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Rocks State Park
4.7 ★★★★★ 1,952 Google reviews · Running trail in Jarrettsville, Maryland · Dawn to dusk
Runner's snapshot
- Surface
- Natural surface
- Distance
- Not reported
- Shape
- Not reported
- Shade
- Not reported
- Access
- Dawn to dusk
Confirmed from Rocks State Park's own listing, the park or land manager's website, and runner reviews. Blank cells mean we could not verify that fact — we would rather say "not reported" than invent one. There is no Easy / Moderate / Hard rating on this page on purpose: a one-word difficulty score tells you nothing about whether a trail suits your run. Surface, distance, shade and hours do.
855-acre park featuring woodlands & large boulder formations, with fishing & tubing in Deer Creek.
What runners say about Rocks State Park
“Nice place with beautiful scenic views, but it could use more work to make the park greener and more picnic-friendly.”
“We took the difficult path up because the trail wasn't well marked which seems to be a MD trail issue.”
“In the late afternoon, the wind in the trees and birdsong is serene and almost hypnotic.”
“The falls are gorgeous and it's a fun family outing for family members of all ages.”
Fun state park lots to do!! They have an awesome kid zone. For young explorers and mini hiking and educational trail just for them.Also be on the lookout for the "Princess seat" We parked at the picnic area. It's very close to king and queen seat. Which is only 1/4 mile walk from the parking lot.
When on Google maps if you want to go to the falls choose Falling Branch Area. Then is a half a mile easy hike to Kilgore Falls. Just keep in mind that if you climb to the top of the falls the rocks that are under water are very slippery up there. Water shoes come in handy.
Huge park with many different trails and a good picnic area. Great for all skill levels and gorgeous scenery all around. The King and Queen’s seat had amazing views and wasn’t too difficult to get to. Also visited Kilgore Falls which was a few miles down the road.
One of the most beautiful places in Northern Maryland for sure. A short, vigorous hike will take you to the King and Queen Seat, which offers incredible views across the countryside. The rock formation is beautiful and great for rappelling (which I have done several times).
Trail conditions & character
“Nice place with beautiful scenic views, but it could use more work to make the park greener and more picnic-friendly.”
“The park is well-kept, but parking can fill up fast on weekendsarrive early if you can.”
“Just keep in mind that if you climb to the top of the falls the rocks that are under water are very slippery up there.”
“They have very nice restrooms and clean picnic and swings area.”
“In the late afternoon, the wind in the trees and birdsong is serene and almost hypnotic.”
“Of course be leery with taking small kids and dogs up on the king/Queen seat as it very rocky and the drop down can be fatal.”
“We took the difficult path up because the trail wasn't well marked which seems to be a MD trail issue.”
Plan your run at Rocks State Park
The practical stuff
- AccessDawn to dusk — the gates close, so do not plan a run that finishes after dark
- SurfaceNatural surface — easiest on the joints and the most fun, but expect roots, rocks and mud after rain
- DistanceNot reported. Trail systems often quote total path mileage rather than a single loop, so measure the route you actually want before you drive out.
- ShadeNot reported. Assume some of it is exposed and carry water in summer.
- At the trailheadparking, restrooms — reported by runners
- Websitednr.maryland.gov
- Phone+1 410-557-7994
- Social Instagram · Facebook
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