Gathland State Park - map and other informations

Gathland State Park is a beautiful and historic park located in Burkittsville, Maryland. It was established in 1949 and covers an area of approximately 200 acres. The park is named after George Alfred Townsend, a famous journalist and author who lived in the area during the late 19th century.

History

The park is home to several historic structures that were built by George Alfred Townsend. One of the most notable structures is the War Correspondents Arch, which was erected in honor of journalists who covered the Civil War. The arch features inscriptions and plaques dedicated to various war correspondents.

In addition to the arch, there are also several other historic buildings within the park, including a stone farmhouse that was once owned by Townsend. Visitors can explore these buildings and learn more about the history of the area.

Activities

Gathland State Park offers a variety of activities for visitors to enjoy. One popular activity is hiking, as there are several trails that wind through the park's wooded areas and offer stunning views of the surrounding countryside.

The Appalachian Trail also passes through Gathland State Park, making it a popular spot for hikers looking to take on a section of this famous trail. The park provides access to a portion of the trail known as "The Roller Coaster," which offers challenging terrain and breathtaking views.

In addition to hiking, visitors can also enjoy picnicking at one of the park's many picnic areas or fishing in its streams. There are also open fields where visitors can play sports or fly kites.

Facilities

Gathland State Park offers several facilities for visitors to use during their visit. There are picnic tables and grills available for use at various locations throughout the park, making it easy to enjoy a meal outdoors. There are also restroom facilities located near the picnic areas.

The park has a visitor center where visitors can learn more about the history of the area and pick up trail maps and other information. The visitor center also has exhibits on display that showcase the life and work of George Alfred Townsend.

Getting There

Gathland State Park is located in Burkittsville, Maryland, which is approximately 60 miles northwest of Washington, D.C. The park is easily accessible by car via Route 17 or Route 67. There is ample parking available for visitors.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about Gathland State Park