Last updated: April 5, 2021
Thing to Do
Picnic Areas
NPS Photo/John Zuke
Both the Owens Creek and Chestnut Picnic Areas provide tranquil locations for people to gather under the trees to eat and relax. Both areas also are ideal locations to start hikes within the park. Many parking areas, such as the Visitor Center secondary parking area, the Thurmont Vista Parking Area, and the Hog Rock Parking Area, also offer several tables for folks to enjoy a home brought snack.
Details
Activity
Picnicking
Want to grill and maybe take a hike afterwards? The Chestnut Picnic Area and the Owens Creek Picnic Area have many grills waiting for you. Both picnic areas are ideal places to begin hiking in the park.
Pets Allowed
Yes
Pets must be on a leash at all times.
Activity Fee
No
Admission to the park is FREE, but for those who qualify, Senior Passes, Military Passes, Access Passes, and Every Kid in a Park passes are available at the visitor center.
Location
Picnic Areas
The Chestnut Picnic Area is 2.5 miles north of the Visitor Center on Park Central Road. Provides trail access: Spicebush Trail, Catoctin National Recreational Trail, and Horse Trail. Restroom facilities (flush toilets, seasonal). Map and bulletin boards. Multiple picnic tables and above ground grills. May temporarily close due to winter weather and/or icy road conditions.
The Owens Creek Picnic Area is along Foxville-Deefield Road. Provides trail access: Brown's Farm Trail, Horse Trail, Deerfield Nature Trail, and the Catoctin National Recreational Trail. Vault Toilet (seasonal). Map and bulletin board. May temporarily close due to winter weather and/or icy road conditions.
Reservations
No
Picnic Areas are open to the public on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Season
Spring, Summer, Fall
The Picnic Areas are open seasonally dependent on weather.
Time of Day
Day
The park is open daily from dawn until dusk.
Accessibility Information
The Chestnut Picnic Area is wheelchair accessible.