting Creek Lake and the beach.  It is also more crowded.

2. Manor Area Campground.  This campground is smaller, more secluded, and has less facilities.  It is located near the Catoctin Furnace and is open all year.

Two Women Stand by a Calm Lake at Cunningham Falls State Park Surrounded by Lush Green Trees and Hills One Wears a Backpack and Shorts the Other Leggings and Sunglasses Both Face the Camera with Reflective Water and Forested Shoreline Behind Them

William Houck Campground: All You Need to Know

The William Houck Campground features 106 basic tent sites and 36 electric camp sites, all situated around multiple loops.  There is a bathhouse for each loop. 

There’s a camp office where you check in when it’s open (3 pm to close), but you can also check in after hours.

There are also four cabins available for rent.  Each cabin sleeps six.

Reservations are made in advance online or by phone.  Fees depend on weekday vs weekend and resident vs non-resident.  Discounts are available to Maryland Park Service Golden Age Pass holders.

a Detailed Cunningham Falls State Park Campground Map Displays Camp Loops Site Numbers Bathhouses Water and Electric Sites Camper Cabins Dump Stations Parking Roads and the Camp Office with Color Coded Symbols for Amenities

Map of William Houck Camping Area (link)

Manor Area Campground: All You Need to Know

a Small Park Entrance Booth Stands Under Two Flagpoles with the Us and Maryland Flags at Cunningham Falls State Park Lush Green Trees Surround the Booth a Red Stop Sign Sits on the Right and a Paved Road Splits Under a Clear Blue Sky

The Manor Area Campground features 20 basic campsites and 7 electric sites. There is a bathhouse that operates from April to October, which includes shower facilities.

Check-in is conducted via a self-service station located at the entrance, which is open from 7:00 AM to 7:00 PM. Reservations must be made in advance online.

Rates at this campground are the same as those at the William Houck Campground.  Watch this informative video overview of the Manor Campground area.

a Detailed Cunningham Falls State Park Campground Map Displays Camp Loops Site Numbers Bathhouses Water and Electric Sites Camper Cabins Dump Stations Parking Roads and the Camp Office with Color Coded Symbols for Amenities

Map of Manor Area Campground (link)

More on Camping at Cunningham Falls State Park

  • Summer is the busy season, but we’ve generally never had a problem with reservations if they’re made 1-2 months in advance
  • A dump station is located at William Houck (both campgrounds have access)
  • Firewood is available for sale at both campground
  • Want to rent an RV?  Check out Beckley’s RVs, who will set up at your Cunningham Falls campsite in advance
  • Cunningham Falls has black bears, so be sure to follow procedures for camping in bear country

Fishing in Cunningham Falls State Park

While not as notable as the fly fishing opportunities in the nearby Thurmont area, there are actually some decent fishing opportunities within Cunningham Falls State Park.

If you are interested in fishing in the park, here are some options:

Two People Are Fishing from a Small Motorboat on a Calm Blue Lake at Cunningham Falls State Park Dense Green Forest with Hints of Autumn Colors Covers the Hillside in the Background and a Shoreline is Faintly Visible Across the Water

Fishing Hunting Creek Lake

The lake is a great place for trout fishing, as it is a Maryland put and take trout area (regularly stocked), You can fish from the pier, banks, or your own electric boat. Other species such as bass and crapie exist in Hunting Creek Lake.

a Weathered Wooden Sign in a Forest at Cunningham Falls State Park Reads Catch Return Trout Fishing Area Fly Fishing Only It Lists Trout Stamp Requirements While a Yellow Sign Marks the Park Boundary and Prohibits Hunting and Weapons

Fishing the Creeks and Streams

Several of the main creeks in Cunningham Falls State Park are Catch and Release trout streams. Fly fishing with artificial flies is permitted.
Big Hunting Creek. along route 77 and Little Hunting Creek in the Manor Area are especially good places to fly fish.

