Park Details

Name:	Gathland State Park
Address:	900 Arnoldstown Rd
	Jefferson
	Maryland
	21755
Phone:	301-791-4767
URL:	http://www.dnr.state.md.us/publiclands/western/gathland.html

Category

• State park or recreation area managed by a state agency

General Description

Gathland State Park was once the mountain home of the George Alfred Townsend, a Civil War journalist. It is the site of a unique collection of buildings and structures that he designed and constructed, some of which have been restored. A large, stone monument - the War Correspondents Arch - is an outstanding attraction at this day use park. The Appalachian Trail traverses the park and passes the monument base. Maryland has 41 miles of the interstate hiking trail. he park includes all of Crampton''s Gap, which was the southern most gap fought over during the battle of South Mountain. Fought September 14, 1862, it was the first major battle of the Civil War fought in Maryland.

There are ongoing interpretive programs throughout the summer featuring Civil War re-enactors. The annual "Living History" weekend always occurs the first weekend after Labor Day and portrays various aspects of the soldiers'' life including infantry, cavalry, and artillery demonstrations.

Accessibility Features

General Accessibility Features

• Accessible viewing areas or outlooks
• Accessible picnic tables/areas

Amenities and Lodging

• No accessible amenities and lodging

Information and Interpretation Features

• Nature centers, visitor centers and/or museums that are accessible for people using mobility devices
• Exhibits located on accessible routes