Gambrill State Park
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Gambrill State Park

4.7
·1k reviews·Frederick, United States

Scenic mountain park with stunning overlooks, diverse hiking trails, picnic spots, and camping.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday late afternoons

Enjoy peaceful trails

CrowdLow
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Gambrill State Park

Gambrill State Park

Best Time

Weekday late afternoons

Enjoy peaceful trails

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Scenic mountain park with stunning overlooks, diverse hiking trails, picnic spots, and camping.

4.7
(1k reviews)

"Gambrill State Park is an absolute gem nestled in the mountains, offering breathtaking views."

Vertical photo
TIP

🚗 Park Smart

Drive further up the mountain past the camping area to find higher parking lots with awesome sights.

🥾 Trail Ready

Wear sturdy shoes; some trails are rocky, steep, and can be overgrown. Not stroller-friendly.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

High Knob Overlooks

High Knob Overlooks

High Knob Area

Three stone overlooks offer stunning panoramic views of Frederick and Middletown valleys. Perfect for photos!

Instagram
Catoctin Trail

Catoctin Trail

Various trailheads

A challenging hike that rewards with refreshing air and a sense of accomplishment.

TikTok
Black Locust Trail

Black Locust Trail

Various trailheads

A rewarding, albeit difficult, 3-mile loop perfect for adventurous families and experienced hikers.

Instagram
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Planning Your Visit

Beat the Crowds for Peak Views

While Gambrill State Park isn't typically overrun, weekdays and late afternoons offer the most solitude for enjoying its scenic overlooks and hiking trails. Weekends can see more visitors, especially mountain bikers on certain trails. Reddit

Prepare for Nature's Embrace

Gambrill State Park is a natural habitat, so be aware of wildlife like black bears, especially in central Maryland. TikTokInstagram Also, some trails can be overgrown and rocky, so wear appropriate footwear for hiking. Reddit

Best Times

When
Weekday late afternoons
Why
Enjoy peaceful trails
Crowd
Low
When
Spring and Fall mornings
Why
Crisp air, beautiful foliage
Crowd
Medium
When
Sunset
Why
Breathtaking views
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Buying a house in Frederick County comes with wildlife, apparently. A black bear was spotted this past week on a driveway near Gambrill State Park. According to Maryland DNR: it is not uncommon to see black bears in the central part of the state due to seasonal movement. Below are some tips on What to Do if you See a Black Bear from the Maryland Department of Natural Resources; “If You See a Bear:...
@frederickcitymedia
6.4K likes • 100.7K views

🚗 Park Smart

Drive further up the mountain past the camping area to find higher parking lots with awesome sights. Reddit

🥾 Trail Ready

Wear sturdy shoes; some trails are rocky, steep, and can be overgrown. Not stroller-friendly. Reddit

I called the Catoctin Trail in Gambrill State Park the ‘behind’ blaster, and if you live in the DMV, I need you to add it to your list. 📍Frederick, Maryland In 2 hours, I only saw one couple and while the air was so refreshing, I burnt almost 800 calories. Add to your list if you love hiking but also like skipping the crowds but most importantly love closing your exercise ring! #stateparks #mary...
@journeyswithkris
3.4K likes • 60.6K views
Didn’t have to drive far this year. Gambrill and middletown were showing off. #Fall #FrederickMD #GambrillStatePark #Middletown #Dronestagram #DJI @djiglobal
mo.7eb
0 likes • 189 views

📸 Capture the Views

The overlooks, especially High Knob, are prime spots for photography. Instagram+1

💰 Small Fee, Big Impact

A $3 parking fee helps with park maintenance and conservation. Instagram

Rain, rain, don’t go away! We have your wedding day covered come what may... ☔️👰🏻‍♀️🤵🏻‍♂️💍 . . . . Venue: Tea Room at Gambrill State Park Coordination/Officiant: @elopersdmv Beauty: @lookingglassbeauty Catering/Dessert/Linens/Decor: @gypsysoulcatering DJ: @thedapperdjs (@najee.carde ) Bartending: @baltimorebarkeep #elopers #elopersdmv #frederickweddings #dmvweddings #weddingcoordinator #dwe...
elopersdmv
61 likes • 1.2K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🚗 Park Smart

Drive further up the mountain past the camping area to find higher parking lots with awesome sights. Reddit

🥾 Trail Ready

Wear sturdy shoes; some trails are rocky, steep, and can be overgrown. Not stroller-friendly. Reddit

📸 Capture the Views

The overlooks, especially High Knob, are prime spots for photography. Instagram+1

💰 Small Fee, Big Impact

A $3 parking fee helps with park maintenance and conservation. Instagram

🐻 Wildlife Awareness

Be aware of potential wildlife sightings, including black bears. TikTokInstagram

What Travellers Say

4.7
(1k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors rave about Gambrill State Park's stunning scenic overlooks and well-maintained trails, calling it a 'true Maryland treasure.' It's praised as a peaceful escape for releasing stress and enjoying the outdoors, with many recommending it for dog owners and families. Some note that certain trails can be overgrown and tree growth has obscured some views from older lookouts.

