This past weekend, I embarked on an unexpected adventure that quickly became one of my favorite outdoor excursions. I had no idea that Gathland State Park, tucked away in the beautiful rolling hills of Frederick, Maryland, even existed.
A Spontaneous Roadtrip in Frederick County
I had been looking for somewhere new to explore outside of the typical tourist spots, something a bit off the beaten path. After some quick research, I found Gathland State Park, which—embarrassingly for a local like myself—I had never heard of before. Little did I know, I was about to uncover a hidden gem, rich in history, nature, and nice drive.
Address: 900 Arnoldtown Rd, Jefferson, MD 21755
Elevation: 929 ft (283 m)
Nearest town: Burkittsville, Maryland
Stepping Back in Time: War Correspondents Memorial Arch
Upon entering the park, I was welcomed immediately by the tall “War Correspondents Memorial Arch” structure located in the middle area of the road.
The structure stands tall and proud, serving as a reminder of the courageous reporters who risked their lives to cover the war. When was it built, and how was it built?
The park, covering over 150 acres, is not only a haven for nature lovers but also a historical landmark. It’s named after George Alfred Townsend, a Civil War correspondent who built a “reception” house here in the 1880s. The house was designed as a tribute to his journalistic career and to honor those who fought in the Civil War.
The park has several historical monuments scattered throughout, offering a unique blend of outdoor exploration and a walk through history. We were able to park the car in the parking lot, cross the road, and walk up to the Arch, a towering memorial arch, which is dedicated themselves to telling the stories of wartime in the 1860s.
I appreciated how there were labels and informational signs to inform visitors the history of the park. I later learned that the park is named after Gathland—who used using the name “Gath” as a reporter.
Nature and Trails: Gathland State Park
Aside from its rich history, Gathland State Park is a paradise for anyone looking to enjoy nature. The park has several well-maintained trails, including the Appalachian Trail, which passes right through the park. The peaceful woods, streams, and views from the ridge are perfect for anyone wanting to disconnect and immerse themselves in nature.
We walked along the paved road paths just between the Arch and the other buildings. When the weather gets warmer, I’m sure we’ll want to go back for the hike!
The best part? The park wasn’t crowded at all, which made for an incredibly peaceful experience. It felt like I had discovered a private retreat hidden from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
Tips for Visiting Gathland State Park
If you’re planning to visit Gathland State Park, here are a few tips to help you make the most of your trip:
- Free to enter with free parking in a paved parking lot, bathrooms, good grass field
- Wear sturdy shoes: The trails can get a little rocky, so it’s best to wear comfortable footwear. We visited in March, so the grass was still a bit spongey.
- Bring water and snacks: While there are plenty of places to stop and rest, the park is fairly secluded, so make sure you have what you need for the hike.
- Explore the historical sites: Take time to walk around the memorials and read the plaques to fully appreciate the history of the park.
- Take a camera: The views are stunning, and you’ll want to capture the beauty of the surroundings.
History and Nature
Gathland State Park was the perfect day trip I didn’t even know I needed. Whether you’re a history buff, nature lover, or someone looking to just escape for a few hours, this park has something for everyone.
I’ll certainly be back to revisit the park and continue exploring its trails and history. Next time, we’ll need to visit Gathland Hall as shown on the Maryland Department of Natural Resources website.
If you find yourself in the Frederick area and are looking for an underrated and peaceful destination, I highly recommend checking it out—you won’t be disappointed!
Have you ever had a surprise discovery like mine at a park or historic site? I’d love to hear about it in the comments!
