cunningham falls state park

We used to go there every Father's Day. Picnic and a lake - great day for all of the cousin's and all of the family. There are a couple of geocaching sites littered around the park so if you are into wandering around hunting for different surprises in the park - knock it out. Of course the highlight is climbing on the rocks at the falls - been doing this since I was a kid. If you have never been - you must get all the way to the top - where the stream feeds the falls. Great times - always!!

It was very quiet and peaceful at this time of year. The changing of the leaves are gorgeous. Not a lot of people in the area during this time which is fortunate if you don't want the crowds and noises. Also, limited in amenities if you require food or beverage. Restrooms however, were still open.The forested area was still very lush and green, however the falls were minimal in flow.I was only there on a day excursion, but fell compelled to return again and enjoy camping and exploring the area further.

Personally, I would never visit the sad example of a lake they have going on there, but the falls are very nice! They're the perfect summer spot for my own friends, but my niece always enjoys herself, too. After trekking through the trails in the heat of summer, it is such a relief to dip your toes in the water. Despite frequent visits, the water quality remains very pure (I've checked out the macro-organisms living both above and below the falls). When climbing up the falls, please be careful. I have (more than once) tumbled from the top to the bottom. During a recent trip, I actually had to rush to the ER in Waynesboro & receive 5 stitches. Of course, clumsy me didn't fall while I was actually climbing the falls. No, I fell on dry land. Either way, be careful. I can't say it enough.

We visited here after the Cacotin Zoo (separate review) and the admission was on the honor system. We popped our dollars into the box and went to the parking lot. It is a few yards' walk uphill to the visitor's center where there are some interactive natural exhibits and a full sized stuffed black bear displayed in a glass box. Outside, there is a small aviary with examples of some owls and small hawks in it. The trail that we wanted to walk was closed that day so we only spent about a half hour in the park.

This park is great in every season but it is great in the fall the foliage can be spectacular. There are the Falls of course, always a big draw. Hiking and a variety of activities are available. Well maintained. Just off route 15 between Frederick and Gettysburg.

The lower Falls trail is just under 3 miles round trip and not overly eventful on it's way to the falls. While scenic, I would recommend them if you are in the area or a waterfall lover. The trail ends with less than picturesque view of the falls so you will have to take the liberty as most do to venture off the trail at the end if you would like to gain a better view of the falls.

We have a 5 year old and a 2 year old and wanted to take them to the beach for a day without having to drive too far. This was perfect! It's about 1 1/2 hours from Fairfax, VA. We did a little research and found that the beach had a "no swimming" policy after Labor Day. I called the park and they said that is the policy but if they don't see it.... So, we decided to take a chance. When you get there, go towards the William Houck Area (or the lake depending on the sign). I read about different fees, but if you just enter this area for swimming, it's a $3/car fee for MD residents and $5/car fee for everyone else. There are 3 beach areas. We took the first turn into the beach that had the playground. It was perfect because this side of the lake actually offers a little shade on the beach. My kids never even used the playground because they had so much fun in the sand and water. Yes, water! It was not crowded, but everyone was swimming. So great because the water is shallow and a nice temperature. There are areas where the seaweed has built up, but it's mostly by the boat area, so it can easily be avoided. Because it is off season, the shower/changing house is closed. There are other restrooms close by, but only one handicapped stall you could change in on the women's side. The foot/body shower is located at the shower house and that is still functioning. We will definitely go again!

Nice walking trails to Falls. Nice Lake w/ swimming beach, canoes, & paddle boats.Trash-Free zone. NO Trash Cans! Must take it with you.NO Alcohol!

The lake and beach area are so clean! It is so nice to be able to sit back and enjoy a lovely day. There is a nice play area and a grassy area for the kids to run around in when they don't want to be in the water. They have a snack bar. Shower and bathroom facilities are available as well!

The hike to the falls takes one through a lush and beautiful area. There are three trails to the falls: two from a parking lot near the lake and one from a wheelchair accessible boardwalk from the main road. We tried the more strenuous (and more beautiful) hike, which takes you up and through a series of boulders before dumping you down to the same viewing platform as the less strenuous (but enjoyable) trail. The destination is incredibly disappointing, not because the falls aren't beautiful, but rather because the "viewing platform" seems to have been built in a spot where the waterfall is as obscured from view as possible (trees in the way). The result is that one is forced to choose whether to obey the large number of park signs/warnings saying to stay on the trail and not cross the stream, or not be able to get a view of the whole reason you hiked there in the first place. We were told the view was much better from the boardwalk hike, but it is not as interesting a walk. Very poorly designed end-trail/platform by the park service in my opinion that basically is self-defeating in the end. I have this 4 stars because the hike is lovely (if disappointing) and the nearby lake is delightful for the kids.

Cunningham Falls State Park is a relaxing environment. We had a family picnic, played cards under a shade tree and watched our granddaughter climb and slide at the playground, and played Frisbee. Then we walked half a mile through a beautiful forest to the waterfall. It was a very relaxing afternoon.

The value for your entry fee is great. The lake and picnic area is beautiful and the life guards are great. We go here any chance we get and stay all day. Bring water and land toys. On the south beach there is a great green area to play soccer or catch while one takes a break from swimming.

It costs $7/ person to see the Falls. With a car of 4, that is $28 to look at the Falls. Not worth it. We just traversed The Smokies seeing much better falls all for $0 park entrance fees. Other StTe Parks charge about $5/car. Ridiculous.

Lovely outside of the park area or go into the reserved area and have a picnic. Many hiking trails and water. Wonderful fly fishing.

This has become our favorite "get away for a day" location- only 65 minutes from Baltimore. We love to arrive early and get a picnic table with barbeque right on the lake. There are boats available for rent, or bring your own. Nice little beach, and of course, the hike up to the falls which is great. The best part is the drive once you exit Rte 15 and follow the twisting road up the mountain. It is so beautiful, well kept, and offers so much for the family.