Cunningham Falls State Park in Maryland is one of the best day trips in Frederick County — and for good reason. This park is home to one of the most beautiful Maryland waterfalls.
Offering scenic hiking trails, and the family-friendly Hunting Creek Lake, Cunningham Falls offers something for every kind of nature lover.
There’s good reason that Cunningham Falls MD is mentioned in my 11 Outdoor Activities in Frederick, MD article!
Taking a Maryland waterfall day trip is the perfect getaway and quick escape into the outdoors for families out for adventure OR for moms looking for a little peace, quiet, and nature.
Find out how to get to this gorgeous state park, things to do at Cunningham Falls, tips for making the day perfect, and much more.
How to Get to Cunningham Falls State Park from Frederick County, MD
Starting your Cunningham Falls State Park day trip is as easy as jumping on Rt. 15 and heading north for about 18 miles.
You’ll turn left at Pryor Rd, take a left at the dead onto MD-77, and take another left at Catoctin Hollow Rd.
Look for Hunting Creek Lake on your right, then take a right onto William Houck Dr.
Once inside the park, there are a few different parking lots, all of which provide access to the falls, the lake, and numerous trails.
We typically park near the Nature Center. The total drive time from Frederick to Cunningham Falls MD is around 30 minutes.
On weekdays and off-season weekends, the entry fee for the Houck Area of the park is $3 per person.
Memorial Day through Labor Day, the weekend day trip fee is $5 per person.
The park often fills to capacity during holidays and weekends in the summer, so I recommend getting an early start and having a backup plan should the park be closed to additional vehicles by the time you arrive (Catoctin Mountain National Park is a great alternative).
Another option in case of park closure is to backtrack to the Manor Area off Highway 15.
It is cheaper to park here on summer weekends (only $3 per person) and is less busy, but you’ll miss out on the lake and waterfall.
Top Things to Do at Cunningham Falls State Park in Maryland (Hikes, Swimming, Boating and More)
If you’re lucky enough to find a spot in the Houck Area, you’ll have plenty of options for how to spend your day.
Here are a few of my family’s favorite things to do at Cunningham Falls State Park.
By all means, you’ll have plenty of options — from waterfall hikes to swimming in the lake.
Visit Cunningham Falls – Maryland’s Largest Cascading Waterfall
Cunningham Falls, the namesake of this gorgeous park, is home to the largest cascading waterfall in Maryland and is definitely worth the hike to see.
The 78-foot cascade is not only the largest in the park, but one of the top Maryland waterfalls to see.
There are various trail options for reaching the falls, including an easy hike for youngsters and less “trail-ready” explorers.
However you get there, this 78-foot waterfall is not something you want to miss. I recommend checking this activity off early to beat the crowds.
Go Swimming at Hunting Creek Lake in Cunningham Falls State Park
One of my favorite midday activities in Cunningham Falls State Park is to pull up a beach chair on the sandy beach of Hunting Creek Lake and watch my kiddo swim.
The lake is open to swimming Memorial Day through Labor Day with a lifeguard on duty from 11 am to 6 pm.
There are some shaded picnic tables, but they fill up fast, so I recommend packing beach chairs, an umbrella, and a lounging blanket.
Boating and Fishing at Cunningham Falls State Park
If you’re looking to spend a relaxing day on the water, Cunningham Falls State Park offers plenty of opportunities for boating and fishing — especially in the scenic Hunting Creek Lake.
Boating:
Canoes, kayaks, and paddleboards are welcome on the lake.
You can bring your own or rent boats seasonally from the concession stand in the Houck Area.
Gas-powered boats aren’t allowed, so the water stays calm and peaceful — perfect for paddling and soaking in the mountain views.
Fishing:
Mentioned in my Best Fishing Spots in Frederick MD list, Hunting Creek Lake is regularly stocked with trout and is also home to bass, bluegill, and catfish.
A Maryland fishing license is required for anyone over the age of 16, and you can fish from the shoreline or from a non-motorized boat.
The lake is catch-and-release friendly, but be sure to follow Maryland’s fishing regulations.
Pro Tip: Early morning and late evening tend to be the best times for Hunting Creek Lake activities like fishing, and weekdays mean fewer boats on the water.
Explore the Best Cunningham Falls Hiking Trails
Whether you’re an avid hiker looking for a challenge or more of a take-it-easy type with toddlers in tow, the Cunningham Falls hiking trails offer something for everyone.
Here are a few I recommend checking out:
- Lower Trail (1 mile out and back) – Easy to moderate trail with benches along the way. This is the quickest way to get to the falls.
- Cliff Trail (1.5 miles out and back) – Strenuous with some minor rock climbing. After ¾ of a mile, the trail ends at the falls.
- Cat Rock Trail (3 miles out and back) – One of the most challenging Cunningham Falls hiking trails, but worth it for the view, is Cat Rock Trail.This hike is very strenuous with a lot of elevation gain right off the trailhead.
- Iron Trail (½ mile out and back) – This easy self-guided trail leads to the Catoctin Furnace Historical Village and is accessible only from the Manor Area side of the park.
