Cunningham Falls State Park is located in the picturesque Catoctin Mountains. It is divided into two separate but unique areas. The William Houck Area, located three miles west of Thurmont on Route 77, has the lake area, falls and camping area. Leisure opportunities include swimming, hiking, fishing and canoeing. Campsites and camper cabins are available from April until October. The Manor Area off Route 15, three miles south of Thurmont, has the Scales and Tales Aviary, camping and the historic Catoctin Iron Furnace​.

​The expansive forests surrounding these geologic wonders are maturing second growth. Historically, the trees were cut to support charcoal production at the Catoctin Furnace between 1776 to 1903. The Cunningham Falls Natural Area is embedded within the largest contiguous tract of forest remaining in this part of Maryland. Large unbroken forest tracts are critical for a wide variety of species that are otherwise uncommon in the State. These forest-dwelling species include American black bear, bobcat and North American porcupine. The combination of a large forest tract with an extensive boulder field also provides core habitat for the Allegheny Woodrat (Neotoma magister), listed as Endangered in Maryland. The large wooded expanse also supports a wide variety of Forest Interior Dwelling Birds.

​Cell Phone Service: Please do not rely on cell phones for communication while in the park! Many carriers do not get service in the Catoctin Mountains.