Gathland State Park
Explore historic buildings and the War Correspondents Memorial Arch at Gathland State Park, a peaceful retreat with Appalachian Trail access.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Pleasant weather, fewer crowds
Gathland State Park
Best Time
Pleasant weather, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore historic buildings and the War Correspondents Memorial Arch at Gathland State Park, a peaceful retreat with Appalachian Trail access.
"A beautiful, peaceful, and historic spot with lovely views and AT access."
🚶♀️ Wear Comfortable Shoes
Trails can be rocky; good footwear is essential for exploring the park's terrain. :athletic_shoe:
💧 Bring Water & Snacks
Perfect for a picnic! Pack refreshments as amenities are limited. :picnic_table:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
War Correspondents Memorial Arch
Central Park Area
A towering monument honoring journalists who covered the Civil War. A must-see for its historical significance and impressive architecture.
Storied Buildings
Throughout the Park
Explore the unique, historic buildings constructed by George Alfred Townsend, offering a glimpse into the past.
Appalachian Trail Access
Park Perimeter
A convenient access point to the famous Appalachian Trail, perfect for hikers looking for a scenic stop.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the History
Accessibility Considerations
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚶♀️ Wear Comfortable Shoes
Trails can be rocky; good footwear is essential for exploring the park's terrain. :athletic_shoe:
💧 Bring Water & Snacks
Perfect for a picnic! Pack refreshments as amenities are limited. :picnic_table:
📸 Capture the History
The War Correspondents Memorial Arch and historic buildings offer great photo opportunities. :camerawithflash:
🗺️ Check Trail Maps
If hiking the AT, familiarize yourself with the route beforehand. :world_map:
Tips
from all over the internet
🚶♀️ Wear Comfortable Shoes
Trails can be rocky; good footwear is essential for exploring the park's terrain. :athletic_shoe:
💧 Bring Water & Snacks
Perfect for a picnic! Pack refreshments as amenities are limited. :picnic_table:
📸 Capture the History
The War Correspondents Memorial Arch and historic buildings offer great photo opportunities. :camerawithflash:
🗺️ Check Trail Maps
If hiking the AT, familiarize yourself with the route beforehand. :world_map:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Gathland State Park for its beautiful, peaceful atmosphere, rich history, and the impressive War Correspondents Memorial Arch. It's a well-maintained spot with access to the Appalachian Trail and picnic facilities. However, some reviewers note that the park's terrain and pathways present accessibility challenges for those with mobility issues.
"Beautiful park with lots of historical buildings and a great monument to war correspondents. This was my rest break on my first section hike of the AT it had a water source and bathrooms so an extra bonus."
dwight lewis
"So pretty. Trails are well kept. A bit rocky on our particular trail but a treasure trove of fungus greeted us along our path. Look forward to visiting this magical spot again 🪷"
Sarah Haller
"I recently visited Gathland State Park for a scenic drive and picnic with my residents.
The park itself is beautiful, peaceful, and offers plenty of parking, which is a big plus. The views are lovely and it’s a great spot if you’re looking for somewhere quiet and historic to enjoy nature.
That being said, the park is not very handicap accessible. Pathways, terrain, and facilities are not designed with mobility limitations in mind, which made it difficult for several members of our group. If you are physically able and have no mobility challenges, this is a wonderful place to explore. But for those who require handicap accessibility, it’s unfortunately not accommodating.
Overall, a beautiful park that’s worth visiting, just be aware of the accessibility challenges before planning your trip."
Mikayla
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Gathland State Park is located in Jefferson, Maryland. It's accessible by car, with ample parking available. Many visitors arrive as part of a scenic drive or a stop along the Appalachian Trail.
Yes, Gathland State Park is relatively close to other natural attractions like the Weverton Cliffs Hike, making it a good stop for a day trip in the Washington County, MD area.
Absolutely! Gathland State Park serves as a convenient access point for the Appalachian Trail, offering a place to rest and resupply for thru-hikers.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Gathland State Park is generally free to enter, making it an accessible historical and recreational destination.
The park is typically open from dawn to dusk. It's always a good idea to check the official Maryland State Parks website for the most current hours of operation.
No advance booking is usually required for general park entry. However, if you plan to reserve a picnic shelter or organize a larger event, you may need to make reservations.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can explore the historic buildings constructed by George Alfred Townsend, visit the impressive War Correspondents Memorial Arch, and access the Appalachian Trail for hiking. It's a peaceful spot for history and nature lovers.
Gathland State Park offers a unique historical experience that can be educational for families. However, be mindful of the terrain if you have very young children or strollers.
Yes, the park provides restrooms and picnic areas, making it a suitable spot for a day trip or a break during a hike.
The park has noted accessibility challenges. Pathways and terrain are not always designed for mobility limitations, which can make exploration difficult for some visitors.
📸 📸 Photography
The War Correspondents Memorial Arch is a prime subject, as are the unique historic buildings. The natural surroundings also offer scenic photo opportunities, especially during the spring and fall.
Drone usage is typically regulated in state parks. It's best to check with the Maryland Department of Natural Resources for specific rules and regulations regarding drone operation at Gathland State Park.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚶 Hikers and AT Thru-Hikers
🏛️ History Enthusiasts
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Legacy of George Alfred Townsend
Townsend's ambition was to create a lasting tribute, and the park's structures reflect his distinctive style. Visitors can wander through these historic buildings, imagining the life and work of journalists during a tumultuous period in U.S. history. The park offers a quiet, reflective atmosphere, allowing visitors to connect with the past in a tangible way. It's a place where history comes alive through its preserved architecture and the stories it holds.
Navigating Gathland State Park: Accessibility and Trails
For hikers, Gathland State Park is a notable point along the Appalachian Trail (AT). This makes it a popular stop for thru-hikers and day-trippers alike. The trails are generally well-maintained, though some sections can be rocky, offering a moderate hiking experience. The park also provides essential amenities like bathrooms and water sources, which are crucial for those undertaking longer treks.
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