Swimming holes are some of the best-hidden spots for summer fun. If you can find one that’s undeveloped, it’s like you’ve stumbled upon an oasis.
Today, we’re sharing about a secret gem in Maryland’s Rocks State Park.
Kilgore Falls doesn’t cascade hundreds of feet to the ground, but it forms a beautiful wading hole that’s surrounded by forests. But arrive early to avoid the crowds and experience this magical place of serenity. Let’s dive in and learn more!
Kilgore Falls is within Maryland’s 855-acre Rocks State Park. In a state not known for epic waterfalls, the 17-foot drop of Kilgore Falls is the second highest in the state. It may not be massive, but it’s still an epic spot to take pictures and enjoy the view.
Adventurers of all ages love this family-friendly spot. However, while it does require a very short hike, anybody can complete it. Unfortunately, because this is a popular spot, the trail can get rather crowded on the weekends during the summer and fall.
If you or your loved ones feel like you’ve seen it before, you might actually have. Scenes from the Disney movie Tuck Everlasting were filmed on location here. It looks as incredible on the big screen as in person.
Pro Tip: You’ll want to add Weverton Cliffs to your itinerary if you’re headed towards the Free State!
Kilgore Falls is somewhat of a hidden gem in northern Maryland.
It’s a magical spot where you can wade at the base or sit underneath the waterfall itself. The land is undeveloped, making it a perfect postcard picture of natural beauty and wonder.
The Falling Branch area of the state park is about five miles north of the main entrance. Kilgore Falls is so popular that you have to get a reservation on weekends and holidays from May 6th through Labor Day. The parking area often fills up even on weekdays. So we suggest getting there early in the morning on the days you don’t need a reservation.
To visit Rocks State Park from I-95, you’ll take exit 77 toward Route 24 North. Once on Route 24, you’ll pass through Bel Air, Rock Spring, and Forest Hill. Once on the other side of Forest Hill, the park is about five more miles.
There are three picnic pavilions located on St. Clair Bridge Road. Once you enter the park, turn left onto St. Claire Bridge Road to access these areas.
To visit Kilgore Falls, you’ll enter the park from Route 24 and turn left onto St. Mary’s Road. After a ½-mile, turn right onto Falling Branch Road. The parking lot will be about 0.2 miles on your right. Remember, to access this part of the park, you need reservations on weekends and holidays from May 6th through Labor Day.
Once you’re parked, find the single-track ½-mile trail to Kilgore Falls. A word of caution about this trail, though. It’s not handicapped accessible, so we don’t recommend anyone in a wheelchair or parents with strollers to try to access the trail.
The out-and-back hike to Kilgore Falls is relatively easy. It’s approximately half a mile and takes about 20 minutes to complete. If you’re looking for peace, you’ll want to come early during the week.
There is a water crossing, so make sure you plan accordingly. The rocks in and around the creek crossing can be very slippery. It’s a good idea to wear appropriate footwear that will provide traction and protection from sharp rocks.
The base of the falls is a fun place to go swimming and cool off, especially during the summer. Some visitors have taken chances and jumped off the rocks into the pool below the falls. Regardless, the park discourages this as there are no lifeguards, and water depths can change quickly. Serious injuries have occurred as a result of these dangerous activities.
Yes, parking passes are required to visit Kilgore Falls on weekends between May 6 and Labor Day. Maryland State Parks opens availability for passes on the Monday before the desired visit. On the other hand, you won’t need to acquire a pass if you’re visiting during the week or outside of this window.
Kilgore Falls Parking is available from 9:00 AM from April through October. But the parking area opens at 10 AM from November through March. Make sure you plan your travels accordingly.
There is no camping permitted at Rocks State Park. Despite this, there is camping at nearby Susquehanna State Park. This Maryland state park is about 30-35 minutes east of Rocks near the Susquehanna River. There are dozens of campsites, but only six offer electricity. The campground is open from April through the last weekend in October.
Closer to I-95 is Bar Harbor RV Park and Marina. It’s about 30-35 minutes southeast of Rocks State Park. This campground offers waterfront, pull-through, and standard campsites with concrete patios and fire rings. All sites are full hookups.
Exploring Kilgore Falls isn’t an all-day activity. As a result, you’ll need to fill the rest of your schedule with other things to do in the area. Here are some great options to consider during your visit to Kilgore Falls.
Havre de Grace is an incredible waterfront city only 26 miles southeast of Kilgore Falls. With under 13,000 residents, this small town is charming. Smithsonian Magazine named it one of the 20 best small US towns to visit in 2014.
Its waterfront location makes it a great place to stroll, enjoy a picnic, and watch the boats sail by. While in town, check out The Lock House Museum. It’s an excellent opportunity to learn about the history of the area and its importance during the War of 1812.
Conowingo Dam is approximately 17 miles from Kilgore Falls. This large hydroelectric dam sits on the Susquehanna River. It’s 53 floodgates control the flow of water into the Chesapeake Bay. Seeing the dam doing its thing is a stunning sight.
The area has become a popular spot for photographers and birding enthusiasts. It’s common to see bald eagles and other birds in the area. They’ll swoop down and grab their next meal straight out of the water.
Susquehannock State Park is a short drive from Kilgore Falls. While you will cross into Pennsylvania, it’ll only take about 30 minutes to get to this 224-acre park. This year-round park is a great spot to enjoy an incredible view of the Lower Susquehanna River. The park has numerous overlooks that provide a phenomenal place to sit and relax.
Popular activities include hiking, picnicking, horse riding, and cross-country skiing. Bring your binoculars and keep your eyes out for wildlife. There’s a good chance you’ll spot hawks, gulls, eagles, swans, and numerous other birds.
The Ma and Pa Trail is a multi-purpose trail formerly occupied by the Maryland & Pennsylvania Railroad. This is a great place to walk, run, or bike in Harford County. Three paths combine to form this 6.25-mile trail. The ultimate goal is to expand it to 10 miles in the future. If you’re looking for a great place to experience the area’s beauty, this is the spot to do it.
Ladew Topiary Gardens is 22 acres of spectacular gardens. You’ll enjoy over 100 topiaries, a one-mile nature walk, and a butterfly house. You should be aware that this is a seasonal activity. The gardens are open from April 1 through October 31 each year.
The property has received recognition and awards from the Garden Club of America. Harvey Ladew received the club’s Distinguished Achievement Award for his gift and talent at creating topiaries. You can enjoy the results of his hard work on a self-guided tour through the property.
A trip to Kilgore Falls can be an exciting adventure. It’s a remarkable spot to explore and spend time, especially during the heat of summer. Nevertheless, this neck of the woods has much to offer besides Kilgore Falls. Whether you’re looking for a weekend getaway or a road trip destination, this is one area to consider.