You can view the full trail map here.
Picnic or Grill at Cunningham Falls State Park
Another one of the most relaxing things to do at Cunningham Falls is enjoy a picnic by the lake.
Both the Manor Area and Houck Area have picnic tables and grills for day use.
However, they are first come, first served, so arrive early to stake your spot.
Also, be sure to pack charcoal and clean up when you are finished.
An easier approach is to pack a picnic and spread out your blanket by Hunting Creek Lake for a scenic lunch. Or under the canopy of towering trees along one of the trails.
Wildlife Watching at Cunningham Falls State Park
Whether hiking, picnicking, or swimming, keep an eye out for all the amazing wildlife Cunningham Falls State Park has to offer.
Look for deer, turtles, raccoons, turkey vultures, and eagles.
And keep an extra close eye out for snakes on the trails.
Also, be aware that there are black bears in the park.
However, you are unlikely to see any bears during peak hours due to the crowds.
Best Time to Visit Cunningham Falls State Park in Maryland
The best time to visit Cunningham Falls State Park really depends on what you want to do. Each season has its own charm, but knowing when to go can make your trip even better.
- Spring (March–May) – Water levels are at their peak from melting snow and spring rains, so the waterfall is especially powerful. The hiking trails are less crowded, and wildflowers start to bloom.
- Summer (June–August) – Perfect for swimming at Hunting Creek Lake and enjoying picnics. This is the park’s busiest season, so plan to arrive early—especially on weekends and holidays—to secure parking.
- Fall (September–November) – Cooler temperatures make hiking more comfortable, and the surrounding Catoctin Mountain forest bursts with fall foliage.
- Winter (December–February) – While some facilities may be closed, winter offers peaceful trails, frozen waterfall views, and fewer visitors. Dress warmly and check trail conditions before you go.
Pro Tip: If you want fewer crowds no matter the season, visit on a weekday morning. Early arrivals also have the best chance for parking in the popular Houck Area near the lake and waterfall.
Tips for Planning the Perfect Day Trip to Cunningham Falls State Park
A Cunningham Falls State Park day trip is an easy way to entertain the family or unwind, as long as you come prepared.
Here are a few tips to help facilitate a smooth, fun-filled trip.
- Don’t forget to pack:
- Water bottles
- Snacks
- Lunch
- Bug spray
- Swimsuits
- Extra clothes for youngsters
- Sunscreen
- Beach chairs
- An umbrella
- A cooler (no alcohol allowed)
- A beach blanket
- Beach and swimming toys
- Hats
- Hiking shoes
- Take a break at the playground. There are playgrounds located at both the Houck and Manor Areas, perfect for wearing out younger kids before the drive home.
- Print out nature scavenger hunts for the kids. These are a great way to keep kids of all ages entertained and engaged during hikes.
- Make reservations ahead of time. For larger groups, consider reserving the picnic shelter at the Manor Area, and for overnight trips, don’t forget to make your campsite reservations early, especially for summer. Learn more here.
- Don’t rely on your cell phone. There is very little cell service in the park so be sure to discuss meetup plans with friends and family before setting off.
FAQs About Visiting Cunningham Falls State Park
How much does it cost to get into Cunningham Falls State Park?
Entry fees vary by season and area. For the Houck Area (closest to the lake and waterfall), weekdays and off-season weekends cost $3 per person. From Memorial Day through Labor Day, weekend and holiday rates are $5 per person. The Manor Area is usually $3 per person year-round and is less crowded.
How long is the hike to Cunningham Falls?
The quickest way to reach Cunningham Falls is via the Lower Trail, which is about 1 mile round trip and rated easy to moderate. The more challenging Cliff Trail is 1.5 miles round trip and involves some rock scrambling.
Can you swim at Cunningham Falls State Park?
Yes! Swimming is allowed at Hunting Creek Lake in the Houck Area from Memorial Day through Labor Day. Lifeguards are on duty daily from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. during the summer season.
Is Cunningham Falls State Park dog-friendly?
Yes, leashed dogs are welcome in most areas of Cunningham Falls State Park, including the hiking trails and picnic areas. However, pets are not permitted on the sandy portion of the swimming beach during the summer season.
Are there bathrooms at Cunningham Falls State Park?
Yes. Restrooms are available in both the Houck and Manor Areas. Facilities near the lake, trails, and picnic areas are open during the main season, while winter access may be limited.
Your Next Favorite Memory Starts at Cunningham Falls State Park
A Cunningham Falls State Park day trip is the perfect summer activity for the whole family.
And since this amazing destination is only 30 minutes from Frederick, it’s an easy option, whether you’re planning in advance or feeling spontaneous.
Ready for your next adventure?
Plan your day trip to Cunningham Falls State Park today — hike to Maryland’s largest waterfall, swim in Hunting Creek Lake, and make memories just minutes from Frederick.
Enjoy a day well spent at Cunningham Falls State Park in Frederick County, Maryland.
For more local day trip ideas, click on over to:
10+ Beaches Near Frederick, MD
Soak City Water Park at Kings Dominion
11 Ski Resorts Near Frederick, MD