To fish in Cunningham Falls State Park, you must have a Maryland Freshwater Sport Fishing License, which you can purchase online from the Maryland Department of Natural Resources.

Hunting in Cunningham Falls State Park

Nicole and I are not hunters, so this is not our area of expertise.  But hunting is permitted on 4,400 acres of Cunningham Falls State Park.

Below are the resources to use if you are interested in hunting in this state park:

Accessibility in the Park

The Maryland DNR has done a variety of things to ensure the park is accessible and ADA compliant.

  • The Boardwalk Trail is a 0.2-mile, wheelchair-accessible trail that leads to the falls.  Handicap parking is available at the trailhead.
  • The Fishing Pier at William Houck is wheelchair-accessible
  • There are accessible campsites at William Houck (Deer Spring loop), and all bathhouses are wheelchair accessible
  • The bath houses at South Beach are wheelchair accessible
a Wooden Boardwalk with Railings Winds Through Cunningham Falls State Parks Forest of Bare Trees and Rocks People Gather at Lookout Points Observing a Rocky Stream and Small Waterfalls Amid Early Spring Foliage in This Calm Natural Setting
Photo Credit: LiveandLetHike.com

The Maple Syrup Festival and Other Events at Cunningham Falls State Park

Cunningham Falls State Park hosts various events year round, including 5K/10K races, group hikes, and lots of interpretive programs at the Catoctin Furnace.

The best way to check the calendar for these events is by referring to the Explore Magazine, the annual Official Guidebook of Cunningham Falls State Park. 

a Close Up of an Ornate Box Turtle on Grass is Featured on the Cover of a 2025 Guide Titled Explore Cunningham Falls State Park and Gambrill State Parks the Lower Section Has Wavy Yellow Graphics and Text About State Park Facilities and Programs

Explore Magazine

The Unofficial Guide to Cunningham Falls State Park

However, by far the most popular and notable event in the park is the annual Maple Syrup Festival.

Two Smiling People Outdoors at Cunningham Falls State Park Hold Wooden Trays with Four Jars Each Filled with Amber and Brown Liquids They Wear Casual Clothes Hats and Flannel Shirts with Leafless Trees and Stacked Wood in the Background
Photo Credit: VisitFrederick.org

This event is held every March over two weekends and celebrates the little-known history of maple syrup production in Maryland.  You can watch demonstrations, listen to music, and of course indulge in pancakes.

Cunningham Falls State Park FAQs

Cunningham Falls State Park is one of the best state parks in Maryland. 

It has a wide variety of outdoor activities, including opportunities to hike, bike, swim at a lake beach, and hike to the impressive Cunningham Falls.

You don’t need advance reservations for Cunningham Falls State Park, but you will pay an entrance fee (which varies by season and entrance area).

The park can also get crowded at peak times, which means a wait time to get in.

Yes!  Cunningham Falls has activities for family members of all ages.

There are beginner and moderate hikes (including an interpretive trail to the actual falls), a swimming area, and lots of place for a family picnic.

This is a tricky question:  you cannot swim at the actual Cunningham Falls.  However, Cunningham Falls State Park has an excellent swimming area at Hunting Creek Lake that includes a beach.  This area is open during summer months.

Yes!  There are two excellent campgrounds at Cunningham Falls State Park, including the William Houck Campground and the Manor Area Campground.

Read above for all the details on each.

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A wooden sign for Cunningham Falls State Park stands in a forested area near Mt Airy, MD. The sign features the Maryland Park Service logo, white oak leaves, and text for the Maryland Department of Natural Resources, William Houck Area. Lush green trees surround it.
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Glenn VanLandingham Travel Writer
Glenn is a travel enthusiast and adventure seeker who lives in Frederick, Maryland, and Bend, Oregon. He and his wife Nicole use EpicBend and EpicFrederick to chronicle their adventures in these amazing places so others can live their best lives in Frederick and Bend.
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Frederick, Maryland Bend, Oregon
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