"Took my dogs here recently and they had a blast. So many easy to follow hiking trails for them to explore. The overlooks are beautiful. Really worth taking your dogs there for some much need exercise and fun time. Great place to release some stress and enjoy the out doors."

Julie Csordas

"Gambrill State Park is an absolute gem nestled in the mountains just outside Frederick, Maryland. From the moment you drive up the winding road to the top, you’re treated to breathtaking scenic views that make you feel worlds away from the hustle and bustle of daily life. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or just looking for a peaceful stroll, the park offers an excellent variety of trails for all skill levels. The well-marked paths wind through lush forests, rocky overlooks, and quiet, shaded areas that are perfect for soaking in nature.

The scenic overlooks—especially the one at High Knob—are a must-see. On a clear day, the panoramic views stretch for miles, offering some of the most stunning vistas in the region. It’s a fantastic spot for photography, a picnic, or just sitting quietly with your thoughts. The park is beautifully maintained, with clean restrooms, picnic areas, and well-kept facilities.

It’s also a great place for families, with plenty of space for kids to explore and enjoy the outdoors. We loved the peaceful atmosphere and the chance to reconnect with nature. Highly recommend for a weekend getaway or a day trip—Gambrill State Park is a true Maryland treasure!"

J J

"There are multiple parking lot areas. Don't just stop at the camping area, drive up the mountain a bit, find the higher lots and see the awesome sights."

JK

What People Like

Breathtaking scenic views
Variety of hiking trails
Dog-friendly environment

What People Dislike

Overgrown trails
Obscured views from trees

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Gambrill State Park is located at 8602 Gambrill Park Road, Frederick, MD 21702. The park is accessible by car, with winding roads leading up to the main areas. TikTok

Generally, Gambrill State Park trails are not very busy on weekdays, especially in the late afternoons. Weekends can be a bit more crowded, particularly the mountain bike trails. Reddit

To reach the best overlooks, drive up the mountain past the camping area and find the higher parking lots. The High Knob area specifically has three stone overlooks close to each other. InstagramReddit

Public transportation options to Gambrill State Park are limited. It is best accessed by private vehicle.

The park offers miles of trails with different difficulty levels. Maps are available at the park, and trails are generally well-marked. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Yes, there is a small parking fee of $3. This fee contributes to the park's maintenance and conservation efforts. Instagram

Gambrill State Park is open from 8 am to sunset from April to October and from 10 am to sunset from November to March. Instagram

No, tickets are not typically required in advance for general park entry. The $3 fee is usually paid upon arrival at designated parking areas.

For specific activities like large group events or certain types of fishing, permits might be required. It's best to check with park management for details.

Yes, the park is generally open on holidays during its regular operating hours. However, it may be busier on these days.

🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience

Popular trails include the Catoctin Trail for a challenging hike and the Black Locust Trail (3 miles) which is rated difficult but rewarding. The park offers a variety of trails for all skill levels. TikTokInstagramReddit

Absolutely! The High Knob area features three stone overlooks with gorgeous views. The park also has picnic tables and grills available. InstagramReddit

Yes, Gambrill State Park is a great place to take your dogs for exercise and fun on its many easy-to-follow hiking trails. Reddit

The park offers trails, overlooks, restrooms, picnic shelters, picnic tables, grills, fishing, and camping. Instagram

It's not uncommon to see wildlife, including black bears, in the central part of Maryland. Be aware of your surroundings. TikTokInstagram

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

There are no restaurants located directly within Gambrill State Park. Visitors typically bring their own food for picnics or dine in nearby Frederick.

Yes, Gambrill State Park has numerous picnic tables and grills available for visitors to enjoy. It's a popular spot for outdoor meals. Instagram

The nearby city of Frederick offers a wide range of dining options, from casual cafes to fine dining restaurants.

There is no concession stand within Gambrill State Park. It's recommended to bring all necessary food and drinks.

