Parks

A challenging hike leads to Chimney Rock, the most popular vista in the park.

President Franklin D. Roosevelt created programs to give people a chance to rebuild their lives from the Great Depression. The Works Progress Administration and the Civilian Conservation Corps gave this land a second opportunity and through re-growth, a new role as a recreation area.

Map showing location of park.

Catoctin Mountain Park announces temporary closures September 18 - 20, 2026

2026-09-17

Thurmont, Md. – Due to increased security measures, portions of Catoctin Mountain Park will be closed from approximately 5 p.m. on Friday, September 18. Closures are scheduled to continue through approximately 8 p.m. on Sunday, September 20, 2026.

Children hold hands as they roller skate around the rink at Anacostia Park Skating Pavilion during the park’s Late Skate program in Washington, D.C., on June 28, 2025.

Celebrate America’s Story in the National Capital Area During National Park Week, August 22-30

2026-08-21

The National Park Service is excited to welcome visitors to celebrate National Park Week from Saturday, August 22 through Sunday, August 30, as dozens of sites across the region mark the 2026 theme, “Celebrate America’s Story,” highlighting the 250th anniversary of American independence and recognizing our shared American heritage of national parks.

Catoctin Mountain Park announces temporary closures August 8 – 16, 2026

2026-08-06

Thurmont, Md. – Due to increased security measures, portions of Catoctin Mountain Park will be closed at approximately 8:00 a.m. on Saturday, August 8. Closures are scheduled to continue through approximately 8:00 p.m. on Sunday, August 16, 2026.

Catoctin Mountain Park announces temporary closure July 31, 2026

2026-07-30

Thurmont, Md. – Due to increased security measures, portions of Catoctin Mountain Park will be closed from approximately 7:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. on Friday, July 31.

Catoctin Mountain Park announces temporary closures June 19 - 21, 2026

2026-06-18

Thurmont, Md. – Due to increased security measures, portions of Catoctin Mountain Park will be closed from approximately noon on June 19, 2026. Closures are scheduled to continue through approximately 8 p.m. on Sunday, June 21.