Parks, Trails and Waterways

Washington County is home to 5 National Parks, 8 State Parks, & 2 Resource Management Areas. 

Our parks offer a range of amenities - everything from historic monuments and battlefields to waterways, with camping, trails, boat launches, and abundant educational opportunities. We also have three Canal Towns along the C&O Canal in Washington County: Hancock, Sharpsburg and Williamsport.  They each offer everything needed for hikers and bikers of the Canal, from nutritious meals, bicycle repairs and bike-friendly places to lay your head.

We invite you to come and learn about our part in the nation's history and to soak in the breath-taking scenery. Discover YOUR America!

Our National Parks: 
A new White House initiative is to get all 4th graders and their families to experience the places that are home to our country’s natural treasures, rich history, and vibrant culture FREE OF CHARGE! Click here for details!

Antietam National Battlefield | Appalachian Trail | Chesapeake & Ohio Canal | Harper’s Ferry National Historic Park ar Maryland Heights | Potomac Heritage National Scenic Trail  (aka “The Nation’s River”) Visit our Potomac River Atlas here.

Our State Parks / Public Lands:
Fort Frederick State Park | Gathland State Park |Greenbrier State Park | Indian Springs Wildlife Management Area | Sideling Hill State Park | South Mountain Battlefield | South Mountain State Park |Washington Monument State Park | Western Maryland Rail Trail | Woodmont Natural Resources Area

Below are links to safety measures and etiquette when utilizing the C&O Canal and any national or state or regional park:
Cycling: https://www.nps.gov/choh/planyourvisit/bicycle.htm.
Hiking: https://www.nps.gov/choh/planyourvisit/hiking.htm
Etiquette: https://candocanal.org/safety/