Gathland State Park is a public recreation area and historic preserve located on South Mountain near Burkittsville, Maryland, in the United States. The state park occupies the former estate of war correspondent George Alfred Townsend, who wrote under the pen name "Gath" during the American Civil War.
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4.8
(24)
I just LOVE the AT and all it offers!
We hiked the trail from Gathland State Park south toward Harper's Ferry until we reached the Ed Garvey campsite (which is about halfway to HF). We might have bitten off a little more than we could chew, but we're also not in the best shape. The hike was appropriately strenuous (Goldie Locks would have liked it) because it has a rocky terrain and hills, but was also forgiving with downhills and beautiful scenery. We took our dog who thoroughly enjoyed it but was definitely ready to get back in the car when the hike was over. The trail is well-populated and well-marked. The campsite is a respite with shelter and campsites; a very rudimentary "toilet" (but, hey, it's a toilet); and a water source (with about a 0.5-mile trail leading to it, so bring plenty of water with you) making it a great place to refuel and either head back to the car or onwards to a hotel in Harper's Ferry. I think I could hike that trail 100 times and...
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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...
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This is a very pretty place that the Appalachian Trail cuts through. Plenty of parking that is safe. I have taken day hikes from here and camped overnight without worrying about the safety of my car. There is a very nice shelter on the trail for camping it is called the Crampton gap shelter. It is first come first serve and sleeps about 8 people but you might end up sharing it with thru hikers. I usually leave the shelter for them. They have certainly earned it. There are plenty of rustic campsites with fire rings made of rock and some have fixed benches and tent pads. There is also a shelter with a nice fireplace next to the parking lot but it is more for hikers to rest or for picnics. It has plenty of...
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