Yes, you can cook food in the park using the provided grills at picnic areas. Instagram

📸 📸 Photography

The scenic overlooks, particularly at High Knob, offer stunning panoramic views ideal for landscape photography. The park's natural beauty in spring and fall also provides excellent photo opportunities. Instagram+2

Drone photography is possible, and some creators have captured beautiful aerial shots of the park's autumn foliage. Always check park regulations regarding drone usage. Instagram

Landscape photography, wildlife photography (if you're lucky!), and event photography (like weddings at the Tea Room) are popular. Instagram+2

Generally, personal photography is allowed. However, commercial photography or filming may require permits. Always be respectful of other visitors and the environment.

Sunrise and sunset offer beautiful lighting for landscape shots. Midday can be harsh, but the overlooks still provide great views. Foggy conditions can also create dramatic photographic opportunities. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Gambrill State Park is a fantastic destination for families looking to enjoy the outdoors. The park offers numerous easy-to-follow hiking trails that are perfect for dogs and kids to explore. Reddit While some trails, like the Black Locust Trail, are rated as difficult and can be a challenge for younger children, they offer a rewarding sense of accomplishment upon completion. InstagramReddit The park also provides picnic areas with tables and grills, making it an ideal spot for a family lunch amidst nature. Instagram

For a more relaxed experience, the scenic overlooks offer beautiful views without requiring strenuous hikes, allowing everyone to enjoy the scenery. Instagram Remember to pack plenty of water and snacks, and be prepared for the $3 parking fee. Instagram It's a great place for kids to burn off energy and connect with the natural world.

🐶 Dog Owners

Gambrill State Park is a dog-friendly haven for pet owners. The park features many easy-to-follow hiking trails that are perfect for your furry companions to explore and get much-needed exercise. Reddit Your dogs will likely have a blast sniffing out new scents and enjoying the natural environment. Instagram The overlooks also provide beautiful backdrops for photos with your pets. Instagram Just ensure your dogs are on a leash and that you clean up after them to keep the park enjoyable for everyone. Instagram

📸 Photographers

Photographers will find Gambrill State Park to be a rewarding location. The High Knob overlooks offer expansive panoramic views that are perfect for landscape photography, especially during sunrise and sunset. Instagram+2 The park's natural beauty, particularly during the fall season, provides a stunning palette of colors for photographers. Instagram+1 Don't be afraid to explore during different weather conditions; fog and storms can create dramatic and unique photographic opportunities. Instagram Remember to check park regulations regarding drone usage if you plan on capturing aerial shots. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Exploring Gambrill's Trails

Gambrill State Park boasts a network of trails catering to various skill levels, from leisurely strolls to challenging hikes. The Catoctin Trail is a popular choice for those seeking a more strenuous workout, offering refreshing air and a rewarding experience. TikTok For families looking for an adventure, the Black Locust Trail provides a 3-mile loop rated as difficult, which can be a great challenge for kids who are up for it. InstagramReddit Remember that some trails can be rocky and overgrown, so wearing appropriate footwear is essential. Reddit

Beyond the main hiking trails, the park also offers opportunities for mountain biking, though these trails can get busier on weekends. Reddit Whether you're looking for a short walk to a scenic overlook or a multi-hour trek through the woods, Gambrill State Park has a path for you. Always check trail conditions and be mindful of your surroundings, as wildlife sightings are possible. TikTokInstagram

Capturing the Views: Photography at Gambrill

Gambrill State Park is a photographer's delight, especially for landscape enthusiasts. The High Knob Area is a must-visit, featuring three stone overlooks that provide breathtaking panoramic views of the Frederick and Middletown valleys. Instagram These vistas are particularly stunning during sunrise and sunset, offering dramatic lighting for your shots. Instagram+1

Beyond the overlooks, the park's natural beauty shines through in every season. Autumn foliage transforms the landscape into a vibrant tapestry of colors, making it a prime time for photography. Instagram+1 Even on foggy or stormy days, the park can offer unique and atmospheric photographic opportunities, as one visitor discovered while capturing 'Reveries in the fog.' Instagram While personal photography is generally welcomed, always be mindful of park regulations, especially if you plan to use drones or conduct commercial shoots. Instagram

Planning Your Visit: Practical Tips

To make the most of your trip to Gambrill State Park, a little planning goes a long way. A small parking fee of $3 helps maintain the park's beauty and conservation areas, so be prepared for this modest cost. Instagram For the best experience with fewer crowds, consider visiting on weekdays, particularly in the late afternoons. Reddit This allows for a more peaceful enjoyment of the trails and overlooks. TikTok

When exploring the trails, sturdy footwear is highly recommended due to the rocky and sometimes overgrown terrain. Reddit Don't just stick to the main areas; driving further up the mountain can reveal additional parking lots with spectacular sights. Reddit Finally, remember that Gambrill is a natural habitat, so be aware of potential wildlife sightings, including black bears, and always practice responsible outdoor etiquette. TikTokInstagram

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