Cunningham Falls and Gambrill: April Events and More

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Banner: Cunningham Falls
furnace

Saturdays and Sundays: Museum of the Ironworker
10 a.m. - 2 p.m.
12610 Catoctin Furnace Road, Thurmont

Learn about the workers who built the historic village and powered the Catoctin Furnace. Exhibits include amazing façade reconstructions and an innovative "under the floorboards" archaeology feature. Free of charge.


archery

Saturday, April 15 and Saturday, April 22: Beginner Archery
4 - 6 p.m.
Manor Area of Cunningham Falls 
6709 Cunningham Falls Park Road, Thurmont, MD 21788

Join Frederick County staff for an archery lesson for beginners. For ages 8 and older; participants under 18 must be accompanied by an adult. All equipment will be provided. Cost is $5 per person (cash only) in addition to park entrance fees of $3 per Maryland vehicle and $5 per out-of-state vehicle. Closed-toe shoes are recommended. Manor Area Archery Range is located across street from Manor Area Playground Parking Lot.

Participants must RSVP to Don at 301-514-5866 the day before the program. Time slots start every half hour from 4 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. 


volunteering

Friday, April 21: Earth Day Volunteer Event
9 a.m. - noon
at Cunningham Falls State Park

Spend your day giving back! Celebrate Earth Day helping park staff beautify the park by picking up trash and putting  native plants in the ground. RSVP required to get location and details on what to wear and bring to claudia.padilla@maryland.gov.


spring beauties

Sunday, April 23: Wildflower Walk at Cunningham
10 a.m.
Meet at the Manor Area Playground Parking Lot 
6709 Cunningham Falls Park Rd. Thurmont, MD 21788 

Join Maryland Master Naturalist Ray to take a walk and discover native spring species of wildflowers in the park.


jack in the pulpit

Saturday, April 29: Pollinator Gardens
10 a.m.
Meet at the Manor Area Visitor Center
6709 Cunningham Falls Park Rd. Thurmont MD 21788

Have you ever considered starting a pollinator garden, but don’t know where to start? Learn why pollinator gardens of any size can be transformative, how to navigate the confusing world of plant retail nurseries, and how to start a garden of your own. A resource information guide will be provided.


sun

First Saturday of Each Month: Solar Viewing at the Lake Next date: May 6
2-5 p.m. at South Beach Parking Lot
14274 William Houck Drive, Thurmont, MD 21788

Check out the active sunspots on our favorite star with members of the Westminster Astronomical Society. Rain cancels program. Event free with park entrance fees.


astronomy

First Saturday of Each Month: Night Sky
Next date: May 6
9 - 11 p.m. at Dam Overlook Parking Lot
14372 Catoctin Hollow Road, Thurmont, MD 21788

Join the Westminster Astronomy Society to view the night sky with experienced astronomers. Weather-dependent program.


Banner: Gambrill

forestry board

Fourth Friday Forest Walk
Friday, April 28 from 10-11:30 a.m.
Meet at the Gambrill State Park Trailhead Lot 

Join the Frederick Forestry Board for a guided tree-walk along the red trail of Gambrill State Park. During this guided walk through the forest, a Forestry Board member will explain forest ecosystems, succession, and tree identification, and will answer your questions. Please be aware that there are steep and rough terrain sections of the trail. Register on the Forestry Board website to receive detailed location instructions. 


tea room

Wednesday, April 5: Tea Room Open House
4-7 p.m. at the Gambrill State Park Tea Room
8346 High Knob Road, Frederick, MD 21702

The Tea Room is a rustic building constructed by the Civilian Conservation Corps in the 1930s. The facility accommodates 55 people and remains a popular venue for events including baby showers, business meetings, family reunions, and weddings. Whether you wish to hold an event or are just curious about the space, all are welcome to this open house event. No RSVP necessary. Next date: Sunday, May 7 from 4 - 7pm.


Unless otherwise noted, events are held rain or shine, free and fun for all ages; donations are always welcome. Children under 10 must be accompanied by an adult.

Dress for the weather/activity, wear sunscreen and insect repellent, bring plenty of water and snacks, and check for ticks.

Please call 301-271-3676 for additional information or to register.

Cunningham Falls staff also manages Gambrill State Park.


Image of Project Butterfly and Bumblebee icon

Save Our Pollinators!

Donate today to support butterfly and bumblebee
habitat and education in state parks! 

Donations in any amount are a helpful way to make a difference. Thank you!


Three photos of people enjoying parks year round

Annual Pass Available for Purchase
$75 for Marylanders; $100 for out-of-state visitors

Our annual State Parks and Trails Passport grants unlimited day-use admission and boat launching at state parks, and a 10 percent discount on state-operated concessions and boat rentals. 

To enhance convenience and value, this year's pass will arrive in a self-contained packet with a detachable hang-tag, and will be valid for a full year from the month of purchase. 

Our network of 75 state parks include more than 900 miles of trails for biking, hiking and horseback riding, as well as unique water access and camping facilities.

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