Nestled in the heart of Maryland, Kilgore Falls is a breathtaking natural wonder that draws visitors worldwide. With its crystal-clear waters, stunning rock formations, and picturesque surroundings, it’s no wonder why Kilgore Falls is a favorite among locals and tourists alike. Kilgore Falls is a must-see destination whether you’re looking for a peaceful escape or an adventurous day out.
In this blog, I will share information to help you prepare for a fun day of waterfall swimming.
Table of contents
- Safety and Regulation
- About Kilgore Falls
- Hiking the Falling Branch Trail to Kilgore Falls
- Parking at Kilgore Falls
- How to make a reservation to visit Kilgore Falls on the weekend and holidays?
- Things to do Nearby
Safety and Regulation
While Kilgore Falls is a beautiful destination, it’s important to keep safety in mind when visiting. Swimming is allowed at the falls and visitors can swim at their own rick “the swimming hole is not deep”. It’s also important to stay on designated trails and not climb on the rocks or cliffs surrounding the falls. Additionally, you should pack out all trash and follow Leave No Trace principles to help preserve the natural beauty of the area.
About Kilgore Falls
Kilgore Falls, located in Maryland’s Rocks State Park, is a popular destination for hikers and nature enthusiasts. The falls, which cascade down a 17-foot rock face, are surrounded by lush forests and offer stunning views. Please note that reservation is required from Memorial day weekend to Labor day!
🥾About the Trail – Easy
🚗 Getting there – Use this coordinate (39.6899600, -76.4230300)
🚻 Restrooms – I spotted two porta potties by the parking area
🅿️ Parking – Yes, however, parking is very limited to less than 15 vehicles
💰Cost – FREE
🦮Pet Friendly – Yes, please keep your dog on their leash
🧺 Picnic Table – No
👶🏾Stroller Friendly – No
♿️ ADA Accessible – No
💦Waterfall – Yes
🏊🏾♂️ Swimming Allowed – Yes
📶 Phone Service – Poor phone reception once you reached the waterfall area
🚨Emergency Support – No, so do your best to stay safe
Hiking the Falling Branch Trail to Kilgore Falls
The Falling Branch Trail to Kilgore Falls is a moderate 1.2-mile hike (round trip) that takes visitors through the beautiful forests of Rocks State Park. Its took us 15 minutes to complete it one way. The trail is well-marked and features several scenic overlooks along the way. You should wear water shoes and bring plenty of water. To get to the waterfall you will need to cross over a shallow stream. Kilgore Falls is the perfect swimming hole for family with small childrens.
Pro tips: If you are planning to swimming on the waterfalls, its best to visit on a hot day. Kilgore Waterfalls water is very cold and the falls doesn’t get direct contact with the sun. So, this is something to keep in mind!
Parking at Kilgore Falls
Visitors to Kilgore Falls should be aware that parking is limited and fills up quickly, especially on weekends and holidays. If you are planning to visit on a weekend or a holiday, please note that you will need to make a reservation and place your parking permit in your vehicle to avoid towing.
How to make a Reservation to visit Kilgore Falls on the weekends or holidays?
To make a reservation to visit Kilgore Falls on the weekends or holidays, visitors should visit the Maryland Department of Natural Resources website. Reservations can be made up to two weeks in advance and are required for all vehicles entering the park on weekends and holidays. Visitors should print out their parking permits and place them on their dashboards to avoid towing. It’s important to note that there is a fee for parking at Kilgore Falls, and visitors should bring cash or a credit card to pay for their permits. By following these regulations and safety tips, visitors can enjoy the beauty of Kilgore Falls while also preserving the natural environment for future generations.
Things to do Nearby
In addition to hiking and swimming at Kilgore Falls, there are plenty of other activities to enjoy in the surrounding area. Rocks State Park offers over 800 acres of hiking trails, picnic areas, and fishing spots. Below I added three nearby spot that you can check out if you are in the area.
For those looking to explore more of the natural beauty of the area, the Eden Mills Nature Center is a must-visit destination. Located just 8- minutes from Kilgore Falls, the center offers over 100 acres of forests, meadows, and wetlands to explore. Visitors can hike along the trails, go birdwatching, or participate in one of the center’s educational programs. The center also features a butterfly garden and a pond where visitors can observe aquatic life. With its diverse range of habitats and wildlife, the Eden Mills Nature Center is a great place to connect with nature and learn more about the local ecosystem.
For those looking for a more manicured and formal garden experience, the Ladew Topiary Gardens are a must-visit destination. Located just 18 minutes from Kilgore Falls, the gardens feature over 15 acres of meticulously maintained topiary sculptures, fountains, and flower beds. Visitors can stroll along the winding paths and admire the intricate designs of the topiaries, which range from animals to geometric shapes.
For those looking for more outdoor activities, Susquehanna State Park is another nearby destination worth exploring. Located just 35 minutes from Kilgore Falls, the park offers over 2,800 acres of hiking trails, fishing spots, and camping areas. Visitors can hike along the Susquehanna River, explore the historic Rock Run Grist Mill, or take a scenic drive through the park’s rolling hills.
