Catoctin Mountain Park
Catoctin Mountain Park lies within the mountainous area known as the Blue Ridge Province. This 5,810-acre hardwood forest park with its refreshing streams and scenic vistas, offers a rare haven in a rapidly developing area of the country.
Mixed hardwood forest covers nearly 95% of the park. Catoctin Mountain Park is also part of a larger forested public lands complex that includes Cunningham Falls State Park, Frederick and Thurmont Watersheds, and Gambrill State Park. Many plants and animals, including several Maryland Threatened and Endangered species, thrive within this forest sanctuary. The high gradient streams, Big Hunting Creek and Owens Creek, run clean and support healthy populations of brown and brook trout. Catoctin Mountain Park is a very diverse place that offers respite to the plants and animals that depend on its existence. Its peaceful environment also provides a needed escape from the everyday hustle and bustle of city life for all people, including, on occassion, the President of the United States.
Location: Catoctin Mountain Park is located in Thurmont, Maryland. Field Studies are conducted at Whiskey Still Run.
- Field Studies available: Exotic Invaders, Don’t Get Sedimental, Water Canaries, Watershed Watchdogs
- Habitat: Thick forest
- Terrain: Slightly rocky at field study location
- Facilities: Restrooms at visitor center, small classroom space available
For more information on Catoctin Mountain Park, including directions, visitor information and hours of operation, visit their official website at www.nps.gov/cato/.