Cunningham Falls State Park Campground

About

Cunningham Falls State Park sits in Frederick County within the Catoctin Mountains, offering two distinct camping experiences. The William Houck Area, located three miles west of Thurmont on Route 77, provides access to a 43-acre lake with swimming beach, boat rentals, and the park's famous 78-foot cascading waterfall. This area operates seasonally from April through October with 106 non-electric sites, 36 electric sites, and 4 six-person mini cabins spread across multiple loops including Addison Run, Bear Branch, Catoctin Creek, Deer Spring Branch, and Elderberry. The Manor Area, accessible from Route 15 three miles south of Thurmont, operates year-round and features 20 basic sites and 7 electric sites near the Catoctin Iron Furnace historic site and scales and tales aviary. During spring and summer, the Manor bathhouse provides flush toilets and hot showers, while winter campers have access to portable restrooms only. Winter camping requires self-sufficiency as sites are not plowed and access cannot be guaranteed during inclement weather. All campsites feature stone dust pads measuring 23 by 23 feet with a picnic table, fire ring, and lantern post. Centrally located bathhouses serve each camping loop, and potable water spigots are available throughout. A dump station at the William Houck campground exit serves both areas during the April through October season. The park frequently reaches capacity on weekends and holidays, so early arrival is recommended.

Directions

William Houck Area is located three miles west of Thurmont on Route 77. Manor Area is three miles south of Thurmont off Route 